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Travel

Carrier Documentation (Form I-131A)

Board your flight home if your Green Card is lost abroad.

We'll guide you through it, step by step

  • ✓Simple questions in plain language — no legal jargon
  • ✓We fill in the official form and check for common mistakes
  • ✓Private — no document uploads

Free to start • No credit card • Official form

Not sure this is the right form? Take the free eligibility check

Estimated fee

$575 USCIS fee (paid online, nonrefundable)

View official fee calculator ↗

Typical timeline

1 to 2 weeks depending on embassy

Category

Travel

Who qualifies

Lawful permanent residents who lost their Green Card or re-entry permit outside the U.S. and have been abroad for less than one year (or two years with a valid re-entry permit).

The step-by-step roadmap

  1. 1

    Pay the Fee Online

    Pay the filing fee through the USCIS online payment system before visiting the embassy.

    Watch out: Keep your receipt number and confirmation page.
    Common rejection reason: Showing up without printed proof of payment will halt your appointment.
  2. 2

    Complete Form I-131A

    Fill out all sections of Form I-131A with your travel details and alien registration number.

    Watch out: Make sure your personal details match your official passport exactly.
    Common rejection reason: Missing signatures or incorrect A-Numbers delay processing.
  3. 3

    Book Embassy Appointment

    Schedule an in-person appointment at the nearest U.S. embassy or consular section.

    Watch out: Follow the specific instructions of the local embassy website.
    Common rejection reason: Missing required embassy booking steps leads to cancelled appointments.
  4. 4

    Attend Interview

    Present your documents, passport, and payment proof to the consular officer for verification.

    Watch out: If you stayed abroad over one year, this form cannot help you.
    Common rejection reason: Inability to prove your travel dates or identity can lead to denial.

Documents you'll need

  • Valid Passport

    Original unexpired passport to receive the temporary boarding foil.

    Note: Must have at least one blank visa page.

  • Proof of LPR Status

    Copy of lost Green Card, stamp in older passport, or prior entry records.

    Note: Helps verify your lawful permanent resident status quickly.

  • Police Report or Loss Evidence

    Official police report documenting the theft or loss of your Green Card.

    Note: Include your departure ticket showing you left the U.S. within the last year.

Ready to start?

Run the free eligibility check first, then get your personalized roadmap and document checklist.

Check my eligibility

Fees and timelines are as published by the relevant agency and may change — verify before filing. This guide is general information, not legal advice.