What Is The Adit Stamp (USCIS)?

If you’re unfamiliar with the U.S. immigration process, you may have come across the term “ADIT Stamp” and wondered what is the ADIT Stamp (USICS). 

In this article, we will delve into the details of the ADIT Stamp, its purpose, and how it is used in the immigration process. 

Whether you are an immigrant yourself or simply curious about immigration procedures, this article will shed light on an important aspect of the USCIS’s operations.

What Is The ADIT Stamp (USCIS)?

The ADIT Stamp (USCIS) is a stamp that is affixed to a page in one’s passport or on an I-94 card which serves as proof of lawful permanent resident status. It is issued by the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). 

The stamp contains important information such as your name, immigrant classification, date of admission, and other details. 

It is typically valid for 12 months, after which you must apply to renew it.

The ADIT Stamp is a small, rectangular stamp that resembles a postage stamp. 

Note📝: It is important to note that the ADIT stamp does not replace your green card – it merely serves as temporary proof of your LPR status until a new permanent resident card is issued or approved. 

This means that if you are waiting for an extension of your LPR status to be approved, or if your green card has been lost. 

Additionally, if stolen, or destroyed, you can obtain an ADIT stamp to help bridge the gap.

What Is The Purpose Of The ADIT Stamp?

The purpose of the ADIT stamp is to serve as temporary evidence of an individual’s lawful permanent resident status. It is typically affixed to a passport or I-94 card, and it indicates that the individual has been granted permission to reside and work in a specific country. 

The ADIT stamp helps to provide documentation and proof of the individual’s immigration status, which may be required for various purposes such as employment, travel, or accessing certain benefits or services.

Who Is Eligible For I-551 Stamp?

An individual is eligible for an I-551 stamp if their Form I-90 is pending USCIS and they are permanent residents. The I-90 form is used to renew your permanent resident card, and the renewal process can sometimes take up to six months. 

During this time, you may need temporary approval for activities such as international travel. 

The I-551 stamp serves as temporary evidence of your permanent resident status while you wait for your renewed card to be processed.

Here’s a table with required documents often required for ADIT Stamp:

How Much Does ADIT Stamp Cost? 

The cost of an ADIT stamp itself does not have a direct fee. However, in order to obtain the necessary documentation for an ADIT stamp, such as Form I-90, there is a fee of $445. Additionally, if a biometric procedure is required, there will be an additional cost of $85. 

Note📝: These fees may vary. It is always advisable to consult the official USCIS website or seek guidance from an immigration attorney for the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding costs.

How Long Does It Take To Get An ADIT Stamp?

The process of obtaining an ADIT stamp can take up to 12 months. This timeline can vary depending on the workload levels and staffing of the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). The renewal procedure involves several steps, including submitting the necessary documentation, attending interviews, and undergoing background checks. 

Note📝: The USCIS must review and process each application, which can contribute to the overall time it takes to receive an ADIT stamp. 

Why Do You Need An ADIT Stamp?

An ADIT stamp is needed in certain situations to serve as temporary evidence of lawful permanent resident status. The primary reason is if their green card is missing, they can use the ADIT stamp as proof of their status until a new green card is issued.

Another reason is if they were issued an I-90 or I-751 receipt notice with an extension that has expired, as the ADIT stamp can provide temporary evidence of their continued lawful status. 

Additionally, if someone filed Form N-400 more than six months prior to the expiration of their green card and it has now expired, they may need an ADIT stamp as proof of their ongoing lawful permanent resident status. 

Is An ADIT Stamp The Same As An I-551?

No, an ADIT stamp is not the same as an I-551. While both the ADIT stamp and the I-551 serve as proof of lawful permanent resident status, the ADIT stamp is a temporary measure, while the I-551 is a permanent identification document.

An ADIT stamp is temporary evidence of lawful permanent resident status that allows individuals to prove their immigration status without physically visiting a field office. It is also known as an I-551 stamp. 

On the other hand, an I-551 is a permanent resident card, which serves as official proof of an individual’s permanent resident status in the United States. 

How To Apply For An ADIT Stamp Or I-551 Stamp?

First, you must contact the USCIS Contact Center and request temporary evidence of your status. During this call, an immigration services officer will verify your identity and physical mailing address. This step is important to ensure the security and accuracy of the process.

Once your identity and address have been verified, the USCIS officer will determine whether your address can receive UPS or FedEx express mail. 

Next, they may schedule an in-person appointment for you to obtain the ADIT stamp. This appointment will take place at a USCIS field office.

In cases where an in-person appointment is not necessary, the USCIS will review your request and mail you a Form I-94 with an ADIT stamp, DHS seal, and a printed photo of yourself. 

This temporary stamp is typically valid for one year, giving you ample time to replace your lost or damaged green card.

Remember to follow the USCIS guidelines and contact the USCIS Contact Center to initiate the process.

What Happens If Your I-551 Stamp Expires?

If your I-551 stamp expires, it means that your proof of permanent residency has expired. This can have serious consequences, as you may be at risk of being removed as a permanent resident by an immigration judge. It is important to keep your immigration status up to date.

Additionally, you should renew your I-551 stamp before it expires to avoid any legal issues. 

Note📝: It is worth noting that the expiration of the I-551 stamp does not affect your eligibility to apply for naturalization.

You can still begin the process of applying for naturalization within 3-5 years of receiving your green card, regardless of the expiration of the stamp.

What Is The Form I-94 With ADIT Stamp?

The Form I-94 with ADIT (temporary I-551) stamp is a document issued by USCIS field offices as temporary evidence of Lawful Permanent Resident (LPR) status. This new process allows individuals to obtain this document without having to appear in person at the field office. 

The ADIT stamp serves as proof of LPR status until the permanent green card is received. 

This streamlined process is beneficial as it saves time and effort for individuals who need to provide evidence of their LPR status for various purposes such as employment, travel, or other legal requirements.

What Is Form I-551?

Form I-551, also known as a green card, is an official document that grants an immigrant permanent resident status in the United States. The card is typically valid for a period of 10 years and can be renewed before it expires. 

Historically, the I-551 Form was referred to as a green card due to its green color. 

It serves as proof of an individual’s lawful permanent resident status and allows them to live and work in the United States indefinitely.

What Is the Difference Between Form I-551 and I-551 Stamp?

The main difference between Form I-551 and an I-551 stamp is that Form I-551 is a physical card that serves as permanent proof of an individual’s permanent resident status. Meanwhile, an I-551 stamp is temporary evidence of permanent resident status that is placed in a foreign national’s passport. 

Form I-551 is an official document that grants the holder the right to live and work in the United States.

On the other hand, the I-551 stamp is a temporary measure that is often given at the time of entry or adjustment of status.

It also serves as a temporary proof of permanent resident status until the physical Green Card is issued.

Here’s a table outlining different situations when you should apply for an ADIT (Admission and Departure Document) stamp and Form I-551 (Temporary Evidence of Lawful Permanent Resident Status):

How To Get Form I-551?

To obtain Form I-551, also known as a Permanent Resident Card or Green Card, you must go through the process of applying for lawful permanent residency in the United States. It involves submitting an application and supporting documents, and attending an interview with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). 

Once approved, you will receive your Form I-551, which serves as proof of your permanent residency status.

Step 1: Filing Your Form I-485 Application

The first step is to fill out and submit Form I-485, which is the official application for lawful permanent residency in the U.S. 

This must be completed accurately and completely, as well as accompanied by supporting documents such as a valid passport, birth certificate, proof of financial support, and other items.

Step 2: Biometrics Appointment

Once your application is received, you will be required to attend a biometrics appointment where you will provide fingerprints, photos, and signatures.

Step 3: Interview (If Required)

Depending on the case, you may need to attend an in-person interview with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). 

This is usually scheduled within two weeks of your biometrics appointment.

Step 4: Decision

The decision will be made based on the information you provided and whether or not you meet the requirements for permanent residence. 

If you are approved, you will receive a Form I-551, which is commonly known as a Green Card.

Step 5: Conditional Permanent Residence (If Applicable)

If you are applying for permanent residency through family, employment, or special categories, you may be required to obtain a conditional permanent residence. 

This means that your status as a permanent resident will be valid for two years and must be renewed by filing another Form I-485. 

If you are applying through asylum or refugee status, your status is not subject to the two-year renewal requirement.

How Do You Replace Your I-551 Permanent Resident Card?

To replace your I-551 Permanent Resident Card, you can visit the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) website for detailed guidance. They provide instructions on the necessary forms to fill out and the documents you need to submit. Alternatively, you can contact USCIS directly at 1-800-375-5283 for further assistance. 

Tip 📌: Take prompt action if your Green Card has been lost, stolen, or expired to ensure that you have the proper documentation for legal residency in the United States. 

The USCIS website is a valuable resource that can provide you with the necessary steps to replace or renew your I-551 Permanent Resident Card.

How Much Does It Cost To Apply For Form I-551?

The cost to apply for Form I-551, also known as a Permanent Resident Card or Green Card, is $985. This fee covers the processing and filing of the application. Additionally, if a biometric screening appointment is required, there is an additional cost of $85. 

It is important to note that these fees are subject to change. 

Tip 📌: It is always recommended to check the latest fee schedule on the official U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) website before submitting an application.

What Is the Difference Between A Visa And A Stamp?

A visa, issued by a foreign country’s embassy or consulate, permits entry and designates the port of entry. Conversely, a stamp, placed in the passport upon arrival, signifies entry for a specific duration but doesn’t guarantee admission or stay length. 

Visas grant entry permission, while stamps endorse and record it in the passport.

A visa is a document issued by a foreign country’s embassy or consulate that grants permission for an individual to enter that country. 

It serves as a travel permit and allows the visa holder to request permission to enter the country at a designated port of entry. 

On the other hand, a stamp is an endorsement or mark that is placed in the individual’s passport upon arrival at the port of entry. 

The stamp indicates that the individual has been granted entry into the country for a specific period of time, but it does not guarantee admission or determine how long the individual can stay in the country. 

FAQs

Can You Travel Outside The US With ADIT Stamp? 

The answer is yes, you can travel outside the US with an ADIT stamp. The ADIT stamp serves as temporary evidence of lawful permanent resident status, allowing individuals to travel internationally. It can be used as proof of authorized employment as well. 

However, it is important to note that the ADIT stamp is not a substitute for a permanent resident card (green card). 

Tip 📌: Obtain a green card as soon as possible to avoid any potential complications or limitations while traveling.

Can You Travel To Canada With ADIT Stamp?

Yes, you can travel to Canada with an ADIT stamp. An ADIT stamp is an official proof of status as a lawful permanent resident of the U.S. It is a temporary stamp that is placed in a foreign passport and serves as a valid document for entry into Canada. 

Tip 📌: It is always advisable to check the specific entry requirements and travel restrictions of the destination country before making any travel plans.

Conclusion

In summary, the ADIT stamp from USCIS serves as temporary evidence of lawful permanent resident status, allowing international travelers to re-enter the United States without a physical Green Card. 

This stamp, often placed in passports, offers convenience and flexibility while awaiting the permanent card. 

However, it’s crucial to note that the ADIT stamp’s validity and application process can vary based on individual circumstances. 

For the most accurate and up-to-date information, individuals should consult the USCIS official website or seek guidance from immigration professionals.