A U.S. permanent resident card, commonly known as a green card, is essential for proving your legal status in the country. Whether your card is expired, lost, damaged, or contains incorrect information, taking the proper steps ensures you maintain proof of your residency. Understanding the process helps avoid unnecessary delays and complications. If you need to replace or renew a green card, follow this guide to complete the process efficiently.
When You Need to Renew or Replace a Green Card
There are several reasons why you may need a new green card. Each situation requires a specific approach to ensure your new card arrives without issues.
- Expiration: Green cards issued to permanent residents are valid for ten years. Conditional residents receive cards valid for two years. If your card is nearing expiration, begin the renewal process at least six months in advance.
- Loss or Theft: A missing green card must be reported and replaced immediately to prevent unauthorized use.
- Damage: If your card is no longer legible or is physically damaged, a replacement is required.
- Incorrect Information: Errors in your personal details, such as your name or date of birth, necessitate a corrected version.
- Change in Status: If you transition from a conditional resident to a permanent resident, you must replace your card with an updated version.
Each of these situations requires filing the appropriate form and providing the necessary documentation to ensure USCIS processes your request.
How to Renew an Expiring Green Card
An expiring green card must be renewed before it becomes invalid. To avoid complications, apply as early as possible. Follow these steps to complete your renewal:
- Prepare Form I-90: The Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card (Form I-90) is required for renewal. You can file it quickly online or by mail.
- Gather Supporting Documents: A copy of your expiring or expired green card must be submitted along with your application.
- Pay the Fee: USCIS requires a filing fee, which you can pay online or by check. Fee waivers may be available for those who qualify.
- Submit Your Application: Once your form and documents are ready, submit them through the USCIS website or mail them to the designated address.
- Attend Biometrics Appointment: If required, USCIS will notify you of an appointment to capture your fingerprints and photo.
- Check Case Status: Use the USCIS online tracking system to monitor your application’s progress.
A renewal request generally takes several months to process, so keeping track of deadlines is crucial.
Replacing a Lost, Stolen, or Damaged Green Card
Losing your green card unexpectedly can be a very stressful experience, but replacing it follows a clear process. Whether the card is missing, stolen, or physically damaged, immediate action ensures you receive a new one promptly.
Start by completing Form I-90 and providing an explanation of why you need a replacement. If your card was stolen, you should consider filing a police report to document the incident. The filing fee remains the same as for a standard renewal, and a biometrics appointment may be required. Once USCIS approves your application, you will receive a new green card.
Updating Incorrect Information or Changing Resident Status
If your green card contains errors, corrections must be made as soon as possible. Errors made by USCIS are corrected free of charge, but if the mistake resulted from incorrect information you provided, a new application and filing fee are required.
Permanent residents who were initially granted conditional status must take additional steps to obtain a full ten-year card. Instead of filing Form I-90, conditional residents must submit Form I-751 (for marriage-based cases) or Form I-829 (for investor-based cases). USCIS requires supporting evidence to confirm eligibility for permanent residency.
What to Do While Waiting for Your New Green Card
Processing times for renewals and replacements vary. If you need proof of residency before receiving your new card, USCIS provides temporary documentation. After filing Form I-90, you will get a receipt notice that extends your current card’s validity for 24 months. This notice serves as proof of your legal status while you wait.
If you require urgent proof, you can schedule an appointment at a local USCIS office to request an I-551 stamp to be placed in your passport, which confirms your permanent resident status.
Take Action to Renew Green Card Without Delays
A valid green card is vital for maintaining your legal status in the U.S. Understanding when and how to renew or replace it helps prevent issues with employment, travel, and identification. Start the process early, ensure all documents are accurate, and follow USCIS guidelines closely. Taking proactive steps will make your green card renewal or replacement as smooth as possible.
