What does “Card Was Picked Up By The Usps” mean?

Good news
Direct answer

USCIS handed your card to USPS for delivery. The card is in the mail system and on its way to your address on file.

What comes next

Use any available USCIS or USPS tracking information and watch for delivery. Follow USCIS's current non-delivery instructions if it does not arrive.

Typical timeline

Delivery timing varies. Use available tracking information and USCIS's current non-delivery process.

If you're stuck on this status

If delivery fails, follow the current USCIS instructions for the exact document. Do not infer a replacement form or fee from a generic elapsed time.

What to do now
  • 1Watch your mailbox and available tracking information
  • 2Check USPS Informed Delivery (informeddelivery.usps.com) for tracking notifications
  • 3Do not travel internationally until the physical card is in hand (for green cards/AP)
  • 4Follow USCIS non-delivery instructions if the card does not arrive
When to contact an attorney

You usually do not need an attorney for this status by itself. Consider legal help if your case is outside published processing times, you receive a confusing notice, or your facts are complicated.

Frequently asked questions

How do I track my USCIS card delivery?
Use any USPS tracking information USCIS provides and consider USPS Informed Delivery as a supplementary preview. Availability varies by mailing and address.
What if I miss the delivery?
Delivery handling depends on the USPS service and address. Follow the tracking details, secure the mailbox, and act promptly on any USPS pickup or USCIS non-delivery notice.
My card was returned to USCIS. What do I do?
Update your address through the current USCIS channel, then follow the card non-delivery or re-mailing instructions. Save both confirmations; re-mailing has no universal published period.
Can I have my card delivered to a different address?
USCIS mails cards to the address on file at the time of approval. Updating your address in your USCIS online account before production is the best approach. Once a card is produced and mailed, there is no way to redirect it.
Is 'Card Picked Up by USPS' the same as 'Card Was Mailed'?
Both statuses concern mailing, but rely on the exact current status and any tracking number USCIS provides. Neither message guarantees a delivery date.

Related status messages

We Ordered Your New Card →Card Was Mailed →Card Was Returned →
Official and related resources
Check your official USCIS case status →Check USCIS processing times →Compare timelines by USCIS form →Browse the USCIS status glossary →

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Related
Use the interactive decoder →See current USCIS processing times →Status: We Ordered Your New Card→Status: Case Was Rejected Because It Was Not Properly Filed→Status: Fees Were Waived→What Every USCIS Case Status Actually Means (2026 Guide)→USCIS Processing Times 2026: How to Check the Official Tool→

GreenLight is an independent tool and is NOT affiliated with USCIS, DHS, or any U.S. government agency. Nothing on this page constitutes legal advice. Always verify at my.uscis.gov.