USCIS to Issue Re-Designed High-Tech Green Cards and Employment Authorization Cards Starting May 1st

In an effort to deter document tampering and fraud, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) on Wednesday announced that it will begin issuing newly re-designed Green Cards (Permanent Resident Cards) and Employment Authorization Documents (EAD) starting May 1st, 2017.

“These redesigns use enhanced graphics and fraud-resistant security features to create cards that are highly secure and more tamper-resistant than the ones currently in use,” read a press release by the USCIS.

According to USCIS, the new Green Cards and EADs will

• Display the individual’s photos on both sides;
• Show a unique graphic image and color palette:
  • Green Cards will have an image of the Statue of Liberty and a predominately green palette;
  • EAD cards will have an image of a bald eagle and a predominately red palette;
• Have embedded holographic images; and
• No longer display the individual’s signature.

Also, Green Cards will no longer have an optical stripe on the back.

Individuals holding Green Cards and EADs with the old designs after May 1st can continue using them after May 1st as they will continue being valid until their expiration date displayed on the cards, said the USCIS.