A green card, officially known as a Permanent Resident Card, allows immigrants to live and work permanently in the United States. However, this card is not valid forever. Most green cards must be renewed every 10 years. Failing to renew on time can lead to complications, including difficulties with employment, travel, or proving legal residency. That’s why understanding the green card renewal process is so important.
When Should You Renew a Green Card?
The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) recommends filing for renewal within six months before your card expires. Even though your status as a lawful permanent resident does not end when your card expires, carrying an expired card can cause problems when:
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Applying for jobs.
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Proving eligibility for benefits.
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Traveling internationally.
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Interacting with law enforcement or government agencies.
Timely renewal ensures uninterrupted proof of your legal residency.
How to Apply for Green Card Renewal
The process involves filing Form I-90, Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card. This form is available online and by mail. Applicants need to provide personal information, immigration details, and evidence of residency.
Steps include:
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Complete Form I-90 – Either online via USCIS or through a paper form.
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Pay the Filing Fee – As of now, the fee includes both the application and biometric services.
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Submit Required Documents – Proof of identity, expired or expiring green card, and any supporting records.
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Attend Biometrics Appointment – USCIS requires fingerprints, photos, and a signature for verification.
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Receive Case Updates – USCIS provides status updates through your account.
What Happens if a Green Card Is Lost, Stolen, or Damaged?
Green card renewal is not only for expired cards. You must also file for a replacement if your card is:
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Lost or stolen.
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Damaged or illegible.
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Issued with incorrect information.
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Never received after approval.
In such cases, filing Form I-90 is also the correct procedure.
Green Card Renewal Processing Time
The average processing time for renewal applications can range from 8 to 12 months. During this period, USCIS may issue a receipt notice that extends your green card’s validity, usually for 24 months, so you can continue working and traveling while waiting for your new card.
Traveling While Green Card Renewal Is Pending
Many applicants worry about traveling internationally while their renewal is in process. USCIS allows travel if you have:
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Your expired green card.
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The I-797C receipt notice extending your status.
These documents together serve as temporary proof of residency.
What If Your Green Card Has Already Expired?
If your card is already expired, you should file Form I-90 immediately. An expired card does not mean you lose your permanent resident status, but it can cause issues with employment verification and re-entry to the U.S. after travel. Quick action is necessary to avoid complications.
Renewal vs. Replacement of a Green Card
It’s important to distinguish between renewal and replacement:
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Renewal applies when your card is expiring or has expired.
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Replacement applies when your card is lost, stolen, or contains incorrect information.
Both processes use Form I-90 but may require different supporting documents.
Conditional Green Card Renewal
Some residents receive a conditional green card, typically valid for 2 years, often through marriage or investment programs. Conditional residents do not file Form I-90. Instead, they must file:
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Form I-751 to remove conditions on a marriage-based green card.
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Form I-829 to remove conditions on an investor-based green card.
Failure to file these forms on time may result in losing permanent resident status.
