Key Takeaways
• USCIS extends green card renewal validity 36 months from expiration with new Form I-90 edition required by January 20, 2025.
• Expired green cards do not terminate legal status but cause issues with work, travel, and identification until renewal is filed.
• No Requests for Evidence or Intent to Deny notices are issued for renewals, making complete application submission critical.
If Your Green Card Expires Before Renewal: What It Means for Your Legal Status and Daily Life
As of June 15, 2025, important changes have shaped how lawful permanent residents (LPRs) in the United States 🇺🇸 handle green card renewal. The United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has updated several policies, including extending the automatic validity period for green card renewal applicants and introducing new editions of required forms. But what happens if you don’t start the green card renewal process before your card expires? Here’s what you need to know, how it affects your legal status, and what steps you should take to avoid problems.
Who Is Affected and Why This Matters
Anyone holding a green card—officially called a Permanent Resident Card—must renew it every ten years. If you let your green card expire without starting the renewal process, you remain a lawful permanent resident, but you lose your main proof of that status. This can cause problems with work, travel, and daily life. The recent changes from USCIS, especially the 36-month extension for renewal applicants, give people more time, but do not remove the need to act quickly.
What’s New in 2025: Key Policy Changes
USCIS has made several updates that affect green card renewal:
- 36-Month Validity Extension: If you file for green card renewal, the receipt notice you get from USCIS now automatically extends your card’s validity for 36 months from the expiration date. This gives you more time to complete the process without losing proof of your status.
- New Form I-90 Edition Required: As of January 20, 2025, you must use the new 01/20/25 edition of Form I-90 to renew or replace your green card.
- No More Requests for Evidence (RFEs) or Notices of Intent to Deny: USCIS officers no longer send these notices for green card renewals. This means your application will be processed based on what you submit, so it’s important to include all required documents the first time.
These changes aim to make the process clearer and give applicants more security while waiting for their new card.
What Happens If You Don’t Renew Before Your Card Expires?
Your Legal Status
You do not lose your legal status as a lawful permanent resident if your green card expires. The expiration date on your card only affects the card itself, not your underlying status. You are still allowed to live and work in the United States 🇺🇸. However, you won’t have a valid card to prove it.
Real-World Problems Without a Valid Green Card
Even though your status remains, not having a valid green card can cause serious problems:
- Employment: Most employers must check your work authorization. Without a valid green card, you may have trouble proving you’re allowed to work. Some employers may not accept an expired card, even if you show a renewal receipt.
- Travel: If you want to travel outside the United States 🇺🇸, you need a valid green card to re-enter. Airlines and border officials may not let you board or return if your card is expired.
- Driver’s License and State ID: Many states require a valid green card to issue or renew a driver’s license or state ID. An expired card can make this process difficult or impossible.
- Access to Services: Some banks, schools, and government agencies may ask for a valid green card to open accounts, enroll, or access benefits.
Can You Still Renew After Expiration?
Yes, you can still file Form I-90 to renew your green card after it expires. There is no penalty for late renewal, but the longer you wait, the more likely you are to face the problems listed above. It’s best to start the process at least six months before your card’s expiration date.
Step-by-Step: How to Renew Your Green Card
Renewing your green card is a straightforward process if you follow the steps carefully. Here’s what you need to do:
1. Check Your Eligibility
Most lawful permanent residents with a 10-year green card are eligible to renew. If you have a conditional green card (valid for two years), you need to file a different form (Form I-751 or I-829), not Form I-90.
2. Download and Complete the Latest Form I-90
USCIS now requires the 01/20/25 edition of Form I-90. Make sure you use this version, or your application may be rejected. You can fill out the form online or print and mail it.
3. Gather Required Documents
You’ll need:
- A copy of your expired or expiring green card (front and back)
- Two passport-style photos (if requested)
- Any other documents USCIS asks for, such as a police report if your card was lost or stolen
4. Pay the Filing Fee
As of June 2025, the fee for Form I-90 is $455, plus an $85 biometric services fee, for a total of $540. Some applicants may qualify for a fee waiver if they can’t afford to pay.
5. Submit Your Application
You can file Form I-90 online or mail it to the address listed on the USCIS website. Filing online is faster and lets you track your case.
6. Receive Your Receipt Notice
After you file, USCIS will send you a receipt notice (Form I-797). This notice now automatically extends your green card’s validity for 36 months from the expiration date. Keep this notice with your expired card as proof of your status.
7. Attend Your Biometrics Appointment
USCIS will schedule you for a biometrics appointment, where they’ll take your fingerprints and photo. This is a routine part of the process.
8. Wait for Your New Card
Processing times vary, but the 36-month extension gives you plenty of time to receive your new card before your proof of status runs out.
What If You Need Proof of Status While Waiting?
If you need to prove your status for work, travel, or other reasons while waiting for your new card, show your expired green card and the receipt notice from USCIS. Most employers and agencies should accept this combination as proof that you’re still a lawful permanent resident.
If you have urgent travel needs, you can request an “I-551 stamp” in your passport from your local USCIS office. This stamp serves as temporary proof of your status and is usually valid for up to one year.
Why Timely Renewal Still Matters
While the 36-month extension gives you more time, it’s still important to renew your green card before it expires if possible. Here’s why:
- Avoid Gaps in Proof: Some employers or agencies may not understand the new rules and could refuse to accept your expired card and receipt notice.
- Travel Delays: If you need to travel, having a valid card makes everything easier. Getting an I-551 stamp can take time and may require an appointment.
- Peace of Mind: Renewing early means you won’t have to worry about last-minute problems or delays.
Background: How the Green Card Renewal Process Has Changed
Before 2025
In the past, USCIS would only extend the validity of your green card for a shorter period (often 12 or 24 months) after you filed for renewal. This sometimes led to problems if your case took longer to process.
2024 and Beyond
USCIS extended the automatic validity period to 36 months for all green card renewal applicants. This change is reflected in the language on the receipt notice you receive after filing Form I-90. The goal is to give applicants more security and reduce the risk of losing proof of status while waiting for a new card.
New Form Editions
USCIS regularly updates its forms. As of January 20, 2025, you must use the new edition of Form I-90. Using an old version can lead to rejection and delays.
No More RFEs or Notices of Intent to Deny
USCIS officers no longer send Requests for Evidence (RFEs) or Notices of Intent to Deny for green card renewals. This means your application will be decided based on what you submit. If you forget to include something, your application could be denied without warning. Double-check your documents before sending them.
What Experts Say
Immigration experts stress that while your legal status does not expire with your card, your ability to prove it does. According to analysis by VisaVerge.com, the new 36-month extension is a helpful change, but it’s not a substitute for timely renewal. Experts recommend starting the renewal process at least six months before your card expires to avoid any gaps in proof or unexpected problems.
Implications for Different Groups
Immigrants and Families
For most green card holders, the biggest concern is being able to prove their status for work, travel, and daily life. Families with children may also need valid cards for school enrollment or benefits.
Employers
Employers must verify that workers are authorized to work in the United States 🇺🇸. They should accept an expired green card with a valid receipt notice as proof, but not all employers are familiar with the new rules. This can lead to confusion or delays in hiring or continuing employment.
Students
Students may need a valid green card for school enrollment, scholarships, or financial aid. An expired card can cause problems, so renewing on time is important.
Travelers
Anyone planning to travel outside the United States 🇺🇸 should renew their green card before leaving. Airlines and border officials may not let you board or return with an expired card, even if you have a receipt notice.
What to Watch For: Future Changes
Immigration policies can change quickly. USCIS may update forms, fees, or procedures at any time. The current focus is on fraud detection and making the process smoother for applicants. It’s important to check the USCIS website regularly for the latest updates.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I be deported if my green card expires?
A: No. Your status as a lawful permanent resident does not end when your card expires. However, you must renew your card to keep valid proof of your status.
Q: What if I lost my green card?
A: File Form I-90 to replace it as soon as possible. If you need proof of status urgently, request an I-551 stamp from USCIS.
Q: How long does green card renewal take?
A: Processing times vary, but the 36-month extension on your receipt notice gives you plenty of time to receive your new card.
Q: Can I renew my green card if I’m outside the United States 🇺🇸?
A: You must be in the United States 🇺🇸 to receive your new card. If you’re abroad and your card expires, contact the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate for help.
Practical Tips for a Smooth Renewal
- Start Early: Begin the renewal process at least six months before your card expires.
- Use the Correct Form: Always use the latest edition of Form I-90.
- Double-Check Documents: Make sure you include all required documents and fees.
- Keep Your Receipt Notice: Carry your expired card and receipt notice together as proof of status.
- Stay Informed: Check the USCIS website for updates.
Official Resources
For the most accurate and up-to-date information, visit the USCIS Green Card Renewal page. You can also call USCIS at 1-800-375-5283 (TTY 1-800-767-1833) for help.
Conclusion: Take Action to Protect Your Status
Letting your green card expire does not end your legal status, but it does make life harder. The new 36-month extension for renewal applicants gives you more time, but it’s still best to renew early. Use the correct Form I-90, keep your documents safe, and stay informed about policy changes. By acting promptly, you can avoid problems with work, travel, and daily life, and keep your path to citizenship open.
If you have questions or run into problems, talk to an immigration lawyer or check the USCIS website for official guidance. Staying proactive is the best way to protect your future in the United States 🇺🇸.
Learn Today
Green Card → An identification card proving lawful permanent residency in the United States.
USCIS → United States Citizenship and Immigration Services responsible for immigration processes including green card renewal.
Form I-90 → The official application used to renew or replace a green card.
Receipt Notice → A USCIS document confirming renewal application receipt, automatically extending green card validity.
Request for Evidence (RFE) → A USCIS request for additional documents to process immigration applications, no longer issued for renewals.
This Article in a Nutshell
Starting June 15, 2025, USCIS extended green card renewal receipts to 36-month validity. This protects lawful residents but timely renewal remains vital to avoid employment and travel problems.
— By VisaVerge.com
