Your green card serves as proof of your permanent resident status and requires periodic renewal or replacement under various circumstances. Understanding when and how to maintain this critical document ensures you can continue working, traveling, and accessing benefits without interruption.
Green card renewal and replacement involve different procedures and requirements, though both use Form I-90. The key difference lies in why you need a new card—renewal applies when your current card is expiring, while replacement addresses lost, stolen, or damaged cards.
Processing times for green card renewal and replacement have fluctuated significantly in recent years, making early application crucial for avoiding gaps in documentation. Planning ahead and understanding current procedures helps ensure seamless continuation of your permanent resident status.
When to Renew Your Green Card
Ten-year green cards must be renewed before their expiration date, which is printed on the front of your card. Most permanent residents receive ten-year cards, though some circumstances result in two-year conditional cards requiring different procedures.
Six-month rule suggests filing your renewal application within six months of your card’s expiration date. Filing too early may result in rejection, while waiting too long can leave you without valid documentation during processing.
Card expiration doesn’t affect your permanent resident status, but an expired card creates practical problems for employment verification, travel, and accessing various services that require proof of your immigration status.
Employment authorization continues even with an expired green card, but employers may have difficulty completing I-9 verification without valid documentation. Form I-797 receipt notices can serve as temporary evidence while your renewal processes.
When to Replace Your Green Card
Lost or stolen cards require immediate replacement to maintain proof of your permanent resident status. File a police report for stolen cards, as this documentation may be helpful for your replacement application.
Damaged cards that are illegible, torn, or otherwise unusable need replacement even if they haven’t expired. Damage that affects the card’s ability to serve as valid identification triggers replacement requirements.
Name changes due to marriage, divorce, or legal name changes require new green cards reflecting your current legal name. You’ll need supporting documentation such as marriage certificates, divorce decrees, or court orders.
Information errors on your current card, such as incorrect birth dates or other biographical information, require replacement with corrected cards. These errors should be addressed promptly to avoid complications with employment or travel.
Form I-90 Application Process
Form I-90 is the single application used for both green card renewal and replacement. The form requires detailed biographical information, reason for application, and supporting documentation depending on your specific circumstances.
Filing fees for I-90 applications are currently $540, consisting of a $455 filing fee and $85 biometrics fee. Fee waivers may be available for applicants who demonstrate financial hardship meeting specific criteria.
Supporting documentation varies based on your reason for filing. Renewal applications typically require fewer documents than replacement applications, which may need police reports, name change documentation, or other specific evidence.
Online filing is available for most I-90 applications through the USCIS website, offering advantages such as electronic receipt notifications, case status updates, and potentially faster processing times compared to paper applications.
Required Documentation
Copy of your current green card (front and back) should be included with all applications, even if the card is damaged or partially illegible. If your card is lost or stolen, include a copy if you have one available.
Identity documentation such as passport, driver’s license, or other government-issued identification establishes your identity for the replacement process. Multiple forms of identification strengthen your application.
Name change documentation is required when applying for replacement due to legal name changes. This includes certified copies of marriage certificates, divorce decrees, court orders, or other official documents establishing your legal name change.
Police reports should be included for stolen green cards, demonstrating that you reported the theft to appropriate authorities. This documentation helps establish the legitimate need for replacement.
Biometrics Appointment Process
Biometrics scheduling occurs automatically after USCIS accepts your I-90 application. You’ll receive an appointment notice with specific date, time, and location for your biometrics services appointment.
Required biometrics include fingerprints, photograph, and signature collection at designated Application Support Centers. These services typically take 15-30 minutes and don’t require additional fees beyond what you paid with your application.
Rescheduling appointments is possible if you cannot attend your scheduled appointment, but delays in completing biometrics can extend your overall processing time. Follow the instructions on your appointment notice for rescheduling procedures.
Preparation for appointments includes bringing your appointment notice, valid identification, and any required supporting documents. Arrive on time and dressed appropriately for photograph services.
Processing Times and Expectations
Current processing times for I-90 applications vary by USCIS service center and application volume, typically ranging from 10 to 14 months as of early 2025. Check the USCIS website for current processing time estimates for your service center.
Receipt notices serve as temporary evidence of your permanent resident status while your application processes. These notices extend the validity of expired green cards for certain purposes, including employment authorization.
Case status updates are available online using your receipt number, allowing you to track your application progress and receive notifications about important developments in your case.
Delays can occur due to background check processing, requests for additional evidence, or high application volumes. Plan accordingly by applying well before your current card expires.
Travel Considerations During Processing
International travel with an expired green card and I-797 receipt notice is generally acceptable, but some airlines and border officials may not be familiar with these temporary documents. Carry both documents and be prepared to explain the renewal process.
Re-entry permits may be advisable for extended international travel during I-90 processing, particularly if you plan trips lasting several months. These permits provide clearer documentation of your permanent resident status.
Advance planning for travel should consider your green card expiration date and anticipated processing times. Avoid scheduling important international travel during periods when your documentation might be unclear.
Documentation for travel should include your I-797 receipt notice, expired green card (if available), and any other supporting documents that demonstrate your permanent resident status.
Conditional Green Card Considerations
Two-year conditional green cards require different procedures for renewal. These cards, typically issued to marriage-based immigrants, require Form I-751 to remove conditions rather than I-90 for renewal.
Timing for conditional card removal is critical, as applications must be filed within the 90-day period before the card’s expiration date. Missing this deadline can result in removal proceedings.
Joint filing with your spouse is required for most I-751 applications, though waiver provisions exist for certain circumstances such as divorce, abuse, or extreme hardship.
Evidence requirements for conditional card removal are extensive, requiring proof that your marriage was entered in good faith and continues to be genuine, or documentation supporting waiver requests.
Common Application Mistakes
Incomplete forms are the most frequent cause of I-90 application delays or denials. Review all sections carefully and provide complete, accurate information before submitting your application.
Missing supporting documents can result in requests for additional evidence that extend processing times. Include all required documentation with your initial application when possible.
Incorrect fees or payment methods can cause application rejection. Verify current fee amounts and acceptable payment methods before submitting your application.
Address changes that occur after filing must be reported to USCIS using Form AR-11 and by contacting the service center processing your case. Failure to update your address can result in missed communications.
Emergency Situations
Urgent travel needs may qualify for expedited processing in certain circumstances, such as family emergencies or critical business travel. Contact USCIS directly to inquire about expedition possibilities for urgent situations.
Temporary documentation options may be available through local USCIS field offices for emergency situations requiring immediate proof of permanent resident status.
InfoPass appointments at local USCIS offices can sometimes provide temporary stamps in passports for urgent travel needs, though availability varies by office and circumstances.
Alternative documentation such as I-551 stamps may be available in emergency situations, providing temporary evidence of permanent resident status for specific purposes.
After Receiving Your New Green Card
Card verification should be your first step after receiving your new green card. Check all information for accuracy and contact USCIS immediately if you find any errors.
Secure storage of your new card is essential, as replacement applications are costly and time-consuming. Consider keeping copies in separate locations and using secure storage for the original.
Document updates may be necessary with employers, banks, and other institutions that maintain records of your immigration status. Provide updated information promptly to avoid complications.
Travel readiness improves with your new card, but remember that green cards alone don’t guarantee re-entry to the United States. Maintain your permanent resident status by avoiding extended absences and following all relevant requirements.
Green card renewal and replacement are routine processes that require attention to detail and advance planning. Understanding the procedures, requirements, and timelines helps ensure you maintain valid documentation of your permanent resident status without interruption. Early application and careful preparation help avoid the complications that can arise from expired or missing green cards.
