Renewing Permanent Resident Cards Without an Expiration Date

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services published a proposed rule in the Federal Register on August 22, 2007, that will require approximately 750,000 lawful permanent residents carrying ‘green cards’ without expiration dates to apply for a new Permanent Resident Card (Form I-551).  The proposal allows for a 120-day filing period for applications.  The change allows USCIS to issue more secure permanent resident cards, update cardholder information, conduct background checks, and electronically store applicants’ fingerprint and photographic information.

• Why is this proposed replacement of Forms I-551 without an expiration date necessary?
• Why announce this proposed replacement of Forms I-551 without an expiration date now?
• Would I be able to e-file?
• Would my card be valid until USCIS issues me a new card?
• Can an applicant apply for the new card before the implementation date?
• Would a permanent resident be required to surrender his/her original ”green card” upon receipt of the new one?
• Would USCIS accept late filings after the 120-day filing period is closed?
• Would there be any legal sanctions against a “green card” holder who fails to apply?
• What’s the difference between previous cards and the new card to be issued?
• Would a permanent resident be able to choose to apply for naturalization instead of applying for a new card under the proposed rule?
• How many permanent residents would be impacted by this initiative?
• How can I formally comment on this proposal?