Is it ok to travel on I-551 stamp?

tufan

Registered Users (C)
Any new news about the stamp? Is it ok to travel on I-551 stamp? The stamp looks fake? Has anybody travelled on the stamp?

The officer told me that they are in process of phasing out but she was not sure and i told her that for time being you guys are not phasing out!!! But what if we travel and in two months they phase out?

She did not take my Advance Paroles? Could those be used if in case officer does not allow back on I-551 stamp?

How long is it taking for cards to come these days?

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USCIS Confirms Use of I-551 Stamps
Posted Oct 29, 2004
©MurthyDotCom
The USCIS confirmed in writing on October 21, 2004 that they will continue to issue I-551, temporary evidence of permanent resident status stamps. These stamps are issued as proof of permanent resident status until the plastic "green card" is received. There had been a Department of Homeland Security announcement on October 15, 2004, at the American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA) Chicago Conference, stating that use of the stamps would be phased out. This created a significant stir and many questions and concerns. Fortunately, the USCIS has apparently reconsidered this matter and preserved the status quo until further notice. [Earlier MurthyDotCom articles and NewsFlashes on this topic are: Travel Possibly Limited for I-551 Stamp Holders updated Oct 19, 2004, I-551 Stamps Expected to Continue for Now, also Oct 19, 2004, and October 2004 AILA Conference Highlights, Oct 22, 2004, which carries information on this subject, as well.]
©MurthyDotCom
The USCIS notice mentions that they are continuing to pursue improvements that will allow for faster issuance of green cards, thereby eliminating the need for the temporary stamps. Changes of this nature would be welcome. Until that goal has been achieved, however, it is necessary to have some simple mechanism to provide an individual with proof of permanent resident status until s/he receives the physical card with security features that cannot be easily duplicated.
 
Yes. In fact, this is the only sure way to travel if your GC is approved while you are in the US.

ETA
 
I understand that I-551 stamp looks fake. Don't worry about that. The computer system has records of your alien number when you enter any U.S. port.

If you are not comfortable with travelling on I-551 stamp, just wait to receive your plastic card (it would make you feel happy).
 
USGC485, is there any problem leaving from India on I-551 stamp?

What if these guys rule out the stamp and we are outside the country? I guess then we are hosed?
 
Don't worry. You are a US permanent resident. Immigration office and any entry point have records of your status on their computer network. If you are outside USA and officers rule out stamp, don't worry. Just show your ticket confirmation that you were outside USA and you had no confirmation about phasing out stamp. They have exit/entry system.

Many people have no problems with exiting and entering USA on their I-551 stamp. If you are still worried, why don't you wait for plastic green card?

I haven't been out of USA since 1999. We have our plastic cards. My friends, my spouse, and I are planning to Canada this December. Also, my spouse and I will visit India and Australia next year.

Suggestion: wait for your plastic card or talk to your lawyer.
 
I too suggest wait for Plastic cards. now days 80% people are getting their cards between 8 to 12 weeks.
 
Gorilla said:
I too suggest wait for Plastic cards. now days 80% people are getting their cards between 8 to 12 weeks.


That's what the officer told. She said you'll get the card in few days. Not even months or weeks!!!
i did not bother to question her.

As we always have some much information from our members here on the forum. IT's not even worth asking the officers.
 
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