Introducing the New 2023 Green Card and Employment Authorization Document

The Green Card and Employment Authorization Document just got a brand-new look.

In this post, we bring you the lowdown on what you can expect. USCIS recently announced that the agency will be issuing newly redesigned Permanent Resident Cards (also known as green cards) and Employment Authorization Documents (EADs) starting Monday, January 30, 2023.

The previous design was implemented in 2017. To mitigate the risk of fraud and counterfeiting, USCIS redesigns green cards and EADs every three to five years.

The new design includes state-of-the-art technology designed to improve its security and integrity against counterfeiting.

Along with completely redesigned artwork, the new green card and EADs come with tactile printing, enhanced optically variable ink, secure holographic images on the front and back, and a new layer-reveal feature showcasing a partial window on the back photo box, and data fields that have been placed in different areas than on previous versions.

The New 2023 Green Card and EAD

USCIS Director Ur M. Jaddou added “This redesign further demonstrates USCIS’ commitment to taking a proactive approach against the threat of secure document tampering, counterfeiting, and fraud. Consistent updates to secure documents, informed by our knowledge of the latest methods of bad actors and the innovation and ingenuity of our staff, ensure the continued integrity of secure documents issued by our agency.”

What does it mean for the validity of older green cards?

USCIS has confirmed previous green cards issued with older designs remain valid until their expiration date (unless otherwise noted).

Will all Green Cards and EADs be issued with the new design after January 30, 2023?

No. USCIS has said that some Green Cards and EADs issued after January 30, 2023, may still display the existing design format because USCIS will continue using existing cardstock until supplies are depleted.

Both versions of the cards remain acceptable for Form I-9, Employment Eligibility Verification; E-Verify; and Systematic Alien Verification for Entitlements (SAVE).

Older Green Cards with No Expiration Date

USCIS confirms that older Green Cards that do not have an expiration date generally remain valid, however, USCIS is encouraging applicants with these older cards to consider applying for a replacement card to prevent fraud or tampering if the card is ever lost or stolen.

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