Green Card Renewal
IMMIGRATION ATTORNEY LAURA LEON
After securing your green card, it’s important to keep it up-to-date for work, travel, and everyday proof of legal status. People are often surprised when they find out that green cards expire, even though their status as a permanent resident does not. If your green card is getting close to its expiration date or it’s already expired, renewing it can help you avoid unnecessary complications and delays.
At Laura Leon Law, we help green card holders keep their permanent resident status in good standing. Call us at 979-401-2737 to set up a consultation right away.
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What is Green Card Renewal?
Green card renewal is the process used to keep an expiring 10-year green card valid. Note that the expiration of the card is separate from your legal status; while your legal status as a permanent resident does not expire, your card does.
Renewals are processed by USCIS. You need a valid green card for employment verification, international travel, and identification purposes.
Although your underlying legal status remains intact even if your card is expired, having an up-to-date card at all times can help prevent avoidable stress and delays.
Who Must Renew a Green Card
Typically, lawful permanent residents who hold a 10-year green card must renew it when it is near expiration (or if the expiration date has already passed).
Not all green card holders go through this process. Those who do not go through this process include conditional permanent residents with a two-year green card (such as the one granted after marriage to a citizen or permanent resident) and people who need a replacement card because their original card was lost, stolen, or damaged. Since permanent green cards last 10 years, many green card holders choose to apply for U.S. citizenship before ever needing to renew their green card.
How to Renew a Green Card
Renewing your green card typically begins with filing Form I-90, Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card. This is largely an administrative process; since you already have legal status, your ability to remain in the United States doesn’t hinge on this application. However, it’s still important to fill out your form in an accurate and timely manner to avoid issues with travel and work. The general application steps include:
- Confirming your eligibility for renewal
- Completing Form I-90 correctly per the form’s official instructions
- Submitting all required supporting documentation
- Paying the filing fee or requesting a fee waiver if you qualify; the fee is typically between $415 and $465, depending on your reason for applying, when your card will expire, and if you file online or via paper form
- Attending a biometrics appointment, if required
- Waiting for proof of receipt and, eventually, your replacement green card
How Long Does It Take To Renew a Green Card?
Processing times vary, depending on the current case load and whether or not you submit everything correctly the first time.
Problems You May Face During Renewal
While this process is fairly straightforward, there are issues that may arise and cause unnecessary delays. Common problems include:
- Waiting too long to file and your card expiring while you wait for your form to be processed
- Errors, inconsistencies, or sections left empty on Form I-90
- Unclear information and documentation
- Missed biometrics appointments
- Processing delays that interfere with your ability to travel internationally or go through the employment verification process
This is why we recommend starting the process early and taking your time on your Form I-90. Time spent verifying the accuracy and thoroughness of your application now can save you weeks down the line.
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What Happens If a Green Card Expires?
Whether you don’t renew in time to get a new card before your expiration date or you don’t even start the process until your green card has expired, people find themselves in this position somewhat frequently, so you’re not alone.
Your green card expiring does not mean you lose your legal status. Even though it doesn’t interfere with your legal status, it can affect your ability to complete employment verification, reenter the United States after traveling abroad, or access benefits that required proof of legal status.
Being aware of your expiration date and renewing in time can ensure that you have uninterrupted proof of lawful permanent residence.
Replacing a Lost, Stolen, or Damaged Green Card
Some situations call for a replacement green card, not a renewed one. If your card has been lost, stolen, or damaged, you’ll still fill out Form I-90. However, the process is slightly different. This also applies to those who need a new card because they’ve legally changed their name or received a card with incorrect information.
How Laura Leon Law Can Help
If you’re worried about renewing your green card on your own, the team at Laura Leon Law can help you navigate the process and submit necessary documentation in a timely manner. We can assist with:
- Confirming if renewal or replacement is appropriate
- Preparing and reviewing Form I-90
- Addressing issues that may affect renewal
- Planning ahead to avoid unnecessary delays
Maintaining a valid green card is an important part of living in the U.S. as a lawful permanent resident. If you need assistance renewing your green card, we’re here to help. Call us at 979-401-2737 or contact us online now.
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Schedule Your Appointment for Green Card Renewal Support
Keep your permanent resident status in good standing with timely green card renewal. Even though your status does not expire, your card does, and delays can affect work, travel, and identification.
Laura Leon Law guides you through Form I-90, documentation, and deadlines to help avoid unnecessary complications.
Call 979-401-2737 today to schedule your consultation.
