New Format for Green Cards & Employment Authorization Cards Announced

On April 19, 2017, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services announced a redesign to the Permanent Resident Card (also known as a Green Card) and the Employment Authorization Document (EAD) to make these cards more fraud-resistant and secure.

The Redesigned Cards

"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."

Transition Period

Although USCIS will begin issuing the new cards on May 1, 2017, it is possible some newly issued cards will still be in the old format since USCIS needs to deplete its current card stock.

"Therefore, for some time, both the existing and the new Green Cards and EADs will remain valid until the expiration date shown on the card. Both versions are acceptable for Form I-9, Employment Eligibility Verification, E-Verify, and Systematic Alien Verification for Entitlements (SAVE)."

What This Means for Employers

• Both old and new format cards remain valid for I-9 and E-Verify purposes.
• Do not reject a card solely because it is in the old format.
• Cards remain valid through their printed expiration date regardless of format.