On July 24, 2025, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) issued a critical reminder to all green card holders: you must carry proof of your lawful permanent resident status at all times. This requirement, mandated by the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) Section 264(e), applies to all non-citizens aged 18 and older who remain in the U.S. for 30 days or longer. Failure to present a valid green card (Form I-551) when requested by ICE or other federal authorities is a misdemeanor, punishable by a fine of up to $100, up to 30 days in jail, or both. With increased immigration enforcement in 2025, Truong Law Firm, PLLC helps Vietnamese green card holders stay compliant and avoid penalties.

Why Must Green Card Holders Carry Proof of Status?

The INA requires lawful permanent residents (LPRs) to carry their green card (Form I-551) as proof of their right to live and work in the U.S. This rule, in place for decades, was re-emphasized in 2025 due to stricter enforcement by CBP and ICE, especially under Executive Order 14159 (January 20, 2025), which prioritizes immigration compliance. CBP’s warning highlights that “lawful permanent residency is a privilege, not a right,” and failure to show proof during encounters with authorities can lead to delays, detention, or even removal proceedings, particularly for those with criminal records or extended absences from the U.S. (over 180 days).

When Might ICE or CBP Verify Your Status?

• At Ports of Entry: When returning from international travel, especially after trips longer than 180 days, CBP may conduct secondary inspections to verify your status and intent to maintain U.S. residency.
• During ICE Encounters: ICE may request your green card during workplace raids, community sweeps, or courthouse arrests, which have increased under 2025’s “Operation At Large” targeting 3,000 daily detentions.
• Daily Life: Random checks by federal or local law enforcement cooperating with ICE (under INA Section 287(g)) may require you to show your green card.
• Special Cases: If you have a criminal record (even minor or resolved), ICE may scrutinize your status, increasing the risk of detention or deportation proceedings.

Penalties for Not Carrying Proof

Failing to carry your green card is a federal misdemeanor under 8 U.S.C. § 1304(e). Penalties include:

• Fine: Up to $100.
• Jail Time: Up to 30 days.
• Additional Risks: Non-compliance may lead to detention, delays at ports of entry, or referral to removal proceedings, especially if other red flags (e.g., criminal history, prolonged absence) are present. In rare cases, it could be used to question your moral character during citizenship applications.

While prosecutions for this specific offense are uncommon, the 2025 enforcement climate under the Trump administration makes compliance critical. Posts on X reflect public concern, with some users noting that ICE may use this misdemeanor as grounds for further scrutiny.

What to Do If You Can’t Carry Your Green Card

• Lost or Stolen Green Card: File Form I-90 (Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card) immediately, costing $415 (as of April 1, 2024). Request an I-551 stamp from USCIS as temporary proof while waiting for a replacement.
• Traveling Abroad: If you lose your green card overseas, contact a U.S. consulate for a boarding foil to re-enter the U.S.
• Digital Copies: High-resolution scans on your phone can serve as a backup but may not be accepted in all situations. Always carry the physical card when possible.
• Expired Green Card: File Form I-90 at least six months before expiration to avoid issues during travel or employment verification.

Your Rights During ICE Encounters

• Remain Silent: You are not required to discuss your immigration history without a lawyer present.
• Show Proof: If you have your green card, you must present it when asked by ICE or CBP.
• Request a Lawyer: If detained, you have the right to consult an attorney, though the government does not provide one for immigration cases.
• Avoid False Documents: Never carry or present fraudulent documents, as this can lead to deportation or criminal charges.

How Truong Law Firm, PLLC Can Help

At Truong Law Firm, PLLC, we specialize in helping Vietnamese green card holders maintain their status and avoid penalties:

• Form I-90 Assistance: We guide you through replacing lost, stolen, or expired green cards.
• Legal Advice for ICE Encounters: We advise on your rights and prepare you for potential verification checks.
• Criminal Record Review: If you have a past conviction, we assess risks to your status and provide solutions to prevent deportation.
• K-1 and Marriage-Based Green Card Support: For clients transitioning from K-1 visas or adjusting status, we ensure compliance with all immigration requirements, including carrying proof of status.
• B1/B2 Visa Renewals: We help renew travel visas before the September 2, 2025, interview mandate to support your immigration needs.