citizenship Archives - Mokolo Law Firm

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:

Your green card is expired or will expire within six months
You are a permanent resident with a ten-year green card
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

Your current green card
Proof of residency
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.

Citizenship, ImmigrationJuly 3, 20250 comments

by Mokolo Law

How to Apply for the I‑601 Waiver for Illegal Presence

Immigration law is full of difficult decisions but facing a bar to admission due to unlawful presence doesn’t have to be the end of your journey. With the I‑601 Waiver, many immigrants have a real shot at legalization, even after overstaying a visa, entering without inspection, or being denied at a U.S. consulate.

Here’s everything you need to know about the Form I‑601 waiver especially if you’re working with Mokolo Law Firm, where our experienced immigration attorneys specialize in hardship waivers and complex immigration barriers.

What Is the I‑601 Waiver?

Form I‑601, also called the Application for Waiver of Grounds of Inadmissibility, is used when the U.S. government finds you ineligible for a visa or green card. This waiver gives you the opportunity to apply for forgiveness—so your case can move forward.

Common Grounds for needing an I‑601 waiver include:

Unlawful presence in the U.S. (more than 180 days or 1 year, triggering 3- or 10-year bars)
Fraud or misrepresentation (e.g., using a false document at entry)
Certain criminal convictions
Health-related grounds (e.g., lack of required vaccines)
Prior removal or deportation orders

The Difference Between I-601 vs. I-601A

Form I-601 is used by individuals applying from outside the U.S. or after being declared inadmissible during a visa or green card process.

Form I-601A, on the other hand, is for unlawful presence waivers filed inside the U.S. before the applicant departs for consular processing.

If your inadmissibility stems solely from unlawful presence (either over 180 days or over one year), and you’re still in the U.S., you must use Form I-601A.

Who Qualifies for the I‑601 Waiver?

To qualify, you must have a “qualifying relative” who would suffer extreme hardship if you are not admitted to the U.S.

Qualifying relatives include:

U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident (LPR) spouse
U.S. citizen or LPR parent
In certain cases, U.S. citizen or LPR children (especially under other waiver categories)

Note: The hardship is measured on the qualifying relative, not on you, the applicant.

How to Apply for an I‑601 Waiver

1. Confirm Inadmissibility

You must first be found inadmissible by USCIS or a U.S. consular officer. This usually happens during a visa or adjustment interview. Only then can you apply for the waiver.

2. Build the “Extreme Hardship” Argument

One of the most critical components of a successful I-601 application is proving extreme hardship to the qualifying relative. General emotional distress or separation is not enough. USCIS doesn’t grant waivers easily. You must prove that your relative would suffer hardship beyond the normal consequences of family separation.

You must demonstrate hardships such as:

*A spouse with a chronic illness who depends on your care
*A U.S. citizen child with special educational or medical needs
*Economic harm that would prevent your family from affording necessities
*Lack of safety or healthcare in your home country
*Separation from a support network that your qualifying relative depends on

All claims must be backed by documented evidence, such as:

*Medical reports, diagnoses, and treatment plans
*Financial records (tax returns, pay stubs, debts, etc.)
*Psychological evaluations
*Country condition reports (crime, poverty, healthcare access)

USCIS Considerations

USCIS evaluates a wide range of factors, including:

Health and treatment needs of the qualifying relative
Financial stability and the impact of separation
Educational access and employment opportunities
The applicant’s immigration history and length of U.S. residence
Family ties and potential separation
Criminal history and rehabilitation efforts
Community involvement and moral character

Application Package Checklist

The Application Package Checklist include:

*Form I‑601: Must be completed and signed.
* Filing fee: Check the latest fee at the USCIS.gov website.
* Personal affidavit: tell your story, truthfully.
* Affidavits from family, clergy, employers
* Evidence of hardship: should be organized into exhibits
*Cover letter: explaining your case and summarizing evidence

Application Timeline and Challenges

The I-601 process is hard, time-consuming, and often emotionally taxing. The average processing time could take 8–15 months, but varies by service center and case complexity and delays are common due to:.

*Requests for additional evidence (RFEs)
*Processing backlogs at the National Visa Centre (NVC)
*Lost or overlooked documents

Note: Always keep scanned copies of everything you send to USCIS and NVC.

Where to File

*If you are applying from outside the U.S., file through the consulate handling your immigrant visa
*If you are inside the U.S., mail the form to the USCIS address listed on the I‑601 instructions
*If in removal proceedings, you may be required to file with the immigration court

Denied Waiver

A denial of your waiver doesn’t necessarily mean the end. There are other options and they are:

*Filing Form I‑290B to appeal or reopen the case
*Submitting a new waiver with additional or stronger evidence
*Seeking alternate forms of relief (e.g., cancellation of removal, asylum)

Reasons why you should consult a Legal Practitioner

I‑601 waiver success depends on legal strategy, strong documentation, and persuasive hardship narratives. A small omission or vague hardship claim can result in denial. You need a professional attorney that is trained to:

*Identify every relevant hardship factor
*Guide you in assembling persuasive supporting documents
*Write compelling affidavits tailored to USCIS expectations
*Ensure procedural accuracy to avoid delays

Final Thoughts

The I-601 waiver is a powerful tool for overcoming immigration bars, but success depends on a clear legal argument, strong supporting evidence, and attention to detail.

At Mokolo Law Firm, we specialize in family-based immigration solutions, hardship waivers, and consular processing. We help clients build the strongest possible case by tailoring each waiver to their personal and legal circumstances. Let us build a compelling case for you and help you reunite with your family in the U.S. Call us today or schedule a consultation.

1-601 Waiver, ImmigrationJune 25, 20250 comments

by Mokolo Law

How To Apply For USA Citizenship in Houston Texas

So many legal and permanent immigrants residing in the U.S.A. have a desire to fulfil “The American Dream”. Such a dream can never be fulfilled without being a citizen of the country. Being a lawful permanent resident, you could be lucky to be eligible to become a U.S. citizen through naturalization. However, getting citizenship is a big mountain to climb, and you will need the help of an experienced immigration attorney and also have the proper understanding of the naturalization process.

How To Apply For USA Citizenship in Houston Texas

What Is Citizenship?

Citizenship is a legal status and relation between an individual and a state, granting rights and responsibilities. This status can be acquired through birth by U.S citizen parents, naturalization, or other means, such as declaration or inheritance. It is similar to naturalization. It has so many benefits and responsibilities that are beneficial to an individual. Its responsibilities are obeying laws, paying taxes, and serving on juries.

Benefits of U.S. Citizenship

The right to remain in the United States as a United States Citizen
Eligibility for a U.S. passport to travel internationally
Work without restrictions
The right to vote, hold elected public office, and apply for certain federal and state jobs
Avoiding green card renewal fees
Receive protection from the government
-The advantage of bringing in family members to the United States
The opportunity for citizenship for your LPR children under 18 years of age.

What Is Naturalization?

Unlike citizenship, naturalization is the legal process through which one acquires the nationality or citizenship of another country. It’s a remarkable way for immigrants who want to become well-recognized citizens of their new nation. The ultimate goal of naturalization is to grant individuals the same rights and responsibilities as those with natural-born citizenship, allowing them to fully participate in the country’s social, economic, and political life.

How To Apply For USA Citizenship in Houston Texas Through the Naturalization Process

Before you can become a citizen, you need to apply and go through the naturalization process. Applying for U.S. citizenship in Houston, Texas, is a well-structured and long process that involves several key steps. And the steps are:

1. Eligibility

Before applying for citizenship, you need to determine your eligibility for naturalization and make sure you meet the compulsory criteria (unless they qualify for an exemption or apply based on their U.S. military service). While some criteria are straightforward, others take some planning. To be eligible for naturalization, you must:

Be of the minimum required age (typically, at least 18)
Continuously and physically live in the United States as a green card holder for a certain number of years
Establish residency in the state or U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) district where they intend to apply
Have “good moral character”
Be proficient in basic spoken and written English and demonstrate knowledge of U.S. history and government
Register for military service (if a male of a certain age) and be willing to perform civil service when required-Register for military service (if a male of a certain age) and be willing to perform civil service when required
Swear allegiance to the United States

2. Prepare and Submit Form N-400

The Form N-400 is the official document to apply for U.S. citizenship, which is known as the Application for Naturalization. When filling this out, ensure you include the necessary documentation and the filing fee and the biometric services fee. And take note that free waivers are available for eligible applicants. The process to fill this form is:

Applicant will create a free account and file online through the USCIS website.
Or mail the completed form to the appropriate address listed on the USCIS direct filing addresses page.

3. Biometrics Appointment

After submitting your application, a biometrics appointment will be scheduled by USCIS at a local Application Support Center (ASC). At this stage, your personal information will be collected for the background check. Information like your fingerprints, photograph, and signature.

4. Interview and Tests

USCIS will send you a notification of a scheduled date and location of your naturalization interview, usually at the Houston Field Office. At the interview, a USCIS officer will review your N-400 application, you will be tested on the English language, which includes reading, writing, and speaking components, and you will also take the civics test, covering U.S. history and government.

5. USCIS Decision

After the interview, USCIS will provide a written notice decision of your interview. The decision could be: your application is approved, additional documentation is needed, you need to retake the tests, or your application is denied.

6. Attend the Oath Ceremony

After approval, a naturalization ceremony will be scheduled, where you will take the Oath of Allegiance to the U.S. A. This is the final step in becoming a U.S. citizen, and you will receive your Certificate of Naturalization.

Denied Citizenship Application

Sometimes, after the application submission and the interview process is completed, it’s still possible to get a denial response from USCIS. Even if you met all the eligibility requirements, here are some of the most common reasons citizenship applications get denied:

Missing documents or incomplete forms
Having a criminal record
Failing the language proficiency or civic knowledge tests
Providing false information or misrepresenting facts on your application

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Final Words On How To Apply For USA Citizenship in Houston Texas

If you’re ready to take the next step to become a naturalized citizen, contact a reputable Houston immigration and naturalization attorney for a consultation. At Mokolo Law Firm, we counsel each client about what to expect during the naturalization process, and answer all questions and concerns along the way.

Our goal is to provide legal guidance to permanent residents who apply for citizenship through the USCIS naturalization process, educate them to understand all the rights and responsibilities that come with citizenship and finally to help them become U.S. citizens to fulfill their American Dream.