What You Need to Know About Today’s Green Cards and EADs

USCIS Green Card and EAD Redesign: What You Need to Know

Since January 30, 2023, the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has been issuing updated versions of two important immigration documents: the Permanent Resident Card (commonly known as a Green Card) and the Employment Authorization Document (EAD). Both the old and redesigned cards are in use today, with the new ones including more security enhancements that help protect against fraud and tampering.

A Green Card proves that someone is a lawful permanent resident of the United States. It allows the holder to live and work in the country on a long-term basis. On the other hand, an EAD provides temporary work authorization to non-citizens who are either permitted to work in the United States because of their immigration status or who must first request permission from USCIS to do so.

The updated designs for both Green Cards and EADs feature advanced security elements to protect against fraud and counterfeiting. These include more detailed artwork, tactile printing that blends more naturally into the card’s design, improved optically variable ink, and secure holographic images on both the front and back. The cards also include a layer-reveal feature with a partial window in the photo area on the back, along with revised placement of key data fields.

There is no need to replace your card just because the design changed. Cards issued before the redesign are still valid until they expire. USCIS regularly updates card designs to stay ahead of counterfeiting and misuse.

Green Cards and EADs remain essential documents for proving immigration status and work authorization in the United States. If your card is expiring or has been lost or damaged, follow USCIS guidance to request a replacement.

Sources:

1. USCIS. https://www.uscis.gov/archive/uscis-redesigns-green-card-and-employment-authorization-document
2. USCIS. https://www.uscis.gov/save/whats-new/uscis-redesigns-permanent-resident-cards-and-employment-authorization-documents
3. USCIS. https://www.uscis.gov/sites/default/files/document/guides/GreenCard_Comparison_EN.PDF.pdf
4. USCIS. https://www.uscis.gov/green-card/green-card-processes-and-procedures/employment-authorization-document