Key Takeaways
• Renew your regular green card online if expired or expiring within six months using Form I-90.
• Pay $540 total fee online, upload documents, digitally sign, and track case on USCIS account.
• Attend biometrics appointment; USCIS stopped issuing RFEs or NOIDs for renewals since January 20, 2025.
Renewing your green card is an important step to keep your legal status as a permanent resident in the United States 🇺🇸. Many people wonder if they can handle the entire green card renewal process online. The answer is yes, you can complete almost all steps online, but there are some important details and exceptions you need to know. This guide will walk you through the full online green card renewal process, highlight common mistakes, and provide practical tips to help you avoid delays.
Introduction: Why Renew Your Green Card Online?
Your green card proves you are a lawful permanent resident in the United States 🇺🇸. If your card is about to expire, has already expired, or has been lost, stolen, or damaged, you must renew it to keep your proof of status up to date. The United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) now allows most people to renew their green card online, making the process faster and easier than ever before.
Renewing online means you can:
- Submit your application from anywhere with internet access
- Upload documents electronically
- Pay fees online
- Track your case status in real time
- Receive updates and notices quickly
However, not everyone can use the online process. Some people, such as those applying for a fee waiver or holders of a conditional green card, must use a different method. This guide will help you understand if you qualify for online renewal and show you every step to complete your green card renewal using the online system.
Step 1: Check If You Are Eligible to Renew Online
Before you start, make sure you are eligible to renew your green card online. You can use the online process if:
- You have a regular (10-year) green card that is expired or will expire within the next six months
- Your green card has been lost, stolen, or damaged
- You are not applying for a fee waiver
- You are not a conditional permanent resident (with a 2-year green card)
You cannot renew online if:
- You are applying for a fee waiver (you must file by mail)
- You have a 2-year conditional green card (you must use Form I-751 or Form I-829)
- You are outside the United States 🇺🇸 and your green card has expired (special steps apply)
If you are eligible, you can move forward with the online process.
Step 2: Create a USCIS Online Account
To renew your green card online, you must first create a USCIS online account. This account lets you:
- Fill out and submit Form I-90 online
- Upload your supporting documents
- Pay your filing fee
- Track your case status
- Receive important messages from USCIS
How to create your account:
- Go to the USCIS online account page.
- Click “Sign Up.”
- Enter your email address and create a password.
- Follow the instructions to verify your email.
- Set up your security questions for added protection.
Time estimate: Setting up your account usually takes about 10-15 minutes.
Tip: Use an email address you check often, as USCIS will send updates and requests to this address.
Step 3: Complete Form I-90 Online
Form I-90, Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card, is the official form for green card renewal. You can find the latest version and instructions on the USCIS Form I-90 page.
Steps to complete Form I-90:
- Log in to your USCIS online account.
- Select “File a Form Online.”
- Choose “Form I-90.”
- Answer all questions honestly and carefully. You will need to provide:
- Your name, address, and contact information
- Your Alien Registration Number (A-Number)
- Details about your current green card (number, expiration date, etc.)
- Information about why you are renewing or replacing your card
Time estimate: Filling out Form I-90 online usually takes 30-45 minutes if you have your information ready.
Tip: Double-check all information before moving on. Mistakes can cause delays or even denial.
Step 4: Upload Supporting Documents
USCIS requires you to upload certain documents to support your green card renewal. The most common document is a copy of your current or expired green card.
What to upload:
- A clear copy of the front and back of your current or expired green card
- If your card was lost or stolen, include a copy of any police report (if available)
- If your name has changed, include a copy of the legal document showing the change (like a marriage certificate or court order)
How to upload:
- Scan or take clear photos of your documents
- Make sure the files are easy to read and in an accepted format (PDF, JPG, or PNG)
- Upload each document in the correct section of the online application
Time estimate: Uploading documents usually takes 10-20 minutes.
Tip: Make sure your documents are not blurry or cut off. Poor quality images can slow down your application.
Step 5: Review and Digitally Sign Your Application
Before you submit, carefully review all your answers and uploaded documents. The online system will show you a summary of your application.
What to check:
- All personal information is correct
- Uploaded documents are clear and complete
- No sections are left blank unless they do not apply to you
Once you are sure everything is correct, you will be asked to digitally sign your application. This means you agree that all information is true and complete.
Tip: Take your time with this step. Fix any mistakes now to avoid problems later.
Step 6: Pay the Filing Fee
The current filing fee for Form I-90 is $455, plus an $85 biometric services fee (for fingerprinting and photos), for a total of $540. You must pay this fee online using:
- Credit card
- Debit card
- Prepaid card
- Bank withdrawal (ACH)
How to pay:
- The system will guide you to the payment page after you sign your application.
- Enter your payment information and confirm the payment.
Important: If you want to request a fee waiver, you cannot file online. You must use the paper process and submit Form I-912, Request for Fee Waiver, by mail.
Tip: Save your payment confirmation for your records.
Step 7: Submit Your Application and Get Your Receipt
After you pay, submit your application. USCIS will send you a receipt notice (Form I-797C) electronically to your online account. This notice proves you have filed your green card renewal and can be used as proof of your status while your new card is being processed.
What happens next:
- You can download and print your receipt notice from your online account.
- USCIS may send you messages or requests for more information through your account.
- You can check your case status at any time by logging in.
Tip: Keep your receipt notice safe. You may need it for work, travel, or other official purposes.
Step 8: Attend Your Biometrics Appointment (If Required)
Most applicants must attend a biometrics appointment at a local USCIS Application Support Center. At this appointment, USCIS will take your fingerprints, photo, and signature.
What to expect:
- USCIS will send you an appointment notice with the date, time, and location.
- Bring your appointment notice and a valid photo ID (like a passport or driver’s license).
- The appointment usually takes about 30 minutes.
Tip: Arrive on time and follow all instructions in your appointment notice.
Step 9: Track Your Case and Respond to USCIS Requests
You can track your green card renewal case at any time by logging into your USCIS online account. USCIS will post updates, notices, and any requests for more information in your account.
What to watch for:
- Case status updates: See when your application is being reviewed, when your biometrics are received, and when your new card is mailed.
- Requests for more information: If USCIS needs more documents or details, respond quickly through your online account.
Tip: Check your account regularly so you don’t miss any important messages.
Step 10: Receive Your New Green Card
Once USCIS approves your application, they will mail your new green card to the address you provided. You will get a notification in your online account when your card is sent.
What to do:
- Make sure your mailing address is up to date in your USCIS account.
- If you move, update your address right away using your online account or the USCIS Change of Address page.
- When your new card arrives, check it for any errors.
Tip: If you do not receive your card within 30 days of the mailing notice, contact USCIS for help.
Common Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them
Many applicants make simple mistakes that can slow down or even stop their green card renewal. Here are some common problems and how to avoid them:
- Incorrect or missing information: Double-check all answers on Form I-90 before submitting.
- Blurry or incomplete document uploads: Make sure all documents are clear and complete.
- Using the wrong form: Conditional green card holders must use Form I-751 or Form I-829, not Form I-90.
- Not checking your USCIS account: You might miss important updates or requests.
- Applying for a fee waiver online: Fee waivers are not allowed for online filing; use the paper process instead.
Troubleshooting: What to Do If You Have Problems
If you run into issues during your green card renewal, here are some steps you can take:
- Forgot your USCIS account password: Use the “Forgot Password” link on the login page to reset it.
- Technical problems with the website: Try a different browser or device, or contact the USCIS Contact Center at 1-800-375-5283.
- Did not receive your receipt notice: Check your spam or junk email folder, and log in to your account to see if it is posted there.
- Need to update your address: Use your online account or the USCIS Change of Address page.
- Lost your green card while abroad: Contact the nearest U.S. consulate or port of entry for help before filing Form I-90.
Checklist: Green Card Renewal Online
Before you start, use this checklist to make sure you have everything you need:
- [ ] Regular (10-year) green card that is expired or expiring soon
- [ ] Access to a computer or smartphone with internet
- [ ] USCIS online account
- [ ] Clear digital copy of your current or expired green card
- [ ] Payment method (credit/debit card, bank account)
- [ ] Valid email address
- [ ] Time to complete the process (about 1-2 hours total)
Recent Changes and What They Mean for You
As of January 20, 2025, USCIS officers no longer issue Requests for Evidence (RFEs) or Notices of Intent to Deny (NOIDs) for green card renewal applications. This change is meant to make the process faster and less stressful for applicants. According to analysis by VisaVerge.com, this policy helps reduce delays and makes it easier for people to renew their green cards without extra paperwork.
USCIS also continues to improve its online services, making it easier to file and track your application. Experts recommend using the online system whenever possible for the fastest and most convenient experience.
Official Resources
For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always use official government resources:
- USCIS Form I-90 page – Official form and instructions
- USCIS Green Card Renewal Information – Detailed renewal guidance
- USCIS Online Account Portal – Create or access your account
- USCIS Contact Center – Get help by phone or online
Conclusion and Next Steps
Renewing your green card online is the fastest and easiest way for most permanent residents to keep their status up to date. By following the steps in this guide, you can complete your green card renewal from start to finish without mailing any paperwork. Remember to check your eligibility, gather your documents, and use your USCIS online account to stay on top of your case.
If you are not eligible for online renewal—such as if you need a fee waiver or have a conditional green card—follow the special instructions for your situation. Always use official USCIS resources and keep your information up to date.
By staying organized and following these steps, you can avoid delays and keep your legal status secure in the United States 🇺🇸.
Learn Today
Green Card → Proof of lawful permanent resident status in the United States, usually valid for 10 years.
Form I-90 → Official USCIS form used to apply for renewing or replacing a green card online.
USCIS → United States Citizenship and Immigration Services, the government agency handling immigration and green card processes.
Biometrics Appointment → USCIS procedure where fingerprints, photo, and signature are collected for identity verification.
Fee Waiver → An exemption from paying USCIS filing fees, available only through paper application, not online.
This Article in a Nutshell
Renewing your green card online with USCIS saves time and effort. Use Form I-90, upload documents, pay fees, and track status easily via your online account. Check eligibility upfront. Avoid common mistakes like missing documents or wrong forms. Follow the full process for fastest renewal without mailing paperwork.
— By VisaVerge.com
