GIS 10 MA/018: Redesigned Form I-551, Lawful Permanent Resident Card (Green Card), and Form I-766, Employment Authorization Document and Fee Schedule

The purpose of this General Information System (GIS) message is to advise local departments of social services (LDSS) that on May 11, 2010, the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) began issuing a redesigned Form I-551, Lawful Permanent Resident card ("Green Card"), and Form I-766, Employment Authorization Document (EAD). The redesign of these forms is part of USCIS' ongoing effort to deter immigration fraud.

Form I-551, Lawful Permanent Resident card ("Green Card")

State-of-the-art technology incorporated into the production of the new "Green Card" prevents counterfeiting, obstructs tampering and facilitates quick and accurate authentication. In keeping with the Lawful Permanent Resident Card's nickname, it will now be colored green for easy recognition. Some existing I-551 "Green Cards" bear an expiration date, while others have no expiration date. USCIS plans to replace "Green Cards" already in circulation as individuals apply for renewal or replacement.

The following continue to be acceptable forms of documentation of lawful permanent resident status for Medicaid benefits purposes: 1) an existing or new "Green Card"; 2) a "Green Card" with or without an expiration date; and 3) an expired "Green Card". (See 04-OMM/ADM-07.)

The USCIS number is the same as the alien registration number, commonly known as the "A" number, but without the "A" prefix. The USCIS number or alien registration number is also listed on the back of the redesigned "Green Card" (e.g., A# 000-000-000).

The "A" number for an individual will not change when a new card is issued, but it may be referred to as either an "USCIS number", "alien registration number" or "alien number".

When providing the "A" number to USCIS, either through answering a query or requesting a benefit, the LDSS should include the prefix "A" in front of the digits.

Finally, a preprinted return address enables the quick and easy return of a lost card to USCIS.

Form I-766, Employment Authorization Document (EAD)

The Employment Authorization Document (EAD), or Form I-766, was redesigned to incorporate the addition of a machine-readable zone on the back of the card.

The machine-readable zone is compliant with International Civil Aviation Organization standards. USCIS also removed the two-dimensional bar code on the backside of the card and moved the informational box of text beneath the magnetic stripe on the card. The revised card retains all of its existing security features.

Information on proposal to increase fee schedule

The proposal, posted to the Federal Register on June 9, 2010, for public viewing, would increase the fee for all immigration benefit applications and petitions, but would not increase the fee for the naturalization application.

For further information visit: http://www.uscis.gov and click on "News".