Introduction

Navigating the labyrinth of U.S. immigration forms can be daunting, but the USCIS I-90 form is one of the more straightforward ones—if you know what you're doing. The I-90 is the application to replace your Permanent Resident Card, commonly known as a Green Card. Whether you're renewing an expiring card, correcting a mistake, or replacing a lost or damaged card, this guide will walk you through every step of the process.

What is USCIS Form I-90?

USCIS Form I-90 is the Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card. If you are a Legal Permanent Resident (LPR) and your Green Card is nearing expiration, or if you've lost or damaged it, this is the form you need to complete.

When Do You Need to File Form I-90?

Filing the I-90 form is necessary under several circumstances. These include:

• Expiration of Your Green Card
  The most common reason for filing the I-90 is the expiration of your Green Card. U.S. law requires LPRs to carry a valid card at all times.

• Lost or Stolen Green Card
  If your Green Card is lost or stolen, you need to file the I-90 as soon as possible to replace it.

• Name Change or Other Personal Information
  If you have legally changed your name or if there are errors in your personal information, you'll need to file the I-90 to update your Green Card.

• Green Card Damage
  Any significant damage to your card, such as smudged fingerprints or illegible text, also necessitates the filing of Form I-90.

How to Complete Form I-90

Filling out Form I-90 is relatively straightforward, but it requires careful attention to detail. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown:

• Step 1: Gather Necessary Documents
  Before you start, make sure you have all necessary documents, including your current Green Card, identity proof, and any supporting evidence like legal name change documents.

• Step 2: Fill Out the Form
  You can fill out Form I-90 online or download the paper version from the USCIS website. Ensure that all sections are completed accurately.

• Step 3: Pay the Filing Fee
  The current filing fee for Form I-90 is $455, with an additional $85 for biometric services, bringing the total to $540. Fee waivers are available under specific circumstances.

• Step 4: Submit the Form
  Once the form is completed and the fee is paid, you can submit it online or mail it to the appropriate USCIS address.

What Happens After Filing Form I-90?

After you submit Form I-90, USCIS will send you a receipt notice, which confirms they have received your application. Here’s what to expect next:

• Receipt of Biometrics Appointment
  Within a few weeks, USCIS will schedule a biometrics appointment where they will collect your fingerprints, photograph, and signature.

• Processing Time
  Processing times for Form I-90 can vary but generally take 8-10 months. During this period, you can check the status of your application online.

• Receiving Your New Green Card
  Once approved, your new Green Card will be mailed to you. Be sure to keep your mailing address up-to-date with USCIS to avoid any delays.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Filing Form I-90 might seem simple, but there are common pitfalls that can delay your application:

• Providing Incorrect Information
  Double-check all information before submission to avoid delays.

• Forgetting to Sign the Form
  A surprisingly common mistake is forgetting to sign the form. Unsigned forms are automatically rejected.

• Missing the Biometrics Appointment
  If you miss your biometrics appointment, it can significantly delay your application. Reschedule it as soon as possible if you can't make it.

FAQs About Form I-90

Here are some frequently asked questions that might help clarify the process:

• Can I travel while my I-90 is pending?
  Yes, you can travel while your I-90 is pending, but ensure you have a valid travel document like a passport.

• What if my Green Card expires while my I-90 is pending?
  If your Green Card expires while your I-90 is pending, you can use your receipt notice and expired Green Card as proof of your LPR status.

• Can I expedite my I-90 application?
  USCIS generally does not expedite I-90 applications except in special circumstances.

Conclusion

Filing the USCIS Form I-90 is an essential step in maintaining your status as a Legal Permanent Resident. By following the guidelines in this article, you can ensure that your application is completed correctly and efficiently. Always keep track of your application status, and don't hesitate to reach out to legal experts if you encounter any issues.

Resources

For more information, you can visit the following resources:

• USCIS I-90 Form Instructions

• Fibi Law Firm Blog