Green Card Renewal: Everything You Need to Know

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Renewing your green card is a crucial step in maintaining your lawful permanent residency in the United States. This guide covers everything you need to know about the green card renewal process, including when to apply, common pitfalls to avoid, and how an experienced attorney near you can assist you in navigating the complexities of immigration law.

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Learn everything you need to know about green card renewal, including eligibility, required forms, and common mistakes to avoid. Ensure your lawful permanent residency remains intact and connect with an experienced immigration attorney near you for assistance with the renewal process.

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Illustration of a person holding an expired U.S. green card while looking at a renewal form with a clock symbolizing urgency, representing the process of renewing a green card.

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Green Card Renewal: Everything You Need to Know

Green Cards and Permanent Residency in the U.S.

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Feb 25, 2025 09:07 PM

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Green Card Renewal: Everything You Need to Know

A green card is proof of lawful permanent residency (LPR) in the United States, allowing you to live and work freely. However, green cards are not valid indefinitely. Most green cards must be renewed every 10 years, while conditional green cards require additional steps before renewal.

If your green card is expired or expiring soon, it’s crucial to renew it promptly to avoid legal and travel issues. This guide explains when and how to renew your green card, common mistakes to avoid, and what to do if your renewal application is delayed or denied.

💡 For every post in this series, scroll down to “Related Posts.”

Who Needs to Renew Their Green Card?

1. Permanent Residents (10-Year Green Card Holders)

If your 10-year green card is expired or will expire within the next 6 months, you must renew it by filing Form I-90 (Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card).

2. Conditional Residents (2-Year Green Card Holders)

If you have a 2-year conditional green card (obtained through marriage or an investor visa), you cannot renew it.

Instead, you must file Form I-751 (Marriage-Based) or Form I-829 (Investor-Based) to remove conditions before your green card expires.

For details on removing conditions, see Green Card Through Marriage: Process, Requirements, and Timeline.

When to Renew Your Green Card

Situation	When to File for Renewal	Form to Use
Green card expiring within 6 months	Start renewal process immediately	Form I-90
Green card already expired	Renew as soon as possible to avoid issues	Form I-90
Green card lost, stolen, or damaged	File for a replacement immediately	Form I-90
Name change (marriage, divorce, etc.)	Submit proof of legal name change	Form I-90
Conditional green card (2 years)	Cannot renew; must remove conditions before expiration	Form I-751 or Form I-829

Step-by-Step Guide to Green Card Renewal

Step 1: Complete Form I-90 (Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card)

To renew a 10-year green card, file Form I-90 online or by mail with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).

Step 2: Gather Required Documents

Copy of your expiring/expired green card

Valid passport (if applicable)

Proof of name change (if applicable)

Police report (if lost or stolen green card)

Step 3: Pay the Green Card Renewal Fee

Filing fee: $455

Biometrics fee (fingerprinting and photo): $85

Total Cost: $540

Fee waivers may be available for applicants facing financial hardship.

Step 4: Attend the Biometrics Appointment

USCIS will send you a biometrics appointment notice within 4-6 weeks after filing.

You must visit an Application Support Center (ASC) for fingerprinting and a photo.

Step 5: Wait for USCIS to Process Your Renewal

Processing time: 6-12 months.

If USCIS requires additional evidence, they will send a Request for Evidence (RFE).

Step 6: Receive Your New Green Card

Once approved, USCIS will mail your new green card. Your permanent resident status does not change while waiting for renewal.

What If Your Green Card Renewal Is Delayed?

If your renewal is pending and you need proof of status for travel, work, or identification, you can:

Schedule an Infopass Appointment with USCIS – Request a temporary green card extension stamp (I-551) in your passport.

Use Your I-797 Receipt Notice – This serves as proof of continued residency for up to 24 months after green card expiration.

What If Your Green Card Renewal Is Denied?

1. Understand the Reason for Denial

USCIS may deny your renewal if:

You committed a crime that makes you ineligible for permanent residency.

You abandoned your U.S. residency by living abroad for too long.

You provided false information on your application.

You failed to submit the required documents.

2. File a Motion to Reopen or Reconsider

If USCIS made a processing error, you can file Form I-290B to request reconsideration.

If you are at risk of deportation, consult an immigration attorney immediately.

For more details, see What to Do if Your Green Card Application is Denied.

Can You Travel While Waiting for Green Card Renewal?

Yes, but you must carry proof of your pending renewal:

If traveling within the U.S.: Your expired green card + I-797 receipt serves as proof of residency.

If traveling internationally: Apply for a temporary I-551 stamp before leaving.

Green Card Renewal for Residents Living Abroad

If you are outside the U.S. when your green card expires, you may have difficulty re-entering the country.

Steps to Renew Your Green Card from Abroad:

Contact the U.S. Consulate – Some consulates may issue a boarding foil allowing travel back to the U.S.

File Form I-131 (Reentry Permit) – If planning to stay abroad for over a year, apply for a Reentry Permit before leaving.

How to Avoid Green Card Renewal Problems

Apply early – File for renewal at least 6 months before expiration.

Keep copies of all documents – Save a copy of your I-90 receipt notice.

Monitor your USCIS case status – Track your application at USCIS.gov.

Does Green Card Renewal Lead to U.S. Citizenship?

If you have had a green card for at least 5 years (or 3 years if married to a U.S. citizen), you may be eligible for naturalization (U.S. citizenship) instead of renewing your green card.

Apply using Form N-400 (Application for Naturalization).

See if you qualify in The Family-Based Green Card Process: How to Sponsor Your Loved Ones.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I Renew My Green Card After It Expires?

Yes, but you should renew it before expiration to avoid travel and employment issues.

How Long Does Green Card Renewal Take?

6-12 months on average.

Biometrics and additional reviews can cause delays.

What If I Lost My Green Card?

File Form I-90 immediately for a replacement.

If stolen, file a police report and include it with your renewal.

Can I Work While My Green Card Renewal Is Pending?

Yes, you can work as long as you have:

An expired green card + I-797 receipt notice.

A temporary I-551 stamp (if needed for employment verification).

Final Thoughts

Renewing your green card on time is essential to maintaining lawful permanent residency and avoiding legal complications. If you are approaching expiration, lost your card, or need to remove conditions, follow the correct process to stay compliant with immigration laws.

Need help with your green card renewal? ReferU.AI can connect you with an experienced immigration attorney near you for a smooth and stress-free renewal process. Apply early and maintain your status today!