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How to Renew Your Green Card: A Step-by-Step Guide
If you are a permanent resident of the United States, your green card is one of the most important documents you’ll ever own. It grants you the legal right to live and work in the U.S. permanently. But what happens when your green card is close to its expiration date? Don’t worry! Renewing your green card is a straightforward process, and in this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to make sure you get it done smoothly.
Why You Need to Renew Your Green Card
A green card is typically valid for 10 years, and it’s essential to keep it up-to-date. Not only does an expired green card make it difficult to prove your legal status, but you might also run into issues when traveling, applying for jobs, or renewing your driver’s license. Most importantly, maintaining a valid green card ensures that you remain in compliance with U.S. immigration laws.
When Should You Renew Your Green Card?
The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) recommends starting the renewal process about six months before your card's expiration date. The renewal process can take several months, so it’s best to give yourself plenty of time to avoid any gaps in your legal residency status.
Signs Your Green Card Needs Renewal
The card is about to expire within six months.
Your green card is already expired.
You’ve legally changed your name or any information listed on the card.
Your green card was lost, stolen, or damaged.
Step 1 – Check Your Eligibility
The first step in renewing your green card is determining if you’re eligible. Most permanent residents who hold a 10-year green card and have maintained their legal status are eligible for renewal. However, if you have been convicted of certain crimes or have other legal issues, you might face complications in the process.
Step 2 – File Form I-90, Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card
The next step is filling out Form I-90, the application to renew or replace your green card. You can file this form online through the USCIS website, or you can choose to file a paper form by mail. Filing online is often faster and more convenient, allowing you to track your application status in real time.
How to Access Form I-90
Go to the USCIS website.
Follow the instructions to file online or download the paper form.
Make sure to gather the necessary documents before starting your application.
Step 3 – Pay the Filing Fee
The current fee for renewing your green card is $540. This includes the $455 application fee and an $85 fee for biometrics, which is the process of taking your fingerprints and photograph. If you can’t afford the fee, you may be eligible for a fee waiver. Be sure to check the eligibility criteria for a waiver on the USCIS website.
Step 4 – Attend Your Biometrics Appointment
Once you submit your Form I-90 and pay the fees, USCIS will schedule a biometrics appointment for you. This step is necessary to update your fingerprints, photo, and signature in the USCIS database. You’ll receive a notice with the appointment details, so be sure to attend it on time.
Step 5 – Track Your Application Status
After your biometrics appointment, USCIS will begin processing your green card renewal. You can monitor your case status online by logging into your USCIS account or using the case number provided on your receipt notice. Processing times vary, but it usually takes several months to receive your new card.
What Happens if Your Green Card Expires During the Renewal Process?
If your green card expires while your renewal application is pending, don't panic. As long as you’ve submitted Form I-90 and received a receipt notice, you remain in legal status. The receipt notice serves as proof of your legal residency while you wait for your new card. Additionally, if you need to travel, USCIS may issue a temporary travel document while your application is being processed.
Traveling with an Expired Green Card
Traveling internationally with an expired green card can be tricky. Airlines and border control officers may not allow you to board a flight or enter the U.S. without a valid green card. However, if your green card renewal application is in process, you can apply for a temporary travel document, known as a boarding foil, at your nearest U.S. consulate or embassy.
Can You Renew a Conditional Green Card?
A conditional green card, typically issued to individuals with residency based on marriage or investment, is valid for only two years. If you have a conditional green card, you cannot simply renew it. Instead, you must file to remove the conditions on your residency by submitting Form I-751, Petition to Remove Conditions on Residence. Make sure to do this within the 90 days before your conditional card expires.
What to Do If Your Renewal Is Denied
In rare cases, USCIS may deny your green card renewal application. If this happens, you’ll receive a notice explaining the reasons for the denial. Common reasons include providing incorrect information, failing to attend your biometrics appointment, or having certain criminal convictions. If your renewal is denied, it’s important to consult with an immigration attorney to explore your options, which may include filing an appeal or reapplying.
Stay on Top of Your Green Card Renewal
Renewing your green card is a critical task that should not be delayed. By following the steps outlined above, you can ensure that your legal status remains intact and avoid any unnecessary complications. Remember, it’s always better to be proactive about your green card status than to deal with the consequences of an expired card.
Resources
How to File Form I-90
Fee Waiver Information