As a Lawful Permanent Resident (LPR) in the United States, there are instances where you might need official confirmation of your immigration status from the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). This is where the ADIT stamp comes into play.
What is an ADIT Stamp?
An ADIT stamp, short for Alien Documentation, Identification, and Telecommunication, also known as the I-551 stamp, serves as temporary evidence of an individual’s lawful permanent resident status in the United States. This stamp is typically affixed to a passport or an I-94 card and is used when a permanent resident card (Green Card) is unavailable. The ADIT stamp allows the holder to travel internationally and re-enter the U.S. without issue, work legally, and enjoy other benefits of permanent residency while awaiting their official Green Card.
When is an ADIT Stamp Necessary?
Despite recent USCIS policy changes that have reduced the need for ADIT stamps, there are still specific situations where obtaining one is necessary. For instance, if you are a U.S. permanent resident with an expired I-90 Application receipt notice, you will need an ADIT stamp to prove your status. Similarly, conditional permanent residents with expired I-751 or I-829 Petition receipt notices require the ADIT stamp. Additionally, if you have not received your Green Card, have lost it, or need it replaced after filing forms I-90, I-751, or I-829 and do not have a physical card to present, the ADIT stamp is essential. This stamp is temporary proof of your lawful status, allowing you to travel, work, and access other benefits without interruption. When an ADIT Stamp is Not Required
An ADIT stamp is not needed if
An ADIT stamp is unnecessary if your USCIS Receipt Notice extension is still valid and you have expired cards, as the receipt notice serves as proof of your continued lawful permanent resident status. Additionally, suppose you have a pending N-400 naturalization application filed on or after December 12, 2022, at least six months before your Green Card’s expiration. In that case, you are granted a 24-month extension of your lawful permanent resident (LPR) status. This extension, noted on your receipt notice, is sufficient evidence of your status, eliminating the need for an ADIT stamp. These provisions help streamline the process and reduce the need for additional documentation during the transition period.
How to Obtain an ADIT Stamp
You need to schedule an appointment through the USCIS Contact Center to obtain an ADIT stamp. During this appointment, an immigration officer will evaluate your eligibility for the stamp based on your specific circumstances and documentation. If you qualify, the officer will issue the stamp directly onto your passport or provide it on Form I-94. In some cases, if an in-person appointment isn’t necessary, the USCIS field office may send you a Form I-94 with the ADIT stamp, DHS seal, and your photo from the USCIS database by mail. This process ensures you have temporary evidence of your lawful permanent resident status while waiting for your official Green Card.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the ADIT stamp is a vital tool for Lawful Permanent Residents (LPRs) in the United States, offering temporary proof of legal residency when a Green Card is unavailable. Whether you are awaiting the issuance of a new card, dealing with a lost or stolen card, or have expired documentation, the ADIT stamp ensures you can continue to travel, work, and access essential services without interruption. Understanding the specific circumstances that necessitate an ADIT stamp and the process to obtain it is crucial for maintaining compliance with U.S. immigration regulations. LPRs can effectively manage their status and avoid potential complications by staying informed and proactive.
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Citations
- US CBP ADIT Stamp Memo July 1, 2014
- USCIS Announces Additional Mail Delivery Process for Receiving ADIT Stamp
- USCIS Extension of LPR for Naturalization December 9, 2022
- USCS Form I-90 Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card (Green Card)
- USCIS Form I-751 Petition to Remove Conditions on Residence
- USCIS Form I-829 Petition to Remove Conditions by Investor
- USCIS Form N-400 Application for Naturalization
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