If your 10-year green card has expired or is about to expire within the next 6 months, it’s time to renew it. Here’s a step-by-step guide to renewing your green card.
Steps to Renew Your Green Card
- Complete the Renewal Application: You can do this online or by mail.
- Gather Your Documents: Collect the necessary supporting documents.
- Pay the Fees: There are government fees, which you’ll need to pay if required.
- Submit Your Application: Once everything is in order, submit your application and wait for your new green card.
What Happens If Your Green Card Expires?
An expired green card doesn’t mean you lose your permanent resident status. You retain that status for life unless you break the law or stay outside the U.S. for too long. However, an expired green card means you need to renew it to prove you can live and work in the U.S. legally and re-enter the country after traveling abroad.
Green Card Renewal Processing Time
After U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) receives your application, it can take anywhere from 1.5 to 12 months for your green card renewal to be processed. You can check the USCIS website for the most current processing times.
What If You Need Your New Green Card Sooner?
If you need proof of your status quickly, USCIS can issue an “Alien Documentation, Identification & Telecommunications” (ADIT) stamp, which serves as proof that you’re a lawful permanent resident. This is helpful if you’re applying for a new job or if you applied for naturalization before your green card expires.
For an ADIT stamp, contact the USCIS Contact Center or your nearest USCIS field office.
How Much Does It Cost to Renew a Green Card?
The fee to renew your green card is $540. This includes a $455 filing fee and an $85 biometrics fee for fingerprinting, photos, and signatures. You may be eligible for a fee waiver if you meet certain criteria.
How to Pay the Green Card Renewal Fee
- Online: After completing Form I-90 online, you’ll be directed to pay via Pay.gov using a credit card.
- By Mail: You can pay by money order, personal check, or cashier’s check made out to “U.S. Department of Homeland Security” (no abbreviations), or use a credit card with Form G-1450.
When Should You Renew Your Green Card?
It’s recommended to renew your green card immediately if it’s already expired or will expire in the next 6 months. Don’t apply too early, though, as USCIS may deny the application if done too far in advance.
If You’re Outside the U.S.:
- If your green card is expiring soon, file for renewal when you return to the U.S.
- If your green card has already expired and you didn’t apply before leaving, contact a U.S. consulate, USCIS field office, or U.S. port of entry for assistance.
Keep Track of Your Green Card’s Expiry Date
Be aware of your green card’s expiration date to avoid problems, especially if you plan to travel. An expired green card could prevent you from re-entering the U.S. or affect other important matters, like getting a new job.
If you’re unsure about U.S. citizenship eligibility, you can check with RapidVisa to get guidance on applying for citizenship.
How to Renew Your Green Card
To renew your green card, you’ll need to complete Form I-90 (Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card). This form is used for both renewals and replacements.
Here’s what you’ll need to do:
Online Application Process:
- Create a USCIS online account.
- Complete Form I-90.
- Upload required documents (such as a copy of your expired or soon-to-expire green card).
- Review and sign your application.
- Pay the fees.
- Submit your application.
Mail-In Application Process:
- Complete a paper Form I-90.
- Include a photocopy of the required documents (e.g., your expired or soon-to-expire green card).
- Review and sign your application.
- Include payment for fees.
- Mail your application to USCIS.
Special Situations:
- If you need a fee waiver, you must apply by mail.
- If you’re outside the U.S. when your green card expires, contact the nearest U.S. consulate or USCIS office.
- If you have a 2-year conditional green card, you’ll need to follow a different process.
Documents Needed for Renewal
In most cases, you’ll just need to provide a copy of your expired or soon-to-expire green card to prove you qualify for renewal.
What Happens After You Apply?
- Acceptance Notification:
USCIS will send you a letter confirming they’ve received your application. This letter will include a receipt number, which you can use to track your application status. - Biometrics Appointment:
Within 1-2 weeks, you should receive a notice for your biometrics appointment (to take your fingerprints, photo, and signature). You might also need to provide additional documents.
How to Track Your Green Card Renewal Status
To track your renewal, use your receipt number on the USCIS “Check Status” page. If you want updates by text or email, submit Form G-1145 with your application.
What If Your Green Card Renewal Is Denied?
Though it’s rare, a green card renewal application can be denied. Common reasons include criminal activity, unpaid taxes, or submitting incorrect information.
If your application is denied, you’ll get a letter explaining the reason. You can take action by submitting a motion to reconsider or seeking legal help. The American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA) can connect you with a licensed immigration attorney for assistance.
FAQs
Does Green Card Renewal Require an Interview?
Usually, no interview is needed for a green card renewal. However, USCIS might request one in certain cases. If you’re a conditional permanent resident, you may need an interview as part of your application process.
How Often Should I Renew My Green Card?
You should renew your 10-year green card before it expires or within 6 months of its expiration date. If you’re a conditional permanent resident, renew your card within 90 days before it expires.
Will a Misdemeanor Affect My Green Card Renewal?
Having a misdemeanor may not automatically disqualify you from renewing your green card. However, serious crimes like moral turpitude or drug trafficking could lead to a denial.
How Can I Waive the Green Card Renewal Fee?
To request a fee waiver, you’ll need to fill out Form I-912 and show proof of financial hardship, such as receiving public benefits or having a household income below the federal poverty level.
Steps to Replace Your Green Card
To replace your Green Card, officially known as the Permanent Resident Card, you must complete Form I-90, the “Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card.” This form is necessary in various situations including when your card is lost, stolen, damaged, or if there are errors in the information on the card.
Situations Requiring Replacement
You may need to replace your Green Card for several reasons:
- Lost or Stolen: If your card is lost or stolen, it is crucial to report this to the authorities and file for a replacement.
- Damaged: If your card is physically damaged and unreadable.
- Incorrect Information: If there are errors in your personal information such as name changes or incorrect data.
- Expired Card: If your Green Card has expired or will expire within six months.
Handling Errors on Your Green Card
If you discover that your Green Card has incorrect information, you should file Form I-90 to correct these errors. It’s important to provide documentation that supports the correction, such as a marriage certificate for name changes.
Green Card Renewal or Replacement Fees
The current filing fee for Form I-90 is $465. This fee applies whether you are renewing or replacing your Green Card. Additionally, there may be a biometrics appointment fee of around $85, depending on your situation.
Payment Methods
USCIS accepts various payment methods for filing fees:
- Credit or debit cards (for online applications)
- Checks or money orders (for paper applications)
- USCIS also allows fee waivers under specific circumstances through Form I-912.
Documents Required for Green Card Renewal and Replacement
When applying for a replacement or renewal of your Green Card, you will need several documents:
- A copy of your expired or lost Green Card (if available).
- A government-issued photo ID (such as a passport or driver’s license).
- Recent passport-style photographs.
- Additional documents depending on the reason for replacement (e.g., police report for stolen cards).
Submission of Documents: You can submit copies of these documents with your application. Originals are typically not required unless specifically requested by USCIS.
What to Do if Your Green Card is Lost or Stolen
If your Green Card is lost or stolen, follow these steps:
- Report the Loss: File a police report to document the theft.
- File Form I-90: Complete and submit Form I-90 along with a copy of the police report.
- Keep Records: Retain copies of all submitted documents for your records.
If you’re outside the U.S. when your card is lost or stolen, you will need to contact a U.S. consulate or embassy for guidance on re-entering the country and then file Form I-90 upon your return.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Renewing or Replacing Your Green Card
Avoid these common errors during the application process:
- Incorrect Information: Ensure all details on Form I-90 are accurate.
- Missing Documents: Double-check that you have included all necessary supporting documents.
- Late Filing: Start the renewal process at least six months before expiration to avoid legal issues.
Tips to Avoid Delays
To prevent delays in processing:
- Use USCIS’s online filing system if possible, as it allows for easier tracking and communication.
- Double-check all forms and documents before submission.
How Long Does It Take to Renew or Replace a Green Card?
Processing times for Form I-90 can vary significantly:
- For renewals, about 27.5 months for 80% of applications.
- For replacements due to loss or theft, around 23 months for 80% of cases.
If your application takes longer than expected, you can check its status through the USCIS website using your receipt number. In light of extended processing times, USCIS now issues an automatic extension of validity up to 36 months beyond the expiration date of your Green Card when you file Form I-90. This extension notice can serve as proof of permanent resident status while you await processing.
How to Appeal or File a Motion to Reopen or Reconsider Your Case
If your immigration case has been denied, you have the right to appeal the decision or file a motion to reopen or reconsider.
Steps for Filing an Appeal
- Determine Eligibility: Check if your case is eligible for appeal. Generally, you can appeal decisions made by USCIS to the Administrative Appeals Office (AAO) within 30 days of receiving the decision.
- File Form I-290B: Complete and submit Form I-290B, Notice of Appeal or Motion, along with the required fee.
- Prepare Supporting Documents: Include any relevant evidence or documentation that supports your case.
- Submit Your Appeal: Send your appeal to the address specified in your denial notice.
Filing a Motion
You can file a motion to reopen (to present new evidence) or a motion to reconsider (to argue that the decision was incorrect based on existing evidence). This must also be done within 30 days of the decision.
Green Card Renewal While Outside the U.S.
If you find yourself outside the U.S. when your Green Card expires, here’s what you need to do:
Steps to Take
- Understand Renewal Limitations: You cannot renew your Green Card while outside the U.S.; renewal must occur within U.S. borders.
- Return Before Expiration: If your Green Card expires while you are abroad, you should return to the U.S. before it expires to maintain your status.
- File Form I-90 Upon Return: Once back in the U.S., file Form I-90, Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card, as soon as possible.
Special Considerations
If you have been outside the U.S. for more than one year, you may have abandoned your permanent resident status and will likely need to reapply for a Green Card.
How to Renew a Conditional Green Card
Conditional Green Cards are issued for two years typically due to marriage or investment status. To renew this type of card:
Required Forms
- Form I-751: Petition to Remove Conditions on Residence (for marriage-based conditional residents).
- Form I-829: Petition by Investor to Remove Conditions on Permanent Resident Status (for investors).
Documentation Needed
You must provide evidence that supports your eligibility for renewal, such as:
- Proof of a bona fide marriage (if applicable).
- Joint financial documents.
- Any other relevant documentation that demonstrates ongoing eligibility.
Tips for Ensuring Your Green Card Renewal/Replacement Goes Smoothly
To ensure a successful application process:
- Complete Applications: Carefully fill out all forms and provide accurate information.
- Track Deadlines: Be mindful of filing deadlines and submit applications well in advance of expiration dates.
- Double Check Required Documents: Ensure all necessary supporting documents are included.
Green Card Renewal vs. U.S. Citizenship
Understanding the difference between renewing a Green Card and applying for U.S. citizenship is crucial:
| Aspect | Green Card Renewal | U.S. Citizenship Application |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | To maintain permanent residency status | To become a U.S. citizen |
| Forms Required | Form I-90 | Form N-400 |
| Eligibility Criteria | Must be a lawful permanent resident | Must meet residency and other requirements |
| Processing Time | Generally faster | Longer processing time |
Renewing your Green Card is often a step before applying for citizenship, as it ensures that you maintain valid residency during the naturalization process.
What Happens if You Don’t Renew or Replace Your Green Card?
Failing to renew or replace an expired Green Card can lead to several consequences:
- Loss of Employment Authorization: You may lose your ability to work legally in the U.S.
- Travel Restrictions: Traveling outside the U.S. becomes problematic without a valid Green Card.
- Risk of Status Abandonment: Prolonged absence from the U.S. can lead to abandonment of permanent resident status.
If you are unable to renew on time due to extenuating circumstances, consider consulting with an immigration attorney for guidance on options available based on your specific situation.
Green Card Renewal and Replacement for Families
Renewing or replacing Green Cards for family members follows similar procedures but may include additional considerations:
- Spouses and Children: Each family member must file their Form I-90 if their cards need renewal or replacement.
- Minors and Dependents: Special provisions may apply for minors; parental consent may be needed for filing.
Green Card Renewal for Older Adults
Older adults renewing their Green Cards may face unique challenges:
- Medical Issues: Health conditions may complicate travel and attendance at biometrics appointments.
- Assistance with Applications: It may be beneficial for elderly applicants to seek help from family members or legal representatives in completing forms accurately and submitting required documentation.
How Law and Visas Can Help?
At Law and Visas, our team of expert immigration consultants is here to make your travel to the United States straightforward and successful. Whether you’re applying for a Re-entry Permit or an EB1 Visa, we handle every step—from preparing your application to gathering the required documents.
Our Immigration Consultants and Lawyers ensure that your application meets the highest standards, with no details missed. We’ll also keep you informed throughout the process and coordinate with the immigration office or embassy on your behalf.
Law and Visas has a strong record of helping clients secure the visas/permits they need to visit the United States. You can call us today at +234 812 5505 986 to learn how we can help you.
