In an effort to increase the “security, integrity, and efficiency of document delivery”, the USCIS has announced that effective April 30, 2018, it will begin utilizing a new delivery method for “green cards”, employment authorization documents, and other travel documents such as re-entry permits.
The new method will require beneficiaries to present identification to confirm identity and to sign for their documents in order to receive delivery. This is of course not ideal for individuals not generally at home to accept such deliveries! An alternative exists to designate an agent to sign on the beneficiary’s behalf by completing either of the following:
- PS Form 3801, Standing Delivery Order (PDF)
- PS Form 3801-A, Agreement by a Hotel, Apartment House, or the Like (PDF)
Additionally, individuals can register for Informed Delivery through USPS to get daily images of all mail in transit. With Informed Delivery, an individual may digitally preview mail and manage packages. The system also provides the option to arrange for pickup at a post office at a convenient date and time by going to the USPS website and selecting “hold for pickup.”
In short, while the new mailing system will be more secure, it will also be far more onerous for beneficiaries and require action to various degrees in order to secure actual delivery. We recommend that beneficiaries with open cases start making arrangements for delivery now.
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