While some green card and EAD recipients will receive the next generation cards on May 1, others could receive current forms of the IDs. New identifications “may still display the existing design format as USCIS will continue using existing card stock until current supplies are depleted.”
Regardless of the old or the new form, each identification remains valid until the expiration date printed on the card.
In terms of EADs, USCIS specifically points out that some expiration dates on Employment Authorization Documents have already been extended. Extended EADs will remain valid until the new expiration date.
The cards, which USCIS describes as a part of its ongoing effort with two other agencies– U.S. Customs and Border Protection and U.S. Immigrations and Customs Enforcement. In sum, the agencies’ efforts are designed to “enhance document security and deter counterfeiting and fraud.”
Among the new features included on the new green cards and EADs:
- Photo on both sides
- Graphic image and color palette
- A predominately green palette and an image of the Statue of Liberty on green cards
- A predominately red palette with a bald eagle on Employment Authorization Documents
- Holographic images that are embedded
Both the new green cards are the new EADs will no longer display the individual’s signature. Additionally, the back side of green cards will also not include an optical stripe.
“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,” according to USCIS.
Additionally, USCIS reminds green card and EAD holders that both the old version and the new version of the documents “are acceptable for Form I-9, Employment Eligibility Verification, E-Verify, and Systematic Alien Verification for Entitlements (SAVE).”
Still, some much older forms of green cards don’t include an expiration date. “These older Green Cards without an expiration date remain valid,” according to USCIS. However, the agency encourages those individuals who hold green cards without an expiration date to consider applying for a replacement card that will include an expiration date.
“Obtaining the replacement card will reduce the likelihood of fraud or tampering if the card is ever lost or stolen.”
