On May 11, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) announced it will begin issuing a redesigned Permanent Resident Card--commonly referred to as the “Green Card.” For the first time in over 30 years, newly-issued Green Cards will actually be green in color.

Green Cards are evidence of a non-citizen’s right to live and work in the United States permanently and are valid for 10 years. The existing beige cards currently in use are valid through the expiration date listed the card. When they expire, they will be replaced by the new card.

The new card incorporates several new security components, including biometric data and other features designed to reduce or eliminate fraud and thwart counterfeiters.

When they expire, they will be replaced by the new card.

The new card incorporates several new security components, including biometric data and other features designed to reduce or eliminate fraud and thwart counterfeiters.

According to USCIS Director Alejandro Mayorkas:

Redesigning the Green Card is a major achievement for USCIS,” said The new security technology makes a critical contribution to the integrity of the immigration system.

The enhanced features will better serve law enforcement, employers, and immigrants who look to the Green Card as the definitive proof of authorization to live and work in the United States.

Among the new features are:

1. Secure optical media to store biometrics for rapid and reliable identification of the card holder;
2. Holographic images, laser engraved fingerprints, and high resolution micro-images tomake the card nearly impossible to reproduce;
3. Tighter integration of the card design with personalized elements will make it difficult to alter the card if stolen; 
4. Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) [ ] capability to allow Customs and Border Protection officers at ports of entry to read the card from a distance and compare it immediately to file data; and finally,
5. A preprinted return address will enable the easy return of a lost card to USCIS.

The RFID chip will allow machines at border crossings to read the card’s information from a distance and compare it immediately to a database of immigration data. The Homeland Security Department has already authorized several other types of RFID-enabled official identification. This includes U.S. passports issued after October 2008 and "enhanced driver’s licenses" from Michigan, New York, Vermont and Washington state.You can review USCIS's FAQ and Fact Sheet to get more complete information on the new card.

New Mexico residents can visit the local USCIS office at 1720 Randolf Road SE, Albuquerque, NM 87106. For more details, see this link.