Evidence of LPR Status (ADIT stamp)

Introduction

The US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has implemented a new procedure that allows LPRs to receive ADIT stamp by mail. Alien Documentation, Identification, and Telecommunication (ADIT) stamp, also known as an I-551 stamp is a temporary evidence of lawful permanent residence (LPR) status which, traditionally, an applicant was able to obtain by visiting USCIS, in person. In this blog, we will discuss the circumstances that qualify LPRs for temporary evidence and outline the new mail delivery process.

Eligibility for Temporary Evidence of LPR Status

Lawful permanent residents are eligible to request temporary evidence of their status (ADIT status) under the following circumstances:

• They are not in possessions of their Green Card; or
• There are beneficiaries of a pending Form I-90 (Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card), Form I-751 (Petition to Remove Conditions on Residence), or Form N-400 (Application for Naturalization) and their Green Card and extension notice (Form I-797) have expired.

The New Mail Delivery Process

When LPR desiring a ADIT stamp to document temporary evidence of their status contacts USCIS, the following process takes place:

• An immigration services officer (ISO) verifies the applicant’s identity, physical mailing address, and whether the address can receive UPS or FedEx express mail.
• The ISO then either schedules an in-person appointment, if necessary, or submits a request to the USCIS field office to issue the ADIT stamp.
• If an in-person appointment is not necessary, the USCIS field office reviews the request for temporary evidence and mails the applicant a Form I-94 bearing the ADIT stamp, the USCIS/DHS seal, and a printed photo of the LPR obtained from USCIS systems.

Unless otherwise specified by regulation or policy, USCIS has the discretion to determine the validity period of the ADIT stamp based on the LPR’s situation, with a maximum limit of one year.

Exceptions to the Mail Delivery Process

Some applicants will still be required to appear, in person, at a USCIS field office to obtain temporary proof (ADIT stamp) of their status. This includes candidates who:

• Have immediate requirements for ADIT stamp.
• Has no usable photo in USCIS database.
• Are unable to have their address or identity verified.

Conclusion

The new mail delivery process for temporary evidence of LPR status simplifies and streamlines the experience for applicants. By reducing the need for in-person appointments, USCIS can better serve LPRs and optimize field office resources. To learn more about this new process and eligibility requirements, visit the USCIS website or consult with an immigration attorney.