What to Do if You Lose Your Green Card While Traveling Abroad: A Guide to the Boarding Foil Process

Losing your green card while outside the United States can be a stressful situation. Fortunately, U.S. immigration law provides a way for legal permanent residents to re-enter the country if their green card is lost, stolen, or damaged. The solution is a “boarding foil,” which allows re-entry to the U.S. on a temporary basis. Here, we explain the boarding foil application process, requirements, and necessary documents.

A boarding foil is a single-entry travel document issued to legal permanent residents (LPRs) who lose their green card while abroad. It enables them to board a flight back to the U.S. and is valid for up to 30 days from issuance.

To qualify for a boarding foil, you must meet these basic requirements:

• LPR Status: You must be a legal permanent resident.
• Time Spent Outside the U.S.: You must have been outside the U.S. for less than one year. The time is calculated from the departure date from the U.S. to the date you pay the I-131A filing fee.

1. Pay the Filing Fee for Form I-131A: Begin by paying the I-131A fee through the USCIS website. Print the receipt, as this proof of payment will be required at the consulate.
2. Complete Form I-131A: This form serves as the official application for a boarding foil.
3. Contact the Nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate: Procedures may vary by country, so it’s essential to check specific instructions on the consulate’s website. Many consulates require you to submit an inquiry before scheduling an appointment.

When visiting the U.S. embassy or consulate, bring the following:

1. Passport: The original passport and an additional copy of the biographic page.
2. Proof of LPR Status: A photocopy of the front and back of your green card, if available.
3. Travel Itinerary: A copy of your plane ticket or evidence showing your most recent departure and intended return date.
4. Passport-Style Photograph: One passport photo taken within the last 30 days.
5. I-131A Fee Receipt: Proof of payment of the I-131A fee.
6. Local Law Enforcement Report (Optional but recommended): If your green card was stolen, file a report with local authorities and bring a copy of the report to the consulate.

After your application is approved, the consulate will attach the boarding foil to your passport, permitting you to travel back to the U.S.

To prevent complications, it’s best to review the consulate’s instructions carefully and contact them in advance. If you’re in need of assistance with this process, Scott Legal, P.C. can provide expert guidance and ensure that your re-entry process is as smooth as possible.