The Green Card, or permanent resident card, is the document that grants lawful permanent residence in the United States. Green Card holders must periodically renew their Green Card to ensure that their permanent resident status is valid. This renewal does not affect permanent resident status, but is important to ensure that the resident's documents are current and valid.
Green Card Renewal Requirements
To renew their Green Card, applicants must meet the following basic requirements:
- Be a Valid Green Card Holder:some text
- The applicant must be a lawful permanent resident and have a valid green card that is about to expire or has expired.
- Form I-90:some text
- The applicant must complete Form I-90 (Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card), which is available on the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) website.
- Submit the Application before the Expiration Date:some text
- It is recommended to submit the renewal application 6 months before the expiration date of the card to avoid problems when trying to travel or work with an expired card.
- Payment of Fees:some text
- The applicant must pay the appropriate fees for the Green Card renewal. The current fee for renewal is $540 USD, which includes $455 USD for the application and $85 USD for fingerprinting.
Green Card Renewal Process
- Complete Form I-90:some text
- The first step is to complete the Form I-90 online or on paper. The form asks for basic information about the permanent resident and the reason for renewal.
- Pay the corresponding fee:some text
- The applicant must pay the application fee online or by mail. Be sure to check the payment methods accepted by USCIS.
- Send the Application:some text
- After completing the form and making the payment, you must submit the application to USCIS. If you submitted the application online, you will receive an electronic confirmation of your submission.
- Biometrics (if required):some text
- In some cases, USCIS will request the applicant to appear for fingerprinting and photo. This appointment can be scheduled within 30 days of filing the application.
- Wait for the Decision:some text
- After submitting the application, USCIS will process the renewal and send a new Green Card to the applicant once it has been approved. This process can take anywhere from 6 to 12 months, although in some cases it can be faster.
- Receive the New Green Card:some text
- If the application is approved, the applicant will receive their new green card at their registered address. This new card will be valid for 10 years.
Green Card Renewal Processing Times
Green Card renewal processing times can vary depending on USCIS workload. Generally, processing times are between 6 to 12 months, although in some cases it may take longer. It is important to file the renewal application early to avoid complications if the card expires while waiting for renewal.
Benefits of Renewing your Green Card
- Guarantees Permanent Residency Status:some text
- Although the Green Card is not proof of U.S. citizenship, having a valid card is essential to confirm that the resident has legal status in the United States.
- Access to Permanent Resident Benefits:some text
- Renewal ensures that the resident continues to have access to benefits such as legal work in the U.S., public education and social security benefits.
- International Travel:some text
- With a valid Green Card, permanent residents may leave and return to the U.S. without problems at points of entry, provided no immigration laws have been violated.
Consequences of Not Renewing the Green Card
If you do not renew your Green Card before the expiration date, you may face difficulties in traveling, working and accessing certain government benefits. However, late renewal does not affect your permanent resident status, but it is important to be aware of expiration dates to avoid inconveniences.
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