Steps to Renew Your Green Card

Renewing a green card is a process of extending the validity of a permanent resident card for lawful permanent residents who wish to continue residing in the United States. A green card owner is a lawful permanent resident of the United States of America and an identification of yourself, which proves that you have the right to legally live and work anywhere in the U.S. This green card has a life span of 10years before it expires and you are to renew it within the next six months or when it has reached its expiry date.
This guide explains the green card renewal process, including processing times, fees, and step-by-step instructions.

As a Lawful Permanent Resident, you can renew your green card yourself, but it is adivsable to let a professional immigration attorney take the stress off you and also, you will be sure it is done correctly without mistakes.

If you do choose to renew your green card yourself, the easiest method is usually renewing online using the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) online portal. When you renew your green card online, you can see when USCIS receives your application and get updates on its status.

Eligibility for Green Card Renewal

Not all green card holders are eligible for green card renewals. To be eligible, you must meet the following criteria:

1. Your green card is expired or will expire within six months
2. You are a permanent resident with a ten-year green card
3. You have not been outside of the United States for more than one year since receiving your green card

If you do not meet these criteria, you may need to apply for a replacement green card instead. It is important to consult with an experienced immigration lawyer to determine the best course of action for your specific situation.

Requirements for Green Card Renewal

1. Your current green card
2. Proof of residency
3. Personal identification documents

Green Card Renewal Processing Time

The processing time for renewing a green card is usually between 7 to 12 months from the date of filing Form I-90. However, there maybe be some delays which may happen due to:

* Additional security checks
* High volume of applications at USCIS
* Incomplete application submissions

Expedited Processing

If you need to renew urgently due to an emergency, financial hardship, or humanitarian reasons, you may request expedited processing. Supporting documentation is required. If approved, your application will be processed significantly faster.

Green Card Renewal Fees

Fees may change at anytime, so it is advisable to always check the USCIS website for the latest fees updates. If you are facing financial hardship, you may qualify for a fee waiver.

You are to make payments for:

* Application fee
* E-file fee
* Biometrics fee

Step-By-Step Guide to Renewing Your Green Card as a Legal Permanent Resident

Step 1: Sign into your USCIS Account

To renew your green card as a LPR, you must have an account with USCIS. Then sign into your account, using your email address and password to log in.

Note: Every member of your family will have their own account, even your minor children.

Step 2: Submit Form I-90

To start the renewal process, submit Form I-90 (Application to Replace Permanent Residence Card) with USCIS, Form I-90 is available online. You will need to fill it out entirely. You can file the form either online or by mail, which requires you to submit a photocopy of your current or expired green card, as well as pay your fees.

File Online
Create an account on the USCIS website, complete Form I-90, upload necessary documents, and pay the fees. Filing online allows you to track your application status and receive updates directly.

File via Mail
Download Form I-90 from the USCIS website, complete it, and mail it along with the required documents and payment to the address listed on the form.

Step 3: Receipt Receive Notification

After USCIS receives your Form I-90, you will get a receipt notice within 1 to 3 weeks. This notice includes a unique receipt number for tracking your case online.

Step 4: Biometrics Appointment Notice

USCIS will schedule a biometrics appointment within 4 to 6 weeks of receiving your application. You will receive an appointment notice with the date, time, and location.

Step 5: Attend Biometrics Appointment

The biometrics appointment is typically scheduled 2 weeks after receiving the appointment notice. Bring your appointment notice and a valid ID. Your fingerprints and photo will be taken.

Step 6: Receive Your New Green Card

Once biometrics are completed, USCIS will continue processing your renewal. Your new green card should arrive within 7 to 11 months from the date of filing.

When to Renew Your Green Card

Failing to renew your green card won’t cost you your lawful permanent resident status—but an expired card has no practical use. You can’t use it to prove your legal status in the U.S., nor can you present it for employment, travel, or other official purposes. That’s why it’s essential to keep your green card valid at all times.

It’s best to start the renewal process about six months before your card expires. If you’ll be outside the U.S. during that period, consider applying even earlier. An experienced Austin immigration attorney can handle the renewal process for you—preparing and filing Form I-90 (Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card)—so you can stay focused on what matters most.

Special Cases for Green Card Renewal

Applying for a fee waiver: Must file Form I-90 by mail.

Expired green card while traveling abroad: Contact the nearest U.S. consulate, USCIS international office, or U.S. port of entry before filing Form I-90.

2-year conditional green card: Follow a different process for conditional green card holders.

While your lawful permanent resident status does not expire, your green card does. Once you’ve been granted permanent residency in the U.S., you maintain that status as long as you follow the rules.

However, green cards are issued in 10-year increments. This is partly because your appearance may change over time, and physical cards can become worn or damaged.

If your green card has expired, you cannot use it for employment, international travel, or to verify your identity. That’s why it’s necessary to renew your green card every ten years by applying for a replacement.

How to Check Your Green Card Renewal Status

You can check your renewal status on the USCIS Case Status Online page by entering your receipt number. Creating a USCIS account allows you to receive case notifications.

What to Do If Your Green Card Renewal is Denied

If USCIS denies your renewal, you will receive a notice explaining the reason. You may be able to appeal or file a motion to reopen or reconsider the decision.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my green card renewal taking so long?
Processing delays can occur due to a high volume of applications, additional background checks, or incomplete applications. Ensure all documents are correctly submitted to avoid delays.

Can You Renew Your Green Card When You’re Outside the United States?
You can renew your green card if you’re outside the United States, although it may be better to file for renewal early. Naturally, you can’t do that if your travel was unexpected – but, if possible, you should renew your green card while you’re at home. If you’re outside the U.S. when your card expires, you’ll need to contact the nearest U.S. consulate in your area before you file your renewal form.

Can You Renew a Conditional Green Card?
If your green card has conditions attached to it – as is typically the case with marriage-based green cards – you can’t simply renew your card. You must petition the U.S. government to remove the conditions on your green card. If the government grants your petition, you’ll be issued a brand-new 10-year green card, which you won’t have to renew for another 9 years and 6 months.

What if my green card expires while waiting for renewal?
You are still a lawful permanent resident, but some activities, such as traveling or employment verification, may be challenging. Use your USCIS receipt notice (Form I-797) as proof of pending renewal. When you apply to renew within 12 months of an expiring Green Card, you will receive an I-797 that extends your status for an additional 12 months.

Can the U.S. Government Deny a Green Card Renewal?
The U.S. government can deny your petition to renew your green card; however, that doesn’t necessarily mean you’re deportable – or that you’re in danger of losing your lawful permanent resident status. In some cases, a denial is simply due to an administrative error.

There are cases in which the government will deny a person a green card renewal because that person is in danger of losing his or her permanent residency.

You can lose your permanent residency by:
* Committing a certain type of crime or a series of crimes
* Voting or attempting to vote as a U.S. citizen
* Failing to complete a timely change of address form with USCIS when you move to a new home
* Failing to establish a permanent residence in the U.S.
* Abandoning your permanent residence in the U.S.
* Committing fraud during the application process (either for the original visa that brought you to the United States or for your green card)

Can I travel while waiting for my green card renewal?
Yes, you can travel, but you must carry your expired green card and Form I-797 to re-enter the U.S. These documents confirm your lawful status

Are There Versions of the Green Card That Are No Longer Valid?
Previous versions of alien registration cards, such as USCIS Form AR-3, Form AR-103 and Form I-151, are no longer valid. You must replace them with a current green card.

Get Trusted Legal Help from Mokolo Law Firm

Going through the immigration process can be overwhelming, especially with strict requirements and the risk of delays from even small errors. Whether you’re renewing a green card, adjusting your status, or applying for lawful permanent residency, having the right legal guidance makes all the difference.

At Mokolo Law Firm, we focus exclusively on immigration law. Our experienced attorneys are well versed in the application process and are committed to helping clients avoid costly mistakes and unnecessary stress. Let us handle the paperwork while you focus on your future. Contact Mokolo Law Firm today to learn how we can assist you and your loved ones on your immigration journey.