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How To Spot Fake Permanent Resident Cards

December 30, 2022
Jonathan Miller

What is a Green Card?

A green card, also known as a Permanent Resident Card, is a document issued by the United States government to individuals who are granted permission to live and work in the United States on a permanent basis.
It is a form of identification that allows permanent residents to travel in and out of the United States, as well as to apply for certain benefits such as a driver’s license and social security card.
The green card is also known as Form I-551, and it is issued by the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
The green card process involves an application and an interview, and it can take several months or even years to obtain one, depending on the individual’s circumstances. There are several ways to qualify for a green card, including through employment, family sponsorship, or as a refugee or asylee.
Once an individual has a green card, they are considered a permanent resident of the United States and are granted many of the same rights and privileges as a citizen, with a few exceptions. Permanent residents are not eligible to vote in federal elections or hold certain government jobs, and they may be deported if they commit certain crimes or violate the terms of their permanent resident status.
However, obtaining a green card is an important step for many individuals who wish to live and work in the United States permanently. It provides a sense of security and stability, and it allows individuals to fully participate in American society.

What Is Permanent Resident Card Fraud?

Green card fraud refers to any fraudulent activity related to the issuance, use, or possession of a green card, also known as a Permanent Resident Card.
This type of fraud can involve the use of fake or altered documents in order to obtain a green card, the sale or purchase of a green card, or the use of a green card obtained through fraudulent means.
Green card fraud is a serious crime and can have serious consequences for those who are caught engaging in it. In addition to facing criminal charges and potentially being sentenced to prison, those convicted of green card fraud may also be deported from the United States and banned from returning for a period of time.
There are several ways that individuals may attempt to commit green card fraud, including by using fake documents or information on their green card application, by entering into a fraudulent marriage in order to obtain a green card, or by purchasing a fake or stolen green card.
It is important for individuals to be aware of green card fraud and to report any suspicious activity to the appropriate authorities. By doing so, individuals can help to protect themselves and others from being victimized by this type of fraudulent activity.

Functions of a Permanent Resident Card

A Permanent Resident Card, also known as a green card, serves several important functions for individuals living in the United States on a permanent basis. Some of the key functions of a green card include:

  1. Identification: A green card serves as a form of identification for permanent residents, allowing them to prove their identity and immigration status when needed.
  2. Travel: A green card allows permanent residents to travel in and out of the United States without the need for a visa. It is important to note, however, that a green card does not guarantee re-entry into the United States and that other requirements, such as a valid passport, may still be necessary for travel.
  3. Employment: A green card allows permanent residents to work legally in the United States without the need for a separate work visa.
  4. Benefits: A green card allows permanent residents to apply for certain benefits, such as a driver’s license, social security card, and government assistance programs.
  5. Citizenship: A green card is an important step towards becoming a naturalized citizen of the United States. Permanent residents who have held their green card for at least five years (or three years if they are married to a U.S. citizen) may be eligible to apply for citizenship.

Overall, a green card is an important document for individuals living in the United States on a permanent basis, as it allows them to fully participate in American society and access important benefits and opportunities.

What does a Immigration Green Card look like if it is fake?

A fake green card, also known as a Permanent Resident Card, may appear quite similar to a genuine one at first glance.
However, upon closer examination, there are several key differences that can indicate that a green card is fake. Some common signs that a green card is fake include:
  1. Inconsistencies in the font, alignment, and layout: A genuine green card will have a consistent and professional appearance. If the font, alignment, or layout of the green card is inconsistent or unprofessional, it is likely to be fake.
  2. Lack of security features: Genuine green cards have several security features, such as holographic images, watermarks, and microprinting, to help prevent counterfeiting. If a green card lacks these features, it is likely to be fake.
  3. Glaring typos: A genuine green card will not have any glaring typos or mistakes on it. If the card has obvious spelling errors or other mistakes, it is likely to be fake.
  4. Incorrect form number: Genuine green cards have the I-551 form number printed on the back in the top left corner. If the card displays the form number in a different location or has a different form number, it is likely to be fake.
  5. References to the INS: The INS (Immigration & Naturalization Service) became a part of the DHS (Department of Homeland Security) in 2003. All genuine green cards have been revised to display the DHS seal and will not make any references to the INS. If the card references the INS in any way, it is likely to be fake.
By being aware of these common signs of a fake green card, individuals can help to protect themselves and others from being victimized by fraudulent activity.

Typos, Inconsistencies, and Other Signs of a Fake Green Card

Typos, inconsistencies, and other mistakes are some of the most common signs that a green card, also known as a Permanent Resident Card, may be fake.
This is how to spot a fake permanent resident card. A genuine green card will have a consistent and professional appearance, with no obvious typos or mistakes. If a green card has any of the following issues, it is likely to be fake:
  1. Typos: A genuine green card will not have any glaring typos or spelling errors on it. If the card has obvious mistakes, it is likely to be fake.
  2. Inconsistencies in the font, alignment, or layout: A genuine green card will have a consistent and professional appearance. If the font, alignment, or layout of the green card is inconsistent or unprofessional, it is likely to be fake.
  3. Lack of security features: Genuine green cards have several security features, such as holographic images, watermarks, and microprinting, to help prevent counterfeiting. If a green card lacks these features, it is likely to be fake.
  4. Incorrect form number: Genuine green cards have the I-551 form number printed on the back in the top left corner. If the card displays the form number in a different location or has a different form number, it is likely to be fake.
  5. References to the INS: The INS (Immigration & Naturalization Service) became a part of the DHS (Department of Homeland Security) in 2003. All genuine green cards have been revised to display the DHS seal and will not make any references to the INS. If the card references the INS in any way, it is likely to be fake.
  6. Fake cards more commonly contain typos on the back of the card rather than on the front. This is very common with fake permanent resident cards.
By being aware of these common signs of a fake green card, individuals can help to protect themselves and others from being victimized by fraudulent activity.

Penalties for Green Card Fraud

Green card fraud refers to any fraudulent activity related to the issuance, use, or possession of a green card, also known as a Permanent Resident Card. This type of fraud is a serious crime and can have serious consequences for those who are caught engaging in it.

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There are both criminal and immigration penalties for green card fraud. Under 18 U.S.C. 1546 for “Fraud and misuse of visas, permits, and other documents,” the maximum sentence for fraud is 5-25 years, depending on the specifics of the case. Marriage fraud carries a maximum penalty of 5 years and a maximum fine of $250,000.

In addition to these criminal penalties, individuals convicted of green card fraud may also be subject to deportation from the United States.

If an order of removal is issued in Immigration Court, the person may also be banned from entering the United States for a minimum of 10 years. Green card fraud can also result in a finding that an individual misrepresented facts in an immigration application. This can result in being denied entry into the country unless they are eligible for a waiver.

It is important for individuals to be aware of the penalties for green card fraud and to avoid engaging in any fraudulent activity related to their immigration status.

The consequences of being caught can be severe and can have long-term consequences for an individual’s ability to live and work in the United States.

How to recognize a real Permanent Resident Card

It is important for both employers and individuals who have recently applied for a green card to be able to distinguish between a real and fake green card.

This is essential in order to avoid any potential issues or problems that may arise from using or presenting a fake card. By understanding the key differences between an authentic green card and a fraudulent one, you can better protect yourself and ensure that you are in compliance with the law.

However, it is important to be able to recognize a real Permanent Resident Card, as there are many fake or fraudulent versions in circulation. Here are some tips to help you recognize a real Permanent Resident Card:

  1. Check the appearance: A real Permanent Resident Card is made of a sturdy plastic material and has a glossy finish. It should be the same size and shape as a standard credit card, and should have the words “PERMANENT RESIDENT” and “UNITED STATES” printed on the front.
  2. Look for security features: The real Permanent Resident Card has a number of security features to help prevent counterfeiting. These include a holographic image, a machine-readable strip on the back, and a digital photograph of the cardholder.
  3. Verify the expiration date: Permanent Resident Cards are valid for 10 years, after which they must be renewed. If the card you are looking at has an expiration date that is far in the past or does not have one at all, it is likely to be fake.
  4. Check the cardholder’s information: The real Permanent Resident Card will have the cardholder’s name, date of birth, and alien registration number (A-Number) printed on it. Make sure that this information matches the cardholder’s identification documents.
  5. Be wary of offers to obtain a Permanent Resident Card quickly or illegally: There are many scams out there that promise to help people obtain a Permanent Resident Card quickly or through illegal means. If someone offers to sell you a Permanent Resident Card or help you get one without following the proper legal process, it is likely to be fake.
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By following these tips, you can help ensure that you are not a victim of a fake or fraudulent Permanent Resident Card.

 

If you have any doubts about the authenticity of a Permanent Resident Card, it is best to contact the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) or seek the advice of an immigration attorney.

Employers and Fake Green cards

As an employer, it is important to be aware of the potential for fake green cards, also known as Permanent Resident Cards, in the workplace. A fake green card can be used by individuals to fraudulently obtain employment or other benefits in the United States. Here are some tips for spotting a fake green card:
  1. Check the front and back of the card: A real green card should have the words “PERMANENT RESIDENT” and “UNITED STATES” printed on the front, as well as the cardholder’s name, date of birth, and alien registration number (A-Number) on the back. If the card does not have these features, it is likely to be counterfeit.
  2. Look for security features: The real green card has several security features designed to prevent counterfeiting. These include a holographic image, a machine-readable strip on the back, and a digital photograph of the cardholder. If the card you are looking at does not have these features, it is probably fake.
  3. Verify the expiration date: Green cards are valid for 10 years, after which they must be renewed. If the card you are examining has an expiration date that is far in the past or does not have one at all, it is likely to be counterfeit.
  4. Check the cardholder’s information: Make sure that the cardholder’s name, date of birth, and A-Number match the information on their identification documents. If there are discrepancies, the card may be fake.
  5. Use E-Verify: E-Verify is a free online system that allows employers to confirm the employment eligibility of new hires. By using E-Verify, you can help ensure that your employees are authorized to work in the U.S.
If you suspect that a green card is fake, it is important to report it to the Department of Homeland Security’s Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) division.
ICE is responsible for enforcing immigration laws and detecting and preventing the use of fake green cards.
If you have any doubts about the authenticity of a green card, it is best to contact the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) or seek the advice of an immigration attorney.
By taking these steps, you can help protect your business and ensure that your employees are authorized to live and work in the United States.

History of Permanent Resident Cards

Permanent Resident Cards, also known as Green Cards, are documents that allow foreign nationals to live and work in the United States permanently.
The history of these cards dates back to the early 20th century, when the government first began issuing them to non-citizens who had been granted permanent residence in the U.S.
The first Green Cards were issued by the Immigration and Naturalization Service (INS), a federal agency that was responsible for immigration and naturalization matters until 2003.
These older cards, also known as Form I-551, were made of paper and had a greenish-brown color, which is how they got their name. They were typically valid for two years and had to be renewed in order to maintain permanent residence status.
In the 1990s, the INS began issuing newer Green Cards made of plastic and with a more modern design. These cards, known as Form I-551, are the same size and shape as a standard credit card and have a glossy finish. They are valid for 10 years and can be renewed when they expire.
The newer Green Cards also have a number of security features to help prevent counterfeiting, including a holographic image and a machine-readable strip on the back.
One way to tell the difference between an older and newer Green Card is to look at the expiration date. Older Green Cards were typically valid for two years, while newer ones are valid for 10 years.
Additionally, the older Green Cards had the expiration date and the cardholder’s name printed on the front, while the newer ones have the expiration date and the cardholder’s name displayed on the back.
It is important to be able to recognize a real Green Card, as there are many fake or fraudulent versions in circulation. If you are an employer hiring an immigrant or an individual who has recently applied for a Green Card, it is important to verify the authenticity of the card.
If you are still not sure whether a Green Card is real or fake, you can contact the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) or the Department of Homeland Security’s Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) division for assistance.
Using a fake Green Card is a serious offense, and individuals who are caught using one can be deported and face criminal charges, including up to 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine for each offense.
It is important to remember that it is illegal to forge or reproduce a Green Card, and anyone who does so is committing a felony. If you are in possession of a fake Green Card, you should turn it in to the authorities immediately.