Has your Green Card been lost, stolen, or damaged? Is it about to expire? The first step you’ll need to take to replace your Permanent Resident Card is to fill out Form I-90 and file it with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
By submitting Form I-90, Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card, you’re essentially requesting USCIS to issue you a new Green Card that accurately reflects your current status and information as a permanent resident of the United States.
FileRight’s guide to understanding Form I-90 will cover the basics of what you need to know to complete Form I-90 to get a replacement Green Card.
What You Need to Know About Completing and Filing Form I-90
- What Is Form I-90?
- What Form I-90 Is Not
- Who Needs Form I-90?
- How Do You Fill Out Form I-90?
- Who Can File Form I-90 Online and Who Must File By Mail?
- What Documents Do You Need for Form I-90?
- How Much Does Form I-90 Cost?
- What Happens After Filing Form I-90?
- How Do You Check the Status of Form I-90?
- Is I-90 the Same as a Green Card?
- What Is the Average Processing Time for I-90 in 2024?
- What to Expect After You Submit Form I-90
- Can I Travel While My I-90 Is Pending?
- How Many Times Can You Submit Form I-90?
- Get Help Completing Form I-90, Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card
What Is Form I-90?
Form I-90, also known as the Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card, is an official United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) form. The purpose of completing and submitting this form is to request a replacement or renewal Green Card.
If you are a lawful permanent resident of the United States, you’ll need this form to get a new Green Card. You will also need to complete Form I-90 if you need to update the information on your Green Card, for example, if you have changed your name. You will also need to complete this form if you need to correct mistakes on your original Green Card.
What Form I-90 Is Not
So now that you know what Form I-90 is, let’s cover what it is not. Form I-90 is not used for first-time Green Card applications. You also can’t use it to remove conditions on residence. For that, you’ll need to complete Form I-751 for family-based or I-829 for investor-based.
Who Needs Form I-90?
Form I-90 is needed by lawful permanent residents (Green Card holders) in several situations. Here’s a list of who typically needs to file Form I-90:
- Expiring Green Card: If your 10-year Green Card is expiring within the next 6 months
- Lost or stolen Green Card: If your card has been lost, stolen, or destroyed
- Damaged Green Card: If your card is mutilated or damaged
- Name or other biographic information change: If you’ve legally changed your name or other key information has changed
- Never received original card: If USCIS issued a card but you never received it
- Incorrect information on card: If there’s an error on your card, whether due to USCIS error or your own
- Commuter losing residence: If you’re a commuter who is taking up actual residence in the U.S.
- Turning 14 years old: Children who received their card before age 14 and it will expire after turning 16
- Status change: If you’ve been automatically converted to permanent resident status
- Outdated card version: If you have an older version of the Green Card without an expiration date
- Returning resident: If you’re a returning resident who stayed outside the U.S. for over 1 year
Important: Conditional permanent residents typically use Form I-751 or I-829, not I-90. If your 2-year conditional Green Card is expiring, you need a different form
How Do You Fill Out Form I-90?
Form I-90 isn’t hard to fill out, but it does require attention to detail. As with all things USCIS, making even a small mistake on your Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card can result in delays or a denial of your application. So paying attention and filling it out completely, accurately, and honestly are critical.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you complete Form I-90:
First, you’ll need to download the latest version of Form I-90 from the USCIS website or access it online. In Part 2 of the form, you’ll choose your reason for filing.
Be sure to fill out each section of the application carefully. The sections will include:
Part 1: Information About You
Part 2: Application Type
Part 3: Processing Information
Part 4: Accommodations for Individuals with Disabilities and/or Impairments
Part 5: Applicant’s Statement, Contact Information, Certification, and Signature
Part 6: Interpreter’s Contact Information, Certification, and Signature (if applicable)
Part 7: Contact Information, Declaration, and Signature of the Person Preparing this Application, if Other Than the Applicant
Keep this points in mind when you’re completing Form I-90:
- Read the instructions carefully before starting
- Use the most current version of the form
- Use black ink if you’re filling it out by hand.
- Write clearly and legibly.
- Answer all of the questions honestly and completely.
- If a question doesn’t apply, write “N/A” (Not Applicable).
- Don’t forget to sign and date the form.
- Double-check all of the information for accuracy.
Tips for filing:
- Include all of the required supporting documents.
- Pay the filing fee and biometrics fee, unless you qualify for a waiver.
- If you’re filing form I-90 by mail, make a copy of your completed form and documents for your records.
- Consider filing it online if possible, as it can be easier and faster
Who Can File Form I-90 Online and Who Must File By Mail?
Most permanent residents can file Form I-90 online through the USCIS website. This option is available to you if you are renewing an expiring Green Card, replacing a lost, stolen, or damaged card, or updating information due to legal name changes or other biographic changes.
However, for certain categories of applicants, you must file Form I-90 by mail. These include people who never received their Green Card, those whose cards contain incorrect information due to a USCIS error, and permanent residents who are applying for a fee waiver.
Also, if you’re outside the United States when you’re filing this form, you’ll need to submit it by mail to the USCIS lockbox facility. It’s important to check the most current USCIS guidelines before filing, as the rules for online versus mail submission can occasionally change.
What Documents Do You Need for Form I-90?
To complete Form I-90, you’ll need to include the proper documentation. Which documents you’ll need to complete your Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card will depend on your specific situation.
All applicants will need to submit a copy of your current or expired Green Card (front and back), and a copy of your government-issued photo identification, such as your driver’s license or passport. Depending on your situation, you may also need to provide:
- For an expiring Green Card: No additional documents are usually required.
- For a lost or stolen card: You may need to include a copy of a police report or a sworn statement describing the loss or theft of your Green Card.
- For a damaged Green Card: You may need to provide the damaged card with your application.
- For a legal name change: You may need to provide a court order or marriage certificate showing the name change.
- For a commuter losing residence: You may need to provide evidence of your employment in the U.S.
- For incorrect information on your card due to a USCIS error: You may need to provide proof of the correct information, such as a birth certificate in the case of an incorrect birth date.
In addition to this documentation, you should provide any documents that support your eligibility for a Green Card. You’ll also need two recent passport-style photos if you’re filing by mail, and if you’re filing online you can upload a digital photo.
You may also need to complete Form G-1145, which is an optional form to receive electronic notifications. In addition to this, you will need to complete Form G-1450, which is a check, money order, or credit card authorization.
Remember: Always submit copies of your documents, not originals (unless specifically requested), translate any non-English documents, and follow USCIS instructions carefully for your specific situation.
How Much Does Form I-90 Cost?
So how much does it cost to file Form I-90, Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card? As of 2024, these are the fees:
- Standard filing fee: $465
- Biometrics fee: $0
- Total cost: $465
If you can’t afford these costs, fee waivers are available for those who can demonstrate an inability to pay. To request a fee waiver, use Form I-912. Also, in some cases, such as the case when certain errors are on the original card, the applicant may be exempt from these fees.
Payment methods USCIS accepts:
- Check or money order payable to “U.S. Department of Homeland Security”
- Credit card using Form G-1450 (if filing by mail)
- Online payment if filing electronically
Please be aware that USCIS may update fees periodically. You should always check the official USCIS website for the most current fee information. And also keep in mind that even if your application is denied, these fees are generally non-refundable.
What Happens After Filing Form I-90?
So you’ve submitted Form I-90 – what happens next? There are still several more steps in the process. First, within 2-3 weeks, USCIS will send you a receipt notice (Form I-797C). This will contain your case number, which you’ll need for tracking.
Next, you’ll receive a notice for your biometrics appointment, which is typically scheduled 1-3 months after filing. During this appointment, USCIS will collect your fingerprints, photo, and signature.
Finally, USCIS will process your case. This will involve reviewing your application and supporting documents. The officer may request additional documents if they need them. They will then approve or deny your application. If you’re approved, they’ll produce your new Green Card.
You can expect to receive an update when USCIS begins and completes card production. Your new Green Card will then be mailed to the address you provided on your application. In the meantime, you can use the receipt as proof of your continued status.
How Do You Check the Status of Form I-90?
Now that you’ve submitted Form I-90, Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card, chances are you’re going to want to get updates regarding its progress. You can do this by checking the status in several ways:
Online Case Status Tool:
- Go to the USCIS website (www.uscis.gov)
- Click on “Check Case Status”
- Enter your 13-character receipt number
USCIS Account:
- If you filed online, log into your USCIS online account
- View detailed case updates and any requests for evidence
myUSCIS:
- Create a myUSCIS account if you don’t have one
- Link your case to your account using your receipt number
Case Status by Phone:
- Call the USCIS Contact Center at 1-800-375-5283
- Use the automated system or speak with a representative
e-Request:
- If your case is outside normal processing times, you can submit an e-Request
In-person Inquiry:
- Schedule an appointment at a local USCIS field office through InfoPass
When you’re checking your status update, you’ll need your receipt number (Begins with IOE, WAC, LIN, SRC, or EAC) and your A-Number (Alien Registration Number). Keep in mind that processing updates might not be immediately available and it could take 24 hours to reflect some updates.
Is I-90 the Same as a Green Card?
It’s easy to see why so many people confuse Form I-90 with a Green Card. After all, the two are closely related. Your Green Card, which is officially known as a Permanent Resident Card, is a document that proves your status as a lawful, permanent resident of the United States. It allows you to live and work permanently in the U.S.
Form I-90, however, is the process you go through to renew or replace a Green Card once you have already been issued an initial Permanent Resident Card. So the Green Card is the actual document, while the I-90 is the application to replace or renew the document.
What Is the Average Processing Time for I-90 in 2024?
As of 2024, the average USCIS processing time for I-90 applications is 3 to 13 months. In some cases, you may request expedited processing if you meet certain criteria.
The average processing time for Form I-90 (Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card) can vary. Factors like the USCIS workload, the service center that handles your application, your reason for filing, and whether or not you need further evidence can all affect the timeframe.
Remember that these are general estimates, and individual cases may vary. USCIS processing times can change based on various factors, including policy changes and application volume.
What to Expect After You Submit Form I-90
After filing, you’ll receive a receipt notice with a case number. This notice can be used to check your case status online. Most applicants for an Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card will also need to attend a biometrics appointment. This appointment will typically be scheduled 1-3 months after filing.
Can I Travel While My I-90 Is Pending?
In most cases, Green Card holders can travel while your I-90 application (Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card) is pending. However, there are some important considerations you’ll need to keep in mind for domestic and international travel.
Domestic travel:
- You can travel within the United States while your I-90 is pending.
- Carry your expired green card and I-90 receipt notice as proof of your lawful permanent resident status.
International travel:
- It’s generally not recommended to travel internationally while your I-90 is pending.
- If you must travel internationally, you may need to obtain additional documentation:
- A temporary I-551 stamp in your passport (also known as an ADIT stamp)
- A transportation letter from USCIS
Re-entry to the US:
- An expired green card alone may not be sufficient for re-entry.
- The I-551 stamp or transportation letter can help facilitate your return.
How Many Times Can You Submit Form I-90?
There is no set limit on how many times you can submit Form I-90 throughout your life as a lawful permanent resident. You can file Form I-90 whenever you have a valid reason to replace or renew your Green Card.
However, it’s important to note that frequent submissions of Form I-90, especially for reasons like repeated loss or damage, may raise questions with USCIS about your ability to maintain important documents. Therefore, while there’s no technical limit, it’s in your best interest to keep your Green Card safe and only file Form I-90 when truly necessary.
Get Help Completing Form I-90, Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card
Do you need help completing Form I-90, Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card? FileRight can guide you through the process. Our step-by-step online software simplifies the application, ensuring you provide all necessary information accurately. We also offer expert review to catch any potential errors before submission, helping to minimize delays in receiving your new Green Card.
