USCIS has updated the design for Permanent Resident Cards (Green Cards) as well as Employment Authorization Documents (EADs) in order to beef up security measures for each. The new cards feature state-of-the-art design elements and began being issued January 30, 2023, though older cards are valid through their expiration date.
The current card design, which has been in rotation since 2017, was due for a makeover, as the agency has stated an intent to regularly issue redesigns every three to five years to reduce instances of scams and fraud, document tampering and counterfeiting. The redesign is part of the Secure Identification Platform (SIP) Project, an initiative that began in 2019 with extensive market research.
Both Green Cards and EADs serve as proof of authorization to work in the U.S., the former for legal permanent residents, and the latter for foreign nationals who are eligible to work but don’t have a temporary work visa.
Features of the new Green Cards and EADs
The new design changes include:
- more detailed artwork for the card’s image of the Statue of Liberty
- rearranged data fields
- tactile printing
- removal of the cardholder’s fingerprint on the front
- use of enhanced “optically variable ink”
- secure holographic images on front and back
- new layer reveal feature with partial window on the back photo box
What to know about the rollout of the new immigration documentation
- Older cards are still valid through their expiration date.
- Some Green Cards and EADs issued after January 30, 2023, may still display the previous generation design format because USCIS has planned to continue using existing cardstock until current supplies are depleted.
- Though existing cards will remain valid, USCIS is encouraging people who have older models without expiration dates to apply for a replacement in order to prevent fraud if the older card is ever lost or stolen.
How to report fraud or learn more about avoiding scams in immigration documentation
If you have any concerns about scams in immigration documentation or simply want to learn more about avoiding or reporting fraud, contact us today and we will be happy to provide clarity on this issue or any other immigration matters. More information is also available on the USCIS Scams, Fraud, and Misconduct page as well as in USCIS’ news release about the updated documentation.
