Key Takeaways
• Start Green Card renewal six months before expiration to avoid legal and travel problems.
• USCIS extends Green Card validity for pending renewals up to 36 months from September 10, 2024.
• Current Form I-90 fee is $540, including $85 biometric services if required.
If you are a lawful permanent resident in the United States 🇺🇸, your Green Card is one of the most important documents you own. It proves your right to live and work in the country, and it is required for many everyday activities, from getting a job to traveling outside the United States 🇺🇸. Green Cards, officially called Permanent Resident Cards, are usually valid for ten years. When your card is close to expiring, you need to renew it to keep your legal status and avoid problems with work, travel, or government benefits.
This guide will walk you through the Green Card renewal process step by step. You will learn when to start, how to apply, what documents you need, and how to avoid common mistakes. We will also cover the latest changes from U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), including the new 36-month validity extension for pending renewals. By following these instructions, you can make sure your Green Card renewal goes smoothly and you keep your status as a lawful permanent resident.
Why Renewing Your Green Card Matters
Your Green Card is more than just a piece of plastic. It is your proof of legal residency in the United States 🇺🇸. If your card expires, you could face serious problems:
- You may not be able to prove your right to work.
- You could have trouble re-entering the United States 🇺🇸 after traveling abroad.
- You might lose access to some government benefits.
- You could face delays or problems if you apply for U.S. citizenship.
Because of these risks, it is very important to renew your Green Card before it expires. The renewal process is managed by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), and there are clear steps you need to follow.
When Should You Start the Green Card Renewal Process?
Start your Green Card renewal process at least six months before your card expires. This gives you enough time to gather documents, fill out forms, and deal with any unexpected problems.
Important:
– You cannot apply more than six months before your card’s expiration date. If you apply too early, USCIS may reject or delay your application.
– If your Green Card is already expired, apply for renewal as soon as possible. Do not wait, as an expired card can cause legal and practical problems.
Step-by-Step Guide to Green Card Renewal
1. Check Your Eligibility
Before you start, make sure you are eligible to renew your Green Card. You can renew if:
- You are a lawful permanent resident of the United States 🇺🇸.
- Your Green Card is expired or will expire within the next six months.
- You have not been convicted of crimes that would make you ineligible for renewal.
If you are not sure about your eligibility, check the USCIS Green Card renewal page or talk to an immigration lawyer.
2. Gather Your Documents
You will need several documents to complete your Green Card renewal:
- A copy of your current Green Card (front and back).
- A valid passport, if you have one.
- Any other immigration documents you have received from USCIS.
- Proof of any legal name changes, if your name has changed since your last card was issued.
Tip:
Make clear, color copies of your documents. Do not send original documents unless USCIS specifically asks for them.
3. Fill Out Form I-90
The main form for Green Card renewal is Form I-90, Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card. You can fill out this form online or print it and fill it out by hand.
How to get Form I-90:
– Download the latest version from the official USCIS website.
– Read the instructions carefully before you start.
Key information you will need to provide:
– Your full name, date of birth, and current address.
– Your Alien Registration Number (A-Number), found on your Green Card.
– Details about your current Green Card, including the card number and expiration date.
– Information about any legal name changes or changes in personal information.
Common mistakes to avoid:
– Leaving required fields blank.
– Using an outdated version of the form.
– Providing incorrect or inconsistent information.
4. Submit Your Application
You can submit your Form I-90 in two ways:
a. Online Submission
- Create a USCIS online account at my.uscis.gov.
- Complete the Form I-90 online.
- Upload digital copies of your supporting documents.
- Pay the filing fee online.
- Receive a confirmation and receipt number immediately.
b. Mail Submission
- Print and complete Form I-90.
- Attach copies of your supporting documents.
- Include a check or money order for the filing fee, made out to “U.S. Department of Homeland Security.”
- Mail your application to the address listed in the Form I-90 instructions.
Tip:
Online submission is usually faster and lets you track your application status easily.
5. Pay the Required Fees
The current fee for Form I-90 is $540. This includes a $455 filing fee and an $85 biometric services fee (if required).
- Check the latest fee amount on the USCIS fee schedule.
- Pay online with a credit card, debit card, or bank transfer if filing online.
- If mailing your application, include a check or money order.
Important:
USCIS will not process your application until you pay the full fee. If you cannot afford the fee, you may be able to request a fee waiver, but you must meet strict requirements.
6. Attend Your Biometrics Appointment
After you submit your application, USCIS may schedule you for a biometrics appointment. This means you will need to go to a local USCIS office to have your fingerprints, photo, and signature taken.
- USCIS will send you an appointment notice with the date, time, and location.
- Bring your appointment notice and a valid photo ID (such as your passport or driver’s license).
- Arrive on time. If you miss your appointment, your application may be delayed or denied.
Tip:
If you cannot attend your scheduled appointment, follow the instructions on your notice to reschedule as soon as possible.
7. Track Your Application Status
Once you submit your application, you will receive a receipt notice (Form I-797C, Notice of Action) with a receipt number. Use this number to check your case status online at the USCIS Case Status page.
- Check your status regularly for updates.
- Respond quickly to any requests for more information (RFEs) from USCIS.
How Long Does Green Card Renewal Take?
Processing times for Green Card renewal can change based on USCIS workload and other factors. In the past, it often took 8 to 12 months to get a new card. However, recent data shows that the average processing time for Form I-90 is now about 0.9 months (less than one month), though this can vary.
Check the latest processing times on the USCIS Processing Times page.
New Validity Extension for Green Card Renewals
As of September 10, 2024, USCIS has extended the validity extension for Green Card renewals to 36 months. This means that after you file Form I-90, your receipt notice will serve as proof that your Green Card is valid for an extra 36 months past the expiration date printed on your card.
Why is this important?
– You can continue to work and travel while your renewal is pending.
– Employers and border officials should accept your expired Green Card together with your receipt notice as proof of your legal status.
Keep your receipt notice with your expired Green Card at all times until you receive your new card.
As reported by VisaVerge.com, this change gives applicants more peace of mind and reduces the risk of problems while waiting for their new card.
Common Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them
Many applicants make mistakes that can delay or even stop their Green Card renewal. Here are some common problems and how to avoid them:
- Applying too early: Do not submit your application more than six months before your card expires.
- Using an old version of Form I-90: Always download the latest form from the USCIS website.
- Not paying the full fee: Double-check the fee amount and payment method.
- Missing the biometrics appointment: Always attend or reschedule if you cannot make it.
- Ignoring USCIS requests: Respond quickly to any requests for more information or documents.
- Sending original documents: Only send copies unless USCIS asks for originals.
- Not keeping copies: Make and keep copies of everything you send to USCIS.
Troubleshooting and What to Do If Problems Arise
If you run into problems during your Green Card renewal, here’s what you can do:
- If your application is rejected: Read the rejection notice carefully. Fix the problem and reapply as soon as possible.
- If you do not receive your receipt notice: Contact USCIS using the information on their Contact Us page.
- If your case is delayed: Check your status online and call USCIS if your case is outside normal processing times.
- If you lose your receipt notice: Request a replacement from USCIS right away.
- If you need to travel urgently: Make an appointment at your local USCIS office (InfoPass) to get temporary proof of your status.
Checklist Summary: Green Card Renewal
Before you start, use this checklist to make sure you are ready:
- [ ] My Green Card is expired or will expire within six months.
- [ ] I am a lawful permanent resident of the United States 🇺🇸.
- [ ] I have not been convicted of crimes that make me ineligible.
- [ ] I have a copy of my current Green Card.
- [ ] I have a valid passport or other ID.
- [ ] I have proof of any name changes.
- [ ] I have downloaded the latest Form I-90 from the USCIS website.
- [ ] I have filled out the form completely and accurately.
- [ ] I have paid the correct fee.
- [ ] I have copies of all documents and my application.
- [ ] I am ready to attend my biometrics appointment if required.
- [ ] I will keep my receipt notice with my expired Green Card until I get my new card.
Final Tips and Next Steps
- Start your Green Card renewal at least six months before your card expires.
- Keep your receipt notice with your expired card at all times.
- Check the USCIS website regularly for updates on processing times and policy changes.
- If you have questions, contact USCIS or speak with an immigration lawyer.
By following these steps, you can renew your Green Card smoothly and keep your legal status in the United States 🇺🇸. The new 36-month validity extension gives you more time and flexibility, but it is still important to plan ahead and avoid common mistakes.
Remember, your Green Card is your proof of permanent residency. Take care of it, renew it on time, and keep all your documents safe. If you follow this guide, you will be well prepared for a successful Green Card renewal process.
Learn Today
Green Card → Official Permanent Resident Card proving legal residency and work authorization in the U.S.
Form I-90 → USCIS application form used to renew or replace a Green Card.
Biometric Services → Fingerprinting, photo, and signature collection USCIS requires for applicant identification.
Receipt Notice → USCIS confirmation document with a case number after application submission.
Validity Extension → Temporary extension allowing use of an expired Green Card with receipt notice during renewal.
This Article in a Nutshell
Renew your Green Card timely to maintain U.S. permanent residency rights. Follow USCIS instructions, prepare documents, submit Form I-90, and track status. Benefit from a new 36-month validity extension allowing continued work and travel while renewal processes.
— By VisaVerge.com
