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What To Do When Your Green Card Expires: A Complete Guide
So, your green card has expired, or it's about to. What now? Whether you’re new to the process or a seasoned permanent resident, knowing how to handle the renewal of your green card is crucial to maintaining your residency and avoiding legal issues. In this blog, we’ll walk you through the steps to take when your green card expires and how to get it renewed without unnecessary stress.
Why Does a Green Card Expire?
A green card, or Permanent Resident Card (Form I-551), is proof that you are legally allowed to live and work in the United States. While permanent residency is, well, permanent, the physical card itself has an expiration date. Typically, a green card is valid for 10 years, after which it must be renewed. If you hold a conditional green card (issued for two years), you will need to apply to remove conditions before it expires.
What Happens If Your Green Card Expires?
An expired green card does not mean you lose your status as a lawful permanent resident. However, letting your green card expire can lead to complications, such as:
Difficulty finding or keeping a job: Employers need proof of your legal residency, and an expired card might cause issues with your employment.
Problems with reentry into the U.S.: Traveling internationally becomes risky if your green card has expired, as it can cause delays or even denial of reentry into the country.
Access to services: Many services, like renewing a driver’s license or applying for loans, require a valid green card as proof of residency.
When Should You Renew Your Green Card?
The ideal time to renew your green card is six months before its expiration date. USCIS recommends filing for renewal well in advance to avoid the risk of being without a valid card. Keep in mind that processing times can vary, and it may take several months to receive your new green card.
Steps to Renew Your Green Card
Step 1: Check Your Eligibility
If you’re a lawful permanent resident (not a conditional resident), you’re eligible to renew your green card using Form I-90. Make sure your green card is either expired or will expire within six months before filing.
Step 2: File Form I-90
To renew your green card, you’ll need to file Form I-90, the Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card. This can be done online through the USCIS website or by mail. The form requires information such as your personal details, previous green card information, and reasons for renewing your card.
Step 3: Pay the Filing Fee
As of now, the filing fee for Form I-90 is $455, with an additional $85 biometric services fee (for fingerprinting and other necessary background checks). Be sure to check the USCIS website for any updates to fees.
What Documents Do You Need for Green Card Renewal?
When renewing your green card, it’s important to gather the following documents:
A copy of your current green card (even if it’s expired)
Passport-style photos (in some cases)
Any relevant supporting documents if required by USCIS (for example, if you changed your name, you'll need to provide a legal document showing this change)
Biometrics Appointment: What to Expect
Once your application is filed, USCIS may schedule a biometrics appointment for you. This is standard procedure and involves providing your fingerprints, photograph, and signature to update your background information. Biometrics are used for identity verification and security screening.
How Long Does Green Card Renewal Take?
The renewal process can take several months, usually between 6-12 months, depending on USCIS processing times. To avoid complications, renew your green card as soon as possible once you're within the six-month window before expiration. USCIS will issue a receipt after filing your Form I-90, which can serve as temporary proof of your legal status while you wait for your new card.
Can You Travel with an Expired Green Card?
Traveling with an expired green card can be tricky. Technically, if your green card has expired while you're outside the U.S., you may still be able to reenter if you have proof that you have filed for renewal (such as the receipt notice from USCIS). However, it’s not recommended. Border officials may refuse reentry if they cannot verify your status quickly. Therefore, it's always better to renew your card well in advance if you plan to travel.
What Happens If Your Green Card Expires While Abroad?
If your green card expires while you’re outside the U.S., and you haven’t filed for renewal, you might have to apply for a boarding foil (a temporary travel document) at the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate. This document allows you to return to the U.S. to complete your renewal process. However, the process can be time-consuming, and it’s much safer to avoid letting your green card expire while abroad.
Do You Need a Lawyer to Renew Your Green Card?
Most green card renewals are straightforward, and you can typically handle the process on your own. However, if you have complications, such as past criminal charges or immigration issues, it might be a good idea to consult with an immigration lawyer to ensure everything goes smoothly.
What If Your Renewal is Denied?
In rare cases, a green card renewal can be denied. This usually happens if USCIS finds that you are no longer eligible for permanent residency or if there are discrepancies in your application. If your renewal is denied, you have the right to appeal or file a motion to reopen the case. It’s advisable to seek legal counsel if this happens.
Can You Apply for U.S. Citizenship Instead?
If your green card is expiring, and you’ve been a lawful permanent resident for at least five years (or three years if married to a U.S. citizen), you might consider applying for U.S. citizenship instead of renewing your green card. Becoming a U.S. citizen has several benefits, including the right to vote and protection from deportation.
Keeping Your Information Updated
If you’ve changed your address or name since receiving your last green card, be sure to update USCIS as part of the renewal process. You can update your information using Form AR-11, which can be filed online. Keeping your information up to date is crucial for receiving important notifications and documents from USCIS.
Conclusion: Don't Let Your Green Card Expire Without Action
Letting your green card expire can lead to avoidable headaches, from trouble with employment to difficulties traveling. The good news is that renewing your green card is a straightforward process if done in a timely manner. Always keep track of your green card’s expiration date and take action at least six months beforehand to ensure there are no gaps in your residency status.
Need help with your green card renewal? Don’t hesitate to reach out to an immigration lawyer for advice. Ensuring your paperwork is in order can help you avoid unnecessary stress and complications down the line.
Resources
Form I-90 Filing Instructions