New Card is Being Produced i-485: What Does It Mean?
Navigating the journey to U.S. permanent residency through a green card application can be both exciting and overwhelming. At North County Immigration, our experienced team—led by Immigration Attorney Anna Hysell is here to help you make sense of every milestone.
One of the most important updates you may receive from U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is: “New Card Is Being Produced.” This status often appears after submitting Form I-485, the Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status.
But what does this message really mean—and what should you expect next?
Understanding the I-485 Process
Form I-485 is the final major step for immigrants eligible to adjust their status inside the United States. Whether your case is family-based, employment-based, or humanitarian, the I-485 is the application USCIS uses to determine whether you qualify for lawful permanent residency (a green card).
The Meaning of “New Card Is Being Produced”
When U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) updates your case status to “New Card Is Being Produced,” it signals a major milestone in your adjustment of status process. In most cases, this status means that your Form I-485 has been approved, and USCIS is now manufacturing your physical Green Card.
What Comes Next?
When your USCIS case status updates to “New Card Is Being Produced,” it means:
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Your Form I-485 has been approved, and
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USCIS has begun printing your physical Green Card (Permanent Resident Card).
This is one of the final—and most important—steps of the entire process.
Preparing for Your Green Card Arrival
While you wait, it’s important to verify that your mailing address on file with USCIS is up to date to avoid delays or delivery errors. If you’ve moved recently, consider submitting a Change of Address Form to USCIS.
This is also a great time to educate yourself on the rights and responsibilities of permanent residents from maintaining continuous residency to knowing when you may be eligible to apply for U.S. citizenship in the future.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I travel outside the U.S. before my card arrives?
A: It’s advisable to wait for your Green Card before making travel plans to avoid re-entry issues.
Q: What if I don’t receive my card within 60 days?
A: Contact USCIS or seek assistance from an immigration attorney if your card is delayed beyond the expected timeframe.
Q: How do Green Cards ship?
A: Green Cards (Permanent Resident Cards) in the United States are issued and sent by the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Once an individual’s application for permanent residency (e.g., Form I-485 for adjustment of status) is approved, and the card is produced, the USCIS mails the Green Card to the applicant’s mailing address. Here are key points regarding the shipping process:
- Production and Mailing: After approval, the Green Card is printed and mailed out. This process can take several weeks. USCIS provides a case status update, often accessible online through the USCIS Case Status Online tool, indicating when the card has been mailed.
- Shipping Method: USCIS typically uses the United States Postal Service (USPS) for mailing Green Cards. It’s important for recipients to ensure their mailing address is current with USCIS to avoid delivery issues.
- Secure Mail Initiative: USCIS may use secure mailing options for important documents. This includes tracking capabilities and may require a signature upon delivery to ensure the card’s safe arrival.
- Change of Address: If an applicant moves while their Green Card is being processed, it’s crucial to update their address with USCIS promptly to avoid misdelivery. This can be done online through the USCIS Change of Address page or by contacting the USCIS Contact Center.
- Delivery Issues: If there are issues with the delivery of the Green Card, such as it not arriving within the expected timeframe, the recipient should contact USCIS. In some cases, if a Green Card is returned to USCIS as undeliverable, the applicant may need to provide a correct address and possibly pay for re-mailing.
It’s essential for recipients to monitor their case status and maintain clear communication with USCIS regarding their mailing address to ensure the smooth delivery of their Green Card.
Tips for a Smooth Process
To ensure a seamless end to your immigration journey:
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Keep copies of all documents related to your I-485 application
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Review your USCIS case status regularly
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Maintain accurate contact information with USCIS
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Consider consulting an attorney if you experience delays or receive conflicting updates
North County Immigration: Green Card Lawyers
The “New Card Is Being Produced” status is a harbinger of your upcoming transition to permanent residency in the United States. At North County Immigration, we share in your excitement and are here to support you through this final phase of your journey.
If you have questions about your I-485 status or need guidance on your immigration journey, North County Immigration is here to help. Led by Anna Hysell, our team offers expert advice and compassionate service to navigate the complexities of immigration law. We can help you to ensure your path to U.S. permanent residency is smooth and secure.
By Anna M. Hysell
Ms. Hysell is the founding and managing attorney of North County Immigration. After graduating from law school at the University of Wisconsin and getting several years of experience, Ms. Hysell returned to her native Southern California to open an office in North San Diego County to serve clients from the Bay Area to the Mexican Border. She frequently speaks at law conferences, law schools, and workshops providing training to other lawyers. Ms. Hysell is committed to representing individuals with the resolve, compassion, ethics, and values she believes everyone deserves.