Green Card Error: What to Do When USCIS Makes a Typo

Receiving a green card with an error made by USCIS — such as an incorrect sex marker — is an unfortunate but documented occurrence. When the mistake is attributable to USCIS rather than the applicant, the correction process differs from cases where the applicant submitted incorrect information. To correct a USCIS-caused error on a green card, the affected individual should file Form I-90 (Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card) and select the option indicating the card contains incorrect information due to a USCIS error. This filing is typically fee-exempt when the error is on USCIS's part. Applicants are generally required to return the defective green card along with the I-90 application. While evidence may not always be required if documents like a birth certificate were already submitted during the I-485 process, including supporting documentation — such as a copy of the birth certificate or passport — can help expedite the correction and reduce the chance of a Request for Evidence. Processing times for I-90 corrections vary. USCIS may issue a receipt notice that temporarily serves as proof of status while the replacement card is processed. Applicants should monitor their case status online and contact USCIS if significant delays occur. For EB-3 applicants and other permanent residents, ensuring all details on the green card are accurate is important for employment verification, travel, and future immigration applications such as naturalization. Addressing errors promptly after receiving the card is strongly advised.