Managing Your Green Cards: Renewal and Replacement

The Permanent Resident Card, commonly referred to as a Green Card, is an essential document that confirms your status as a lawful permanent resident in the United States. Beyond serving as a critical form of identification, the Green Card is also a key proof of your right to live and work in the U.S. While some older versions of the Green Card might not have an expiration date, most cards issued today are valid for 10 years. For individuals with conditional permanent resident status, the card is typically valid for only 2 years.

To maintain your legal status and avoid potential complications, it's important to ensure that your Green Card remains current and accurate. This guide provides an in-depth look at the processes for renewing or replacing your Green Card, helping you navigate the requirements smoothly and efficiently.

The Importance of Renewing Your Green Card:

Here's why renewing your Green Card on time is essential:

1. Proof of Legal Status: An unexpired Green Card is a primary way to prove your permanent resident status in the United States. If your card expires, you may face difficulties in proving your legal residency, which can complicate your interactions with employers, landlords, and government agencies.

2. Travel Considerations: If you plan to travel outside the U.S., an expired Green Card can lead to complications upon reentry.

3. Employment Verification: Employers are required to verify your eligibility to work in the U.S. An expired Green Card can cause issues with employment verification processes, potentially affecting your ability to maintain or secure employment.

When to Replace Your Green Card:

There are several scenarios where you may need to replace your Green Card before its expiration date:

1. Lost, Stolen, or Damaged Card: If your Green Card has been lost, stolen, or damaged, it is crucial to apply for a replacement as soon as possible.

2. Changes to Information: If any of the information on your Green Card needs to be updated, such as your name or other personal details, you should apply for a replacement card. This ensures that your card accurately reflects your current information.

3. Turning 14: If you became a permanent resident before turning 14, you are required to replace your Green Card when you reach this age. However, if your card is set to expire before your 16th birthday, you can renew it instead.

Steps for Green Card Renewal: 

Eligibility, Required Documents, and Fees:

Maintaining your Green Card's validity is essential for ensuring your ongoing status as a lawful permanent resident in the United States. Below is a detailed guide on the eligibility requirements, necessary documents, and associated fees for the Green Card renewal process.

Eligibility for Green Card Renewal:

To renew your Green Card, you must meet the following criteria:

1. Lawful Permanent Residency Status: You must have lawful permanent resident status in the U.S. Green Card renewal is not applicable to individuals on temporary visas.

2. Card Expiration: Your Green Card should be expiring within the next 6 months. It is advisable to begin the renewal process at least 6 months before your card's expiration date to avoid any disruptions.

3. Non-Conditional Status: If you have a conditional Green Card, which is typically issued to individuals who obtain their status through marriage or investment, you must first remove the conditions before renewing your card. This process is distinct from the standard renewal procedure.

Removing 2-year Conditionality:

To remove conditions from a 2-year conditional Permanent Resident Card, you should not use Form I90. Instead, you must file the appropriate petition within 90 days before your card’s expiration:

1. For Conditional Residents Based on Marriage: File Form I-751, Petition to Remove Conditions on Residence.
2. For Conditional Residents Based on Investment or Entrepreneurship: File Form I-829, Petition by Entrepreneur to Remove Conditions on Permanent Resident Status.

The Green Card Renewal Process:

The process of renewing your Green Card involves several key steps:

1. Complete Form I-90: The first step is to fill out Form I-90, "Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card." This form is used for both renewing and replacing Green Cards.

2. Submit Required Documents: Along with Form I-90, you will need to provide several supporting documents. The specific documents required include:

• Photocopy of Your Current Green Card: Submit copies of both the front and back sides of your current Green Card.
• Copy of the Biographic Page of Your Passport: Include a copy of the passport page containing your photo and personal information.
• Proof of Continuous Residence: Depending on your circumstances, you may need to provide additional documents such as tax returns, rental agreements, and utility bills to demonstrate your continuous presence in the U.S.
• Passport-Sized Photos: Provide two recent passport-sized photos that meet USCIS requirements for formatting and size.

3. Pay the Fees: The total fee for renewing a Green Card is $550, which includes a $465 filing fee and an $85 biometrics fee. The biometrics fee covers the cost of capturing your fingerprint, photo, and signature. If you are eligible for a fee waiver, you may not need to pay these fees.

Special Note for Individuals Turning 14: If your Green Card will expire before your 16th birthday, you are subject to the same fees for renewal.

For Conditional:

Form I-751: 0$

Form I-829: $9525

Conclusion:

Renewing or replacing your Green Card is a critical responsibility for maintaining your lawful permanent resident status in the United States. By understanding the eligibility requirements, gathering the necessary documents, and following the detailed application process, you can ensure a smooth and successful renewal experience. If you encounter any challenges or uncertainties, consult us at Documitra and our expert team will help you with the process.