Immigrant Visas

Lost Green Card

If you have lost (or never received) your Alien Receipt Card (I-551), also known as the "green card", and wish to return to reside in the United States, you will need to appear in person at the U.S. Consulate General in Auckland to apply for a Transportation Letter (sometimes called a Boarding Letter). This will allow you to be re-admitted to the United States, however an I-551 card can only be replaced/re-issued by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Service (USCIS) within the U.S.

Please contact the U.S. Visa Information Service by calling 0900 US VISA (0900 878 472) to obtain the required forms and instructions to obtain the Transportation Letter.

In order to issue you with a Transportation Letter you require the following evidence of your current legal status in the U.S.:

• Your valid passport with ADIT stamp (U.S. Immigration entry stamp) showing your "A" number (8 digit number);
• Any other documentation/letters from USCIS regarding current status;
• Proof of departure from the U.S. showing you left the U.S. less than 1 year ago (airline tickets/stubs, itinerary from Travel Agent, a boarding pass).

In addition, at the time of your interview at the Consulate General, you must bring:

• 4 passport type photographs (photo requirements);
• Details of the category and port of entry for your original entry into the U.S. as a legal permanent resident;
• Transportation/boarding Letter fee.

If you are not able to satisfy the Consulate General of your legal status in the United States, your case will be referred to the regional USCIS office, for confirmation of your status. Please allow several days for this process.