How to Renew or Replace Your Green Card

As a permanent resident in the United States, a green card is perhaps the most important document you possess. It proves your identity and status, including your right to work in the country. If you are a permanent resident, your green card is valid for 10 years. Meanwhile, a conditional permanent resident’s card expires after two years.

If the expiration date is approaching or you need a replacement, it’s vital that you take the necessary steps to move forward with your life in the United States. Remember, you are legally obligated to carry a valid green card at all times. You are also required to present proof of your right to work before starting a new job.

What You Need to Know About Renewing or Replacing a Green Card

Get a Green Card Renewal or Replacement: Here’s How

Maybe your Green Card is nearing its expiration date, or perhaps you’ve lost it or it’s been damaged beyond repair. In these circumstances and any others that result in the expiration, loss, theft, or destruction of your Green Card, you’ll need to get a renewal or replacement.

Here’s how to renew or replace your Green Card:

  • First, you’ll need to determine if you need to renew: Typically, you’ll need to do this within 6 months of the expiration date for 10-year Green Cards. Two-year conditional cards require a different process. 
  • Next, you’ll need to file Form I-90, which is the Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card. If you qualify, this can be filed online, or you can file it by mail. Just be sure to fill out all of the sections carefully, completely, and accurately.
  • Can be filed online (recommended) or by mail
  • Now it’s time to gather required documents. This will be a copy of your current Green Card (front and back) and any additional documents USCIS requests based on your specific situation. 
  • Next you’ll pay the Green Card renewal or replacement fees. This includes the filing fee and biometrics fee. You can check the latest fees on the USCIS website. Also, a fee waiver may be available if you qualify. 
  • Finally, it’s time to submit your application. You can do this online through the USCIS website or by mail to the appropriate service center. Be sure to keep copies of everything you submit for your records.
  • Now it’s time for the biometrics appointment, which USCIS will schedule after they’ve received your application. During this appointment, they’ll take your fingerprints, photo, and signature.
  • Now, there is nothing left to do but wait for processing. (Unless you are asked for further evidence.) While you wait, you’ll be able to check your case’s status online using your receipt number. 
  • Once processing is complete, you’ll get your new Green Card. If you’re approved, USCIS will mail your new Green Card to the address you provided on Form I-90. 

Submitting Form I-90

After your eligibility has been confirmed, the online software will lead you through completing your paperwork by asking a series of straightforward questions. The program checks your answers, so you won’t forget anything or submit incorrect information.

When you have completed the form I-90, these next steps will help you organize your packet:

  • Sign the form at part five
  • Include supporting documents, including a photocopy of your green card, or a photocopy of a government-issued ID if your green card was lost or stolen
  • Pay all applicable fees by check or money order to the U.S. Department of Homeland Security

The wait times for a response from USCIS vary depending on the number of applications being submitted. If at any point, you would like to know the status of your application, you can check it directly on the USCIS website.

How Much Does it Cost to Get a Replacement or Renewal Green Card?

These are the fees for replacing or renewing a Green Card in 2024:

  • Standard filing fee: $465
  • Biometrics fee: $0
  • Total cost: $465

However, it’s important to keep in mind these points about Green Card renewal and replacement:

  • These fees can change, so always check the official USCIS website for the most current information.
  • Some applicants may be eligible for a fee waiver if they can demonstrate inability to pay.
  • Certain situations (like USCIS errors on the original card) may qualify for fee exemptions.
  • If you’re filing from outside the U.S., there may be additional costs associated with Form I-131A.

Remember, fees are generally non-refundable, even if your application is denied. If you’re unsure about your eligibility for fee waivers or exemptions, it may be helpful to consult with an immigration attorney or accredited representative.

How Long Does it Take to Get a Replacement or Renewal Green Card?

Typically, it takes about 3 to 13 months to process Form I-90 and receive a new Green Card. This timeframe can fluctuate based on USCIS workload, the specific service center handling your application, and whether additional evidence is required. Online filing is generally faster than paper filing.

A receipt notice will usually be sent within 2-3 weeks of filing. USCIS will also schedule your biometrics appointment approximately 1-3 months after filing. If your case is approved, it usually takes a few weeks for your Green Card to be produced and delivered.

How to Get a Replacement Green Card if You Are Outside the United States

That was the process to get a replacement or renewal Green Card if you are in the United States. However, you may not be in the U.S. at the time your Green Card expires or is lost or damaged. That’s not a problem – there is a process for emergency travel back to the U.S. so you can replace your green card upon your return. Here’s how:

  • Contact the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate and explain your situation. Ask for their help, and they’ll guide you through the specific procedures for your location. 
  • You’ll also need to file Form I-131A, Application for Travel Document (Carrier Documentation), which is used to request a travel document to return to the U.S. when your Green Card has been lost, stolen, or destroyed.
  • When you pay the filing fee, you’ll need to check the current fees from the USCIS website and check the payment methods, because they may very based on your location. 
  • Like the process from within the U.S., you’ll need to provide the required documentation, such as proof of your identity, evidence of your permanent resident status, and a recent passport-style photo. You’ll also need a police report if your card was stolen.
  • After you’ve submitted your application, fees, and documentation, it’s time to attend an in-person interview, where a consular officer will review your application and ask you questions. 
  • Finally, you’ll receive your travel document, which will be valid for 30 days (if you are approved). Once you have this, you’ll be able to board a plane or other carrier to make the trip back to the U.S.
  • Once you return to the U.S., you’ll need to file Form I-90 to get your replacement Green Card. Be sure to do this as soon as possible upon re-entering the country.

If Your Green Card Is Stolen While You’re Abroad

No one expects their Green Card to be stolen while they’re abroad, but it happens. If it happens to you, you’ll need to act quickly to get a replacement. The first step is to report the theft to the local police, being sure to get a copy of the police report. Then, you’ll need to contact the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate to ask for help. 

The embassy or consulate will guide you through the process of filing Form I-131A, Application for Travel Document (Carrier Documentation). You’ll need to show proof of identity, pay a fee, show proof of your permanent resident status, and provide a coy of the police report, if one is available. 

You will also need a “boarding foil,” which is an important document you’ll need to return to the U.S. without your green card. This serves as a temporary replacement for your Green Card. It allows you to board a plane or other carrier to return to the United States. It’s usually valid for 30 days from the date it is issued, and it allows a single entry into the U.S. 

Important: Begin the process of renewing your Green Card well before your current card expires. This will ensure that you have continuous proof of your immigration status.

When to Renew or Replace a Permanent Resident Card

According to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, you can renew your green card when the expiration date is within the next six months. All currently valid green cards have the expiration date clearly printed on the front of the card.

The USCIS states that you MUST replace your green card if:

  • You were issued a card valid for 10 years that has either expired or will expire within six months.
  • You have a Permanent Resident Card that does not have an expiration date on it.
  • Your card has been lost, stolen, or damaged.
  • You were issued a card valid for 10 years before you turned 14 years old, and it will not expire before your 16th birthday.
  • Your card was printed with incorrect data (name, DOB, issued date) due to USCIS administrative error.

You also may replace your green card if:

  • Your name or other biographic information has been legally changed.
  • You have taken up commuter status. This means you travel regularly to work in the United States but reside in Canada or Mexico.

If you are in any of these situations, apply for a new green card with USCIS Form I-90. FileRight will set you on the right track, starting with a free questionnaire to check your eligibility.

What if I Can’t Afford the I-90 Green Card Renewal Application Fee?

You can request a fee waiver for the I-90 application if you can provide documentation showing that you qualify based upon one of the following criteria:

  • You, your spouse, or the head of household living with you, are currently receiving a means-tested benefit.
  • Your household income is at or below 150% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines at the time you file. Check the current Federal Poverty Guidelines for this year at Form I-912P, HHS Poverty Guidelines for Fee Waiver Requests.
  • You are currently experiencing financial hardship that prevents you from paying the filing fee, including unexpected medical bills or emergencies.

To request a fee waiver, file Form I-912 with your I-90 green card renewal application.

Will I Lose My Permanent Resident Status if I Do Not Renew My Green Card?

No, you will not lose your permanent resident status if you do not renew your green card. Permanent resident status is permanent. It does not expire or change. However, you are required by law to carry evidence of your status/registration (e.g. a valid, unexpired green card or temporary proof of status that you receive at the time of filing to renew your green card).

What to Do if You Are a Conditional Permanent Resident

Conditional permanent residents received their green cards through marriage or entrepreneurship. If this is your situation, you may not renew when two years are up. Instead, you have 90 days before the card’s expiration to apply for conditions to be removed on the green card. Otherwise, you will lose your residency status.

Submit Form I-751 to become a permanent resident without condition. FileRight will provide you with up-to-date forms and clear explanations of each item in either English or Spanish. 

Should you need any additional assistance using the program, technical support is available by phone at any time. When you’re done, you’ll have completed documents ready to be filed with the government, along with customized instructions for how to do so.

If you have not yet obtained permanent residency status, FileRight can still help. The online software includes a package for a relative who is currently a resident or citizen to submit a petition on your behalf with Form I-130. When that form is approved, you can file Form I-485 to receive a green card.

How Can I Get Temporary Proof of Permanent Resident Status While I Wait for My New Green Card?

The following documents can serve as temporary evidence of lawful permanent resident status:

  • A foreign passport with a temporary Form I-551 stamp or I-551-printed notation on a machine-readable immigrant visa (MRIV).
  • An expired green card with Form I-797, Notice of Action, indicating that the card is valid for an additional year.
  • A Form I-94 with a temporary Form I-551 stamp, which is a receipt for the green card. At the end of the receipt validity period, which is the expiration date of the stamp, the employee must present their Permanent Resident Card (Form I-551).

To request interim evidence of permanent residence, contact a USCIS Field Office or make an InfoPass appointment.

What Will Happen if I Let My Green Card Expire?

Having an expired green card could cause lots of problems. While you won’t lose your permanent resident status, the law requires you to carry a valid green card at all times.

Without a valid green card, it can be difficult to get a new job. Employers are required to verify your identity and permission to work in the United States. When starting a new job, you will generally be asked to complete the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services I-9 form. With it, you’ll need to provide valid proof of your immigration status.

You also need a valid green card to re-enter the U.S. after traveling abroad. And, you need a valid green card to renew a driver’s license in most states.

Letting your green card expire will only create headaches for you. Take immediate action when your card is within six months of expiration to avoid these challenges.

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