(日本語)

Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) issues alien registration cards (I-551) to immigrants who are legally admitted for residence in the United States. Alien registration cards (commonly known as "green cards") can only be issued or replaced in the United States and can never be obtained overseas. A green card is required for re-entry into the United States as a legal permanent resident.

If you left your green card in the U.S., try to arrange for someone to send it to you overseas.

If your green card has been lost or stolen, you may be able to obtain a "transportation letter" valid for one month authorizing a transportation line to carry you to the United States without penalty. To issue a transportation letter we must be satisfied that you hold legal resident status in the United States.

To apply for a "transportation letter," bring the following documents to the U.S. Embassy/U.S. Consulate:

• Evidence of your identity (passport, photo ID)
• Your airplane tickets (the one showing your departure date from the U.S.)
• Evidence of your U.S. legal resident status (e.g. passport showing admission to the United States as an immigrant)
• Evidence that you were in the United States within the last 12 months
• Copy of your report to the police of the card's loss/theft or detailed explanation as to why you do not have your card
• Application fee ($165)
• 2 identical passport-style photographs

Processing time will depend on the circumstances of your case and the amount of information and evidence you provide. The time required can be as little as one hour to several days.

NOTE: Requests for transportation letters can only be processed during normal business hours. We cannot process requests on weekends, holidays, or in the evening.

Requests for transportation letters may be submitted as follows:

• Tokyo: Monday thru Friday 8:30 - 12:00
• Naha: Monday thru Friday 8:30 - 11:30 and 13:30 – 15:00
• Osaka: Send E-mail if you wish to apply in Osaka