What is an I-551 stamp?

An I-551 stamp (also called an ADIT stamp — Alien Documentation, Identification and Telecommunications) is a temporary stamp placed in your passport by USCIS or CBP that serves as evidence of lawful permanent resident (LPR) status. It is legally equivalent to a physical green card (Form I-551) for proving your right to live and work in the US and to re-enter after travel. It's typically valid for 6–12 months.

How do I get an I-551 stamp from USCIS?

Call the USCIS Contact Center (1-800-375-5283) and request an in-person appointment for an ADIT stamp, explaining why you need temporary evidence of LPR status (lost card, pending I-90, pending I-751, approved I-485 awaiting card). Since 2022, USCIS can also mail you an ADIT stamp on a Form I-94 with photo — without an in-person visit — in many cases. Bring your passport, photo ID, and any receipt notices to an in-person appointment.

Can I work with an I-551 stamp?

Yes. An I-551 stamp is List A evidence of both identity and employment authorization for Form I-9 purposes — equivalent to presenting a physical green card. Employers must accept a foreign passport containing a temporary I-551 stamp (or an I-94 with ADIT stamp and photo). The stamp proves you are a lawful permanent resident with unrestricted work authorization.

Can I travel internationally with an I-551 stamp?

Yes — an unexpired I-551 stamp in your valid passport allows you to re-enter the United States as a returning lawful permanent resident, the same as a physical green card. Airlines and CBP accept it. Make sure the stamp will still be valid on your return date; if it expires while you're abroad, re-entry becomes complicated and may require an SB-1 returning resident visa or carrier documentation.

How long is an I-551 stamp valid?

USCIS typically issues I-551/ADIT stamps with 6 to 12 months validity, depending on your situation — long enough to bridge until your physical card arrives. The temporary I-551 created by a CBP admission stamp on an immigrant visa is valid for 1 year from entry. If your stamp is expiring and your card still hasn't arrived, you can request another stamp.

What is the difference between Form I-551 and the I-551 stamp?

Form I-551 is the official name of the physical green card itself (Permanent Resident Card). The I-551 stamp is the temporary passport stamp that substitutes for the card. Both prove the same status — lawful permanent residence. When immigration documents refer to 'evidence of I-551,' either the card or the unexpired stamp qualifies.

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I-551 Stamp: Temporary Green Card Proof

The I-551 stamp (ADIT stamp) is a passport stamp that legally substitutes for your physical green card — for work, travel, and re-entry — while you wait for the card itself. Here's when you need one, how to get it, and how long it lasts.

Quick answer: An I-551 stamp = temporary green card evidence, valid 6–12 months. Get it via the USCIS Contact Center (in-person appointment, or mailed ADIT stamp on I-94 since 2022). Works for I-9 employment verification and international travel re-entry.

When You Need an I-551 Stamp

Green card approved but physical card not yet received

I-551 stamp placed in passport at I-485 approval or after immigrant visa entry — serves as proof of LPR status until the card arrives.

Green card lost, stolen, or expired with I-90 pending

Schedule an InfoPass-style appointment (via USCIS Contact Center) for an ADIT stamp while your replacement card is processed.

Conditional residence extended (I-751 pending)

USCIS extends status via receipt notice (currently 48 months); if you need physical proof for travel/work, request an I-551 stamp.

New immigrant entering on an immigrant visa

The CBP admission stamp + immigrant visa in your passport acts as a temporary I-551, valid for 1 year — your green card is mailed afterward.

How to Get an I-551 / ADIT Stamp

1
Call the USCIS Contact Center
1-800-375-5283. Explain you need temporary evidence of permanent resident status and why (lost card, pending I-90/I-751, approved I-485 awaiting card).
2
Ask about the mail option first
Since 2022, USCIS can mail an ADIT stamp on Form I-94 with your photo and seal — no office visit needed — if your address and photo on file are current.
3
Attend the appointment if scheduled
Bring your passport (valid at least 6 months), government photo ID, and relevant receipt notices (I-90, I-751, I-485 approval). The stamp is placed in your passport on the spot.
4
Verify the stamp details before leaving
Check the validity date and your A-number on the stamp. Errors are much easier to fix at the window than after you leave.

Frequently Asked Questions

Related Resources

EB-1A Criteria →DOL Processing Times →EAD Meaning →

Authority Sources

Sumit Patel

SMIEEE · FBCS · FIETE | 16+ years data engineering | 30+ peer-reviewed papers

Built H1BVisaJobs.com on 10 GB+ of DOL LCA disclosure data. I-551 stamp guidance sourced from USCIS official process updates. Read full bio →