The United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has officially invalidated three older versions of the alien registration card, commonly known as the Green Card. Foreign nationals holding these legacy formats must replace them with the current version to maintain lawful permanent resident status.
Three Green Card Versions No Longer Valid
According to USCIS, the following card versions are no longer recognised under current immigration rules: Form AR-3, Form AR-103, and Form I-151. These are outdated formats of the Green Card, and their continued use is not acceptable for immigration purposes in the United States.
The announcement affects thousands of foreign nationals who still possess these legacy cards. USCIS has made it mandatory for holders to replace them, as only the current Green Card version serves as valid proof of lawful permanent resident status.
What Green Card Holders Must Do
Foreign nationals holding any of the three listed card versions are required to apply for a replacement through USCIS. The agency has clarified that failing to replace an outdated card could have serious implications, particularly when travelling, seeking employment, or interacting with government agencies that require valid immigration documentation.
The USCIS website outlines the full replacement process, including the relevant forms and instructions for lawful permanent residents who need to update their documents.
Related Green Card Rules for Permanent Residents
In a related development, USCIS has published the full list of conditions under which lawful permanent residents must replace their Green Cards. Additionally, the US government has outlined a strict rule for conditional permanent residents holding a two-year Green Card. USCIS confirmed that holders cannot renew the two-year card but must instead file a petition to remove conditions before it expires.
