The Essentials
- 10-year renewal: Green cards typically expire after 10 years, requiring renewal for continued permanent resident status.
- Avoid complications: While not penalized, an expired Green Card can hinder travel, employment, and activities requiring proof of residency.
- Simple renewal process: Apply using Form I-90, submit supporting documents, pay the $455 fee, and file online or by mail through your USCIS account.
- Conditional Green Cards: Different process applies, requiring removal of conditions after two years, not renewal.
The Essentials: Green Card Renewal Explained
Do Green Cards Expire?
Yes, standard green cards are valid for 10 years. You must renew before it expires to maintain permanent residency. If you have a conditional green card (valid for 2 years), you cannot renew it, but you need to apply to remove the conditions on your residence.
What Happens if My Green Card Expires?
There are no immediate penalties for having an expired green card, but it can cause issues when:
- Traveling internationally
- Getting a new job
- Renewing a driver’s license
- Proving your permanent resident status
How Often Do I Need to Renew My Green Card?
Every 10 years, unless you apply for citizenship through naturalization. It’s recommended to apply for renewal 10-12 months before expiration to avoid delays. Unless you are on the conditional green card which is only valid for 2 years.
Can I Skip Renewal and Apply for Citizenship?
If you’ve been a lawful permanent resident for at least 5 years (or 3 years if married to a U.S. citizen), you might be eligible for citizenship directly. [Read our citizenship guide here]
How to Renew Your Green Card:
It is a very simple process. The USCIS have made their applications easy enough to do without the use of an attorney. The forms are very easy to understand and also come with instructions.
- Download and complete Form I-90: Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card.
- Gather supporting documents: Usually just a copy of your current green card.
- Pay the filing fee
- Submit your application: Online or by mail.
Processing Time and Checking Status:
- Processing typically takes 10-12 months, but can vary. (In my personal experience I received my new green card in under 4 weeks in 2023.)
- You can track your application status online using your receipt number. Case Status. If you apply online you will hear faster than if submitted by mail.
What to Do if Your Renewal is Denied:
Straight away mail in a request for reconsideration or for them to appeal the decision. You will receive instructions on how to do that in your denial. Your denial should also explain why you were refused a reissued card – make sure you send evidence to support your case to appeal their decision.
Replacing a Lost Green Card
The process is similar to renewal, but you may also need to attend and pay for biometric screening.
- USCIS website: https://www.uscis.gov/i-90
Remember: This is a permanent residence card so you are required to fulfill that role meaning that you should live in the USA and/or have ties to the USA.
Abandoning your green card can result in you having your green card cut up by Custom and Border Patrol. Read here in our [Abandoning your Green Card] and our [Our Citizenship Guide]
—
All articles are written from our experiences and the experiences of our colleagues. These are fantastic visas and we wish to empower others in applying. This information is for general guidance only and shouldn’t be considered legal advice. This information is for general guidance only and shouldn’t be considered legal advice.
If you have any questions or encounter any issues that we have left out let us know – it is important that others are aware. Email here!