A green card, also known as a permanent resident card, is essential for foreign nationals who want to live and work in the United States on a permanent basis. For various reasons, you may find yourself needing to replace your green card. Whether it’s because it’s lost, stolen, damaged, or expired, understanding the cost and process involved in replacing your green card is crucial for maintaining your lawful permanent resident status.
In this comprehensive article, we will explore the costs associated with green card replacement, the application process, and the factors that could influence how much it costs. We will also cover the timeline and important considerations you should be aware of when replacing your green card.
What is a Green Card?
Before delving into the replacement process, it’s important to understand what a green card is and why it holds such significance. A green card is a permanent resident card issued by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). It serves as proof that an individual is legally authorized to live and work in the U.S. on a permanent basis.
Green card holders are eligible for numerous benefits, including the ability to live and work anywhere in the U.S., sponsor family members for immigration, and apply for U.S. citizenship after meeting the required criteria. A green card is typically valid for 10 years and must be renewed after this period.
However, there are instances when a green card may become lost, damaged, or stolen, or if an individual’s personal information changes, making it necessary to replace the card. In such cases, understanding the cost of replacement is vital to ensure that you can keep your status intact.
Reasons for Green Card Replacement
There are several reasons why a person may need to replace their green card. These reasons include:
Lost Green Card
One of the most common reasons individuals need to replace their green card is because it is lost. Whether you’ve misplaced it or it has been accidentally thrown away, a lost green card can cause significant inconvenience. If you’re unable to find the card, you’ll need to replace it to maintain legal status.
Stolen Green Card
If your green card is stolen, it’s crucial to report the theft to the authorities and replace the card as soon as possible. A stolen green card can be used for identity theft, so it’s important to notify USCIS and request a replacement to avoid any potential misuse of your personal information.
Damaged Green Card
Over time, your green card may become damaged due to wear and tear, exposure to harsh conditions, or accidental mishandling. If the card is illegible or has physical damage, it’s necessary to replace it to ensure that it’s still valid and usable for identification purposes.
Expired Green Card
Although a green card is typically valid for 10 years, it’s important to remember that it does not automatically renew. If your green card has expired, you must apply for a replacement. An expired green card is no longer valid for use as identification, and you risk losing your permanent resident status if you fail to replace it in a timely manner.
Name or Personal Information Changes
If you’ve legally changed your name or had a change in your personal information, such as a change in gender or marital status, you may need to replace your green card to reflect the updated information. USCIS requires that your green card accurately reflects your current information.
U.S. Citizenship
If you’ve recently obtained U.S. citizenship, your green card will no longer be necessary. However, if you wish to travel or engage in certain activities that require proof of permanent residency, you may need to replace your green card or apply for a different form of identification.
Cost of Green Card Replacement
The cost of replacing a green card primarily involves the filing fees associated with the Form I-90, which is the application for the replacement of a permanent resident card. As of the most recent update, the cost of filing Form I-90 is:
Filing Fee for Form I-90: $540
The current filing fee for Form I-90 is $540, which includes the cost of the application and the biometric services fee. This fee is non-refundable, even if your application is denied. The $540 fee is broken down as follows:
$455: Filing fee for Form I-90
$85: Biometrics services fee (if required)
The biometrics fee applies to applicants who are between the ages of 14 and 79 and are required to submit fingerprints, photographs, and a signature as part of the application process. If you are applying for a green card replacement for reasons such as a name change, you may still be required to submit biometric information.
Additional Costs
While the primary cost for green card replacement is the Form I-90 filing fee, there may be additional costs associated with the replacement process:
Mailing Costs: If you’re submitting your Form I-90 application by mail, you’ll need to account for the cost of mailing. This cost is typically minimal, but you may want to use a mailing service with tracking to ensure that your application reaches USCIS safely.
Legal Fees: In some cases, applicants may choose to hire an immigration attorney to help with the green card replacement process. While legal representation is not required, some individuals prefer to work with an attorney to ensure that the application is correctly completed and submitted. Legal fees can vary widely depending on the complexity of the case and the attorney’s hourly rate.
Expedited Processing: If you need to replace your green card urgently, USCIS does not offer expedited processing for Form I-90 under normal circumstances. However, you may be able to request expedited processing if you can demonstrate a compelling need, such as a medical emergency or urgent travel requirements. There are no guarantees that your request will be granted, and expedited processing may involve additional costs.
The Process of Replacing Your Green Card
Replacing your green card is a relatively straightforward process, but it’s essential to follow the correct steps to avoid unnecessary delays or complications. Here’s an overview of the steps involved in the green card replacement process:
Step 1: Complete Form I-90
To replace your green card, you must complete Form I-90, Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card. This form can be completed online through the USCIS website or by filing a paper form.
The application will require you to provide the following information:
Your personal information, including your name, address, and alien registration number (A-number).
The reason for replacing your green card (e.g., lost, stolen, expired).
Supporting documentation, if necessary (e.g., a police report for a stolen card or legal documentation for a name change).
Step 2: Pay the Filing Fee
Once your Form I-90 is completed, you’ll need to pay the filing fee. If you’re filing online, you can pay the fee through the USCIS online portal using a credit card, debit card, or electronic check. If you’re filing a paper application, you can pay by check or money order.
Step 3: Submit Biometric Information (If Applicable)
If you are required to submit biometric information as part of your green card replacement application, you’ll receive a notice from USCIS with instructions on where and when to attend a biometrics appointment. During this appointment, your fingerprints, photograph, and signature will be taken.
Step 4: Wait for USCIS Processing
After you’ve submitted your Form I-90 and biometric information, you’ll need to wait for USCIS to process your application. Processing times can vary, but typically it takes about 8 to 12 months for USCIS to approve your green card replacement application.
You can check the status of your application online through the USCIS website using your receipt number.
Step 5: Receive Your Replacement Green Card
Once your application is approved, you’ll receive your replacement green card in the mail. The card will typically be valid for 10 years, just like your original green card.
Timeline for Green Card Replacement
The entire process of replacing your green card typically takes 8 to 12 months, though processing times can vary. Factors such as USCIS workload, the complexity of your case, and the accuracy of your application can all influence how long it takes to receive your replacement card.
It’s important to note that while waiting for your new green card, you are still considered a lawful permanent resident and can continue to live and work in the U.S. If you need to travel outside of the U.S. during the replacement process, it’s advisable to carry your receipt notice, as it serves as temporary proof of your permanent resident status.
Conclusion
Replacing your green card is a straightforward process, but it’s essential to understand the costs, procedures, and timeline involved. The filing fee for replacing a green card is $540, which includes both the application fee and the biometrics fee. Additional costs may apply, such as mailing fees or legal fees if you choose to work with an attorney. The replacement process typically takes 8 to 12 months, though this can vary based on factors like your individual case and USCIS processing times.
If you find yourself in need of a green card replacement, it’s important to submit your application in a timely manner and ensure that all information is accurate and complete. This will help avoid delays and ensure that you maintain your lawful permanent resident status.
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