The green card is going to be green again--for the first time in years! On May 11, 2010, USCIS announced that it has redesigned the Permanent Resident Card, commonly referred to as the "green card," by adding several new security features and coloring it green.
As most of our readers know, a green card is a document issued by USCIS that proves that a person is authorized to live and work in the United States permanently. It is also evidence that the person holding the green card has complied with the immigration laws of the United States. Lawful permanent residents get green cards that are vaild for ten years; conditional permanent residents (those individuals who obtain permanent residence through marriage to a U.S. citizen) get green cards that are valid for two years. Permanent residents must renew their green cards before they expire.
The redesigned green card contains state-of-the-art technology that is intended to prevent counterfeiting and deter immigration fraud. Among other things, the new card features holographic images, laser engraved fingerprints, and high resolution micro-images. Secure optical media will store biometrics for fast and relilable identification of the card holder. In addition, Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) capability will allow Customs and Border Protection officers at ports of entry to read the card from a distance and compare it to data on file. A preprinted return address on the card will facilitate the quick and easy return of a lost card to USCIS. Finally, the new card will actually be colored green.
Paper Version of I-94W Eliminated
Visitors arriving in the United States on the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) won't be getting green I-94W forms anymore. The Department of Homeland Security will discontinue the use of the paper arrival/departure forms for VWP travelers who have already obtained approval to come to the U.S. through the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) by the end of the summer.
Since 2009, all VWP travelers have been required to use the ESTA program to obtain approval to visit the U.S. prior to boarding an airplane or ship coming to the United States. An applicant may file an ESTA application at any time prior to travel and once approved, it will be valid for two years or until the applicant's passport expires.
From now on, VWP travelers will have their U.S. entries and exits processed automatically, making their travel faster and more convenient.
TPS Extended for Hondurans and Nicaraguans
USCIS has extended Temporary Protected Status ("TPS") for 18 months, until January 5, 2012, for eligible nationals of Honduras and Nicaragua. The extension does not apply to Hondurans and Nicaraguans who entered the United States after December 30, 1998. Certain nationals of these countries who have not previously applied for TPS may be eligible to register under the late initial registration provisions.
This Immigration Bulletin is not intended as a substitute for professional legal advice.
Debra R. Shpigler is a member of the American Immigration Lawyers Association.