Q: What is the difference between rescission and revocation of a green card?

A: Rescission and revocation are both processes that can lead to the loss of Lawful Permanent Resident (LPR) status. Rescission applies to individuals who adjusted their status in the U.S. and happens when USCIS grants LPR status in error. USCIS must initiate it within five years of adjustment. Revocation, on the other hand, can happen at any time based on new information, such as fraud or violations, and applies to both green cards obtained through adjustment of status and those issued through immigrant visas at a U.S. embassy or consulate.