For many lawful permanent residents (LPRs) of the United States, the green card serves as the key to living and working in the country indefinitely. However, like all documents, a green card has an expiration date. Typically, a green card is valid for ten years, and once it expires, individuals must go through the process of renewing it. Renewing a green card is crucial for maintaining one’s status as a permanent resident, enabling individuals to continue enjoying the rights and privileges that come with that status.
The process of renewing a green card can seem straightforward, but it involves multiple steps, and the timeline for approval can vary based on several factors. In this article, we will explore everything you need to know about renewing a green card, including the typical time it takes, the steps involved, and potential delays that applicants might encounter.
Why Do You Need to Renew Your Green Card?
Before diving into the renewal process itself, it is important to understand why renewing a green card is necessary. A green card is not a permanent document—its validity is limited to ten years, after which it expires. While the expiration of your green card does not affect your status as a lawful permanent resident, it can create several practical issues, including:
Proof of Legal Residency: An expired green card can create difficulties when you need to prove your legal residency status, such as when applying for a job, renewing your driver’s license, or traveling internationally.
Reentry into the U.S.: If you plan on leaving the U.S. and reentering, an expired green card could cause issues with customs and border protection, potentially preventing you from boarding your flight or entering the country.
Maintaining Benefits: Some government benefits, such as the ability to apply for citizenship, may be more complicated if your green card is expired.
Therefore, timely renewal is essential to avoid complications and ensure continued lawful residency in the U.S.
Steps to Renew a Green Card
The process for renewing a green card is relatively simple, but it requires attention to detail and adherence to specific procedures. Below are the primary steps involved in renewing your green card.
Step 1: Determine Eligibility for Renewal
Before applying for a green card renewal, ensure that you meet the eligibility requirements. Most individuals are eligible to renew their green card unless they fall under certain disqualifying categories, such as:
You are no longer a lawful permanent resident (e.g., if your status has been revoked).
You have a conditional green card (which typically requires a different process for renewal).
You are subject to removal proceedings or have been convicted of a serious crime that could affect your immigration status.
If you are in good standing as a lawful permanent resident, you are likely eligible to renew your green card.
Step 2: Complete Form I-90, Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card
The primary form used to renew a green card is Form I-90, Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card. This form can be filed online or via paper submission, depending on your preference and circumstances. Form I-90 asks for information such as your name, address, date of birth, and the reason for your renewal request.
When filling out Form I-90, you will need to specify whether you are renewing your green card because it is expired or about to expire. You will also need to answer questions about your personal information, your status as a permanent resident, and any changes in your circumstances since you were issued your last green card.
Step 3: Submit Required Documents
Along with Form I-90, you may be required to submit certain documents to support your application. These documents may include:
A copy of your expired or soon-to-expire green card.
Proof of your identity, such as a passport, birth certificate, or state-issued ID (if necessary).
Any additional documents that support your eligibility for renewal, such as proof that you are not involved in any criminal activities that would affect your status.
It is important to review the specific instructions on the USCIS website and ensure that you include all necessary documentation to avoid delays in processing.
Step 4: Pay the Application Fee
There is a fee associated with filing Form I-90. As of the time of writing, the filing fee for a green card renewal application is $540. This fee includes both the $455 filing fee and the $85 biometric services fee. The biometric services fee covers the cost of fingerprinting and other identification processes required for the renewal application.
If you are unable to pay the fee, you may be able to request a fee waiver, but this is only available in certain circumstances, such as financial hardship. The application for a fee waiver must be submitted along with your Form I-90 application.
Step 5: Attend Biometrics Appointment (If Applicable)
After submitting your Form I-90 and paying the application fee, USCIS will schedule you for a biometrics appointment. During this appointment, you will provide fingerprints, photographs, and a signature. The biometrics are used to verify your identity and perform background checks.
Biometrics appointments are typically scheduled a few weeks after USCIS receives your application. It is important to attend this appointment as failure to do so can lead to delays or denial of your green card renewal application.
Step 6: Wait for Approval
Once USCIS has processed your application and completed any necessary background checks, you will receive a decision regarding your green card renewal. If your application is approved, USCIS will issue a new green card, and it will be mailed to your address. The process from the time of submission to approval can take several months.
Step 7: Receive Your New Green Card
If your application is approved, you will receive your new green card in the mail. This card will be valid for another ten years. It is important to note that the delivery of your new card may take several weeks or even a few months, depending on USCIS’s processing times.
Timeline for Green Card Renewal
The timeline for green card renewal can vary depending on a number of factors, such as the volume of applications being processed by USCIS and the specific details of your case. However, the general timeline for most applicants is as follows:
Application Processing Time: After USCIS receives your Form I-90 application, it can take anywhere from 6 to 12 months for your green card renewal to be processed. This timeline can vary depending on the service center handling your case and the specific workload at the time.
Biometrics Appointment: Biometrics appointments are typically scheduled 4 to 8 weeks after your application is received. The appointment itself may take only an hour or so, but the scheduling and processing can take additional time.
Approval and Card Issuance: Once your application is approved, it can take an additional 2 to 4 weeks for USCIS to mail your new green card to your address.
Overall, applicants can expect the entire green card renewal process to take approximately 6 to 12 months, but delays can occur, especially if there are complications with your application or if USCIS is experiencing a high volume of cases.
What Happens if Your Green Card Expires While Waiting for Renewal?
While it is important to renew your green card before it expires, sometimes the process can take longer than expected. If your green card expires before you receive your new one, you are still considered a lawful permanent resident of the United States. However, the expired card may create some challenges, particularly if you need to prove your status for employment, travel, or other purposes.
If you need to travel outside of the U.S. and your green card has expired, you may be able to use other documents, such as your passport and evidence that your renewal application is pending, to reenter the country. It is a good idea to keep copies of any correspondence with USCIS and your receipt notice for the I-90 application, as this can help establish your continuous lawful permanent resident status.
Expedited Green Card Renewal
In certain situations, individuals may be eligible for expedited green card renewal processing. This option is generally only available for cases where there is a proven need for urgent processing, such as:
Medical emergencies: If you need to travel urgently for medical treatment or to attend to a family member.
Military service: If you are in the U.S. military and need your green card renewed quickly.
Special circumstances: If you have a compelling reason, such as a job requirement or an urgent immigration matter.
To request expedited processing, you must submit a written request to USCIS and provide evidence of your need for expedited processing. USCIS evaluates these requests on a case-by-case basis and will only approve expedited processing under certain circumstances.
Conclusion
Renewing a green card is an essential step for maintaining lawful permanent resident status in the U.S. While the process can take several months, with proper planning and timely submission of documents, you can ensure that your renewal is processed efficiently. It is important to submit your renewal application well before your green card expires to avoid any complications.
By understanding the renewal process, typical timelines, and potential delays, you can better navigate the green card renewal process and enjoy the continued benefits of lawful permanent residency. Remember, staying informed about the latest immigration policies and processing times can help ensure a smooth renewal experience.
Related topics:
- How Much Does a Green Card Medical Exam Cost?
- How Long Does It Take for Green Card to Citizenship?
- How Can You Get Your Green Card?
