May 22, 2002

New Policy Regarding Permanent Residence Stamps In Passports

It has come to our attention that INS district offices have changed the policies with respect to renewal green card stamps placed in passports. Previously an individual who had attained lawful permanent residence status and needed to renew their green card could have the INS district office stamp the passport with evidence of their status while the renewal card was being processed. The district offices no longer provide this renewal stamp in the passport via same day processing. INS is now conducting security clearances before the renewal stamp may be placed in the passport. While the security clearances are scheduled to take approximately two weeks, it is advised that individuals allow more time to receive the renewal stamp and plan any travel outside the United States accordingly.