Key Takeaways
• “Card was picked up by USPS” means USPS collected your immigration card from USCIS for delivery.
• Most immigration cards arrive by First-Class Mail within 1 to 5 business days, usually under 3.
• Check USPS Tracking daily and update your USCIS address promptly to avoid delivery problems.
If you’ve recently checked the status of your immigration document and seen “Card was picked up by the United States Postal Service,” you’re probably feeling a mix of relief and anxiety. Relief, because your green card or other important document is finally on its way. Anxiety, because you want to make sure it arrives safely and you don’t miss any steps. This guide will walk you through exactly what this status means, what you need to do next, how to use USPS Tracking, and how to avoid common mistakes that could delay or complicate your delivery. By the end, you’ll know how to confidently handle this stage of the process and what to do if something goes wrong.
What You’ll Accomplish with This Guide:
– Understand what “Card was picked up by USPS” means for your immigration journey
– Learn who is eligible to receive cards by mail and what documents are involved
– Follow a clear, step-by-step process from tracking to delivery and pickup
– Know what documents and information you’ll need at every stage
– Get familiar with timelines, costs, and what to expect from USPS
– Avoid common pitfalls that can lead to lost or returned cards
– Find out what to do next if your card is delayed, lost, or returned
Let’s start by understanding the basics.
Eligibility: Who Receives Cards by Mail and What Documents Are Involved
Before diving into the process, it’s important to know who this guide is for and what types of cards are usually sent by mail.
Who Is Eligible?
– Immigrants approved for a green card (Permanent Resident Card)
– People receiving Employment Authorization Documents (EAD)
– Individuals approved for travel documents, such as Advance Parole
– Citizens receiving replacement naturalization or citizenship certificates
– Anyone who has requested a replacement or renewal of an immigration document
What Documents Are Sent?
– Green Card (Form I-551): Proof of lawful permanent residence in the United States 🇺🇸
– Employment Authorization Document (Form I-766): Allows you to work legally in the United States 🇺🇸
– Advance Parole Document (Form I-512): Lets you travel and return to the United States 🇺🇸 while your application is pending
– Replacement Citizenship or Naturalization Certificates
These documents are sent by the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) through the United States Postal Service (USPS).
Step-by-Step Process: From “Card Was Picked Up” to Delivery
Once your status says “Card was picked up by USPS,” here’s what happens next and what you should do at each stage.
1. USCIS Prepares and Mails Your Card
– After your application is approved, USCIS prints your card and prepares it for mailing.
– They use the address you provided on your application. If you’ve moved, you must update your address with USCIS using Form AR-11, Alien’s Change of Address Card.
2. USPS Collects the Card
– The status “Card was picked up by USPS” means USPS has collected your card from USCIS.
– Your card is now in the USPS mail system and will be delivered to the address on file.
3. USPS Tracking Number Is Assigned
– You will receive a USPS Tracking number. This number lets you follow your card’s journey online.
– You can find your tracking number in your USCIS online account or in the email or text message notification from USCIS.
4. Track Your Card Online
– Go to the USPS Tracking page and enter your tracking number.
– You’ll see updates like “In Transit,” “Out for Delivery,” or “Available for Pickup.”
– Tracking helps you know when to expect your card and if there are any delivery problems.
5. Delivery or Pickup
– Most cards are delivered directly to your mailbox.
– Sometimes, if the package requires a signature or is too large, USPS will leave a notice and hold the card at your local post office for pickup.
– If you get a notice, bring a government-issued photo ID (like a driver’s license or passport) to pick up your card.
6. Confirm Receipt
– Once you receive your card, check that your name and information are correct.
– If there are any mistakes, contact USCIS right away.
Required Documents and Information
To make sure you receive your card without problems, you’ll need to have certain documents and information ready:
- Government-issued photo ID: Needed if you have to pick up your card at the post office.
- USPS Tracking number: To follow your card’s journey.
- USCIS receipt number: In case you need to contact USCIS about your case.
- Proof of address: Sometimes required if there’s a delivery issue or if you need to prove your identity at the post office.
Where to Find Official Forms:
– Form AR-11, Alien’s Change of Address Card
– USPS Tracking page
Timelines and Costs: What to Expect
How Long Does Delivery Take?
– First-Class Mail: Most immigration cards are sent by First-Class Mail, which usually takes 1 to 5 business days.
– Service Standards: As of 2025, USPS aims to deliver most First-Class Mail within three days or less, but it can take up to five days depending on your location.
– Delays: Weather, holidays, or incorrect addresses can cause delays.
Are There Any Costs?
– USCIS Mailing: There is no extra cost for standard mailing of your card. The cost is included in your application fee.
– USPS Services: If you want to add extra services like signature confirmation or hold for pickup, you may need to pay a small fee at the post office.
How to Check Delivery Times:
– Visit the USPS Service Standards page for the latest information on delivery times.
Common Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them
Many people run into problems at this stage. Here are the most common issues and how to avoid them:
1. Wrong Address on File
– If you moved and didn’t update your address with USCIS, your card could be sent to the wrong place and returned.
– Solution: Always update your address with USCIS using Form AR-11 as soon as you move.
2. Not Checking USPS Tracking
– Some people miss delivery because they don’t track their card or don’t see the delivery notice.
– Solution: Check your USPS Tracking number daily once you see “Card was picked up by USPS.”
3. Not Picking Up the Card in Time
– If USPS holds your card at the post office, you usually have 15 days to pick it up. After that, it may be returned to USCIS.
– Solution: Go to the post office as soon as you get a pickup notice. Bring your ID.
4. Lost or Stolen Mail
– Rarely, cards can be lost or stolen in transit.
– Solution: If your tracking shows “Delivered” but you didn’t get your card, contact USPS immediately. Then contact USCIS to report the problem.
5. Signature Required but Not Home
– If your card needs a signature and you’re not home, USPS will leave a notice.
– Solution: Follow the instructions on the notice to reschedule delivery or pick up your card.
What to Do If There’s a Problem
If you run into any issues, here’s what you should do:
1. Card Not Delivered or Lost
– Check your USPS Tracking number for updates.
– If it says “Delivered” but you didn’t get it, ask neighbors or your building manager.
– If you still can’t find it, call USPS at 1-800-ASK-USPS (1-800-275-8777).
– If USPS can’t help, contact USCIS at 1-800-375-5283 or through your USCIS online account.
2. Card Returned to USCIS
– If you didn’t pick up your card in time or the address was wrong, USPS will return it to USCIS.
– USCIS will update your case status online.
– You may need to file a new form or pay a fee to have your card re-mailed.
3. Damaged or Incorrect Card
– If your card arrives damaged or with mistakes, contact USCIS right away.
– You may need to file Form I-90, Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card for a green card, or the correct replacement form for other documents.
How USPS Tracking Works and Why It Matters
USPS Tracking is your best tool for making sure your card arrives safely. Here’s how to use it:
- Find Your Tracking Number: It’s usually in your USCIS online account or in the email/text from USCIS.
- Check the Status: Go to the USPS Tracking page and enter your number.
- Understand the Updates: You’ll see messages like:
- “Card was picked up by USPS” (USPS has your card)
- “In Transit” (on the way)
- “Out for Delivery” (will arrive today)
- “Delivered” (should be in your mailbox)
- “Available for Pickup” (go to the post office)
- Act Quickly: If you see “Available for Pickup,” go to the post office with your ID as soon as possible.
According to analysis by VisaVerge.com, closely following your USPS Tracking updates is the best way to avoid missed deliveries or lost cards. Many problems can be prevented by simply checking your tracking status every day.
Recent Changes to USPS Delivery Standards
In 2025, USPS made some changes to improve delivery times and reliability:
- Two Phases of Changes: The first phase started April 1, and the second began July 1.
- Faster Delivery: Most First-Class Mail, including immigration cards, now has a service standard of three days or less.
- No Impact on Retail Services: You can still use your local post office as usual.
- Better Tracking: USPS continues to improve its tracking system so you can see real-time updates.
For the latest updates, visit the official USPS website.
Next Steps: What to Do After Receiving Your Card
Once your card arrives, you’re almost done—but there are a few important things to do:
1. Check Your Card Carefully
– Make sure your name, date of birth, and other details are correct.
– If you see any mistakes, contact USCIS right away.
2. Store Your Card Safely
– Your green card or other immigration document is very important. Keep it in a safe place.
– Don’t carry it with you unless you need it for work, travel, or identification.
3. Update Your Records
– If you used your card to apply for a job, driver’s license, or other services, update those records with your new card.
4. Know When to Renew
– Most cards have an expiration date. Mark your calendar so you can renew on time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What does “Card was picked up by USPS” mean?
A: It means USPS has collected your card from USCIS and is now responsible for delivering it to you.
Q: How do I track my card?
A: Use your USPS Tracking number on the USPS Tracking page.
Q: What if I miss the delivery?
A: USPS will leave a notice. Follow the instructions to pick up your card at the post office.
Q: What if my card is lost or stolen?
A: Contact USPS first, then USCIS if you can’t find your card.
Q: How long will USPS hold my card for pickup?
A: Usually 15 days, but check your notice for the exact time.
Summary and Takeaways
Seeing “Card was picked up by the United States Postal Service” is a positive sign that your immigration document is on its way. By following the steps in this guide—tracking your card, preparing your documents, and acting quickly if there’s a problem—you can make sure your card arrives safely and avoid common mistakes. Remember to keep your address updated, check your USPS Tracking number daily, and contact USPS or USCIS right away if anything goes wrong.
For more information, always use official sources like the USPS website and your USCIS online account. Staying informed and proactive is the best way to protect your important immigration documents and keep your journey on track.
Learn Today
USCIS → United States Citizenship and Immigration Services, the agency that issues immigration documents.
USPS → United States Postal Service, the federal mail carrier delivering immigration cards.
Green Card → Permanent Resident Card proving lawful permanent residence in the United States.
Employment Authorization Document → Form I-766 allowing immigrants to work legally in the U.S.
Advance Parole → Travel document enabling re-entry to the U.S. during immigration application processing.
This Article in a Nutshell
When your status says “Card was picked up by USPS,” your immigration document is en route. Track your card online, prepare ID for delivery or pickup, and update your address to ensure safe, timely arrival. Acting quickly avoids delays, lost mail, or returned documents in this crucial final step.
— By VisaVerge.com
