Renewing your green card can seem like a daunting task, but with this guide, it doesn’t have to be! In this post, we will walk you through the entire process of renewing your green card, including what you need to do and when you need to do it. We’ll also provide some tips on how to make the process as smooth and stress-free as possible. So whether you’re a first-time green card renewal applicant or you’ve done it before, this guide has everything you need.
When Should One Renew a Greencard?
Green cards are typically valid for a 10-year period, and must be renewed before the expiration date. It is important to plan ahead when it comes to renewal, as processing times can take up to 6 months.
To make sure your green card remains valid until your new one arrives, it is best to submit your renewal application at least 4 months before the expiration date. This allows enough time for USCIS to review and approve your application before the expiration date.
It is important to note that if you did not receive a renewal notice from USCIS (or were unable to locate it), you can still file Form I-90, Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card. This form is used for both green card renewals and replacements. Once filed with USCIS, applicants should expect an information packet in the mail within a few weeks regarding their case status and any additional necessary paperwork needed for processing.
Another point of consideration when applying for green card renewal is that if you are currently outside of the US, you will need to follow a different process. Depending on your country of residence and other factors, USCIS may require that you apply for an immigrant visa at a US consulate or embassy abroad. As such, it is important to know what renewal process applies in your specific situation before filing any applications.
How to Renew Your Green Card
The process of renewing your green card can be broken down into several steps, each of which should be completed in order to ensure a successful renewal.
Step 1: Gather the Necessary Documentation:
Before applying for green card renewal, applicants must first collect all necessary documentation and forms. This includes Form I-90 (Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card), as well as other documents such as proof of identity, proof of permanent residency status and a valid passport/travel document if applicable. Additionally, USCIS may also request that applicants provide supporting evidence for any change in name or address since the last time their green card was issued.
Step 2: Complete and Submit Form I-90:
Once all necessary documents have been gathered, applicants will need to complete and submit Form I-90 to USCIS. This form is available online or in print, but must be sent back via mail with the necessary filing fee included. Upon submission, USCIS will review the application and send an acknowledgment notice confirming its receipt.
Step 3: Attend Biometrics Appointment:
Applicants should expect to receive a biometrics appointment letter in the mail within two weeks after submitting Form I-90; this letter will include information on how to schedule an appointment at a local Application Support Center (ASC). At this appointment, USCIS will require you to provide fingerprints and take a photo for their database before proceeding with your application.
Step 4: Await Approval or Denial Letter from USCIS:
After attending the biometrics appointment and providing all necessary documentation, applicants should await a decision from USCIS regarding the outcome of their application. If approved, applicants will receive their new green card along with an approval letter in the mail; if denied, they will instead receive a denial letter notifying them of why their application was rejected. It may take 3 months or longer before either result arrives.
Renewing your green card doesn’t have to be complicated or time consuming with proper planning and preparation! By following these steps and adhering to all deadlines given by USCIS, you can ensure that your renewal is completed accurately and successfully; best wishes on your journey.
Green Card Renewal Processing Time: How Long Does it Take for a Green Card Renewal Application to be Approved?
Green card renewal processing time is typically longer than that of other immigration applications due to the extra steps and paperwork involved.
Generally, applicants should expect their application to take at least three months before receiving a decision from USCIS.
Once an application is filed, applicants will receive an acknowledgment notice confirming receipt by USCIS within 2 weeks.
After this, applicants may be required to attend a biometrics appointment at a local Application Support Center (ASC) in order to provide fingerprints and a photo for their records; biometrics appointments are usually scheduled 1-2 weeks after filing Form I-90.
Following the biometrics appointment, the average green card renewal processing time varies depending on several factors including where the applicant lives and how quickly USCIS is processing cases in that particular area. In some parts of the country, green card renewals can take as little as 2 months; however, it can also take up to 6 months or more for USCIS to process a case depending on how long it takes for them to review all necessary paperwork and documentation.
It’s important for applicants to not only consider the overall processing time when applying for green card renewal but also any additional delays due to unforeseen circumstances such as incomplete or inaccurate forms or missing documents.
In some cases, USCIS may request additional information before they can proceed with your application which could further extend the amount of time you need to wait before you hear back from them. As such, it’s important that applicants keep track of their applications and follow up with any requests made by USCIS in order to avoid prolonged delays in approval times.
In addition to filing Form I-90, some applicants may also be required to apply for an immigrant visa at a US consulate or embassy abroad if they are currently outside of the US. This process could potentially add an extra 3-6 months onto their total waiting period depending on factors such as their country of residence and whether they need to attend an in-person interview.
Ultimately, the time it takes for a green card renewal application to be approved depends on several factors and can vary from case to case.
What if I need My Green Card Sooner?
If you need your green card sooner than the average processing time, there are a few options available to you depending on your situation.
The first option is to request an expedited green card renewal which can potentially reduce wait times by several weeks or even months; however, this option may not be available in all cases and applicants should contact USCIS directly for more information regarding their eligibility and the requirements needed for expediting applications.
Another alternative would be to apply for a travel document such as an Advance Parole or Refugee Travel Document if you need to leave the US before receiving your new green card. This type of document will allow you to return legally without having to worry about being denied re-entry due to expired documents.
Finally, if you are currently outside of the US and need to return quickly, you may also be able to request an emergency appointment at a US consulate or embassy in your country. This option is typically only available for cases where there is verifiable evidence of an urgent need such as medical emergencies or funerals.
No matter what situation you find yourself in, it’s important that applicants contact USCIS directly with any questions or concerns regarding their green card renewal processing time so they can get the most accurate information and guidance possible.
How Much Is the Green Card Renewal Fee?
The current fee for renewing a green card is $455. This fee covers the cost of processing the application and producing a new green card, including any necessary biometrics appointments. Furthermore, if an applicant is applying for an immigrant visa from abroad, they may be required to pay additional fees depending on the consulate or embassy where they are applying.
In addition to the fee for submitting Form I-90, applicants may also need to pay filing fees for other forms such as an Affidavit of Support or Employment Authorization Document if they need permission to work in the US while their renewal application is being processed. These fees can vary and are subject to change without prior notice so it’s important that applicants check with USCIS regarding any updates or changes before submitting their application.
It’s important to note that these fees do not cover any potential travel costs associated with applying for an immigrant visa from abroad if you are currently outside of the US. If this applies to you, make sure you factor in any estimated travel costs when planning your budget accordingly.
How to Pay Your Green Card Renewal Fee
The green card renewal fee can be paid either by check, money order, or credit card. To pay by check or money order, make the payment payable to the Department of Homeland Security. If you’re paying by credit card, include the completed G-1450 Authorization Form with your application.
It is important to note that if a check or money order is returned for insufficient funds (NSF) or any other reason, this will be considered a refusal to pay the fee and your application will be denied. Therefore, make sure you double-check the payment details before submitting it to USCIS.
If you are unable to pay the full fee at once, you may also request an installment agreement from USCIS. This option allows applicants to submit partial payments over time until their green card renewal fee has been paid in full. However, keep in mind that this option is only available for certain circumstances, such as financial hardship or other extenuating circumstances. Please contact USCIS directly for more information regarding installment agreements.
It is also important to note that payments received after the payment due date listed on the I-90 form will not be accepted and your application may be denied as a result. Therefore, make sure you submit your payment in a timely manner to avoid any potential delays with your application processing time.
When Should I Renew My Green Card?
Generally, you must renew your Green Card every 10 years (sometimes referred to as the expiration or expiry date). You can renew your Green Card up to 6 months before it expires. To determine the exact date that you need to renew your Green Card, you should consult the expiration date printed on the front of your current card.
If you are a conditional resident (i.e., you obtained residency through marriage or investment) and would like to remove the conditions on your residency, you must file Form I-751 (Petition to Remove Conditions on Residency) within the 90 days prior to your Green Card expiration date.
If your current Green Card has already expired and you have not yet applied for renewal, it is important that you do so as soon as possible. If you are outside of the United States when your card expires, please contact the nearest U.S. consulate or embassy for information about applying for a new one.
It is important to remember that if your Green Card does expire before it can be renewed, or if you fail to renew it in time, there may be serious consequences including loss of permanent residency status, delays in obtaining employment authorization or other benefits, or even deportation proceedings. Therefore, it is important that you apply for renewal in a timely fashion.
If you are unsure of when to renew your green card, please contact USCIS directly for more information regarding their specific rules and regulations. Additionally, make sure to submit your application early as processing times can vary significantly depending on individual circumstances.
FAQS
How to Renew Your Green Card in 8 Simple Steps
1. Gather the Necessary Documents:
To complete your Green Card renewal application, you will need to submit certain documents and forms. These may include a copy of your current Green Card and other forms of identification, such as a passport or driver’s license. You will also need to provide evidence of continuous U.S. residency since you obtained the card, such as rent receipts or utility bills that show your address over this period of time.
2. Complete the Form I-90:
The official form you must submit to renew your Green Card is called Form I-90, or Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card. You will find instructions and a list of required documents on the form itself.
3. File Your Form I-90 and Required Documents:
After completing your form I-90, you can mail it to the address listed on the form. When filing your application and supporting documents, make sure to include a check or money order to cover the applicable fees.
4. Attend Your Biometrics Appointment:
After submitting your application, USCIS may ask you to attend an appointment at a local Application Support Center (ASC) to provide biometric information, such as fingerprints or a photograph.
5. Receive Your Receipt Notice:
After your application has been submitted and you’ve attended your ASC appointment, USCIS will send you a receipt notice in the mail. This notice will include details about when and where you should expect to receive your new Green Card.
6. Receive and Review Your Renewed Card:
Once your application is approved, you will receive your new Green Card in the mail. Once you have received it, carefully review it for any errors or omissions. If there are any discrepancies, contact USCIS immediately to correct them before using the card as proof of your lawful permanent residency status.
7. Update Your Personal Information:
If any of your personal information has changed since you originally applied for your Green Card, it is important to update this information with USCIS by filing a Form AR-11. This form is used to notify the agency of changes in address and other relevant details.
8. Keep Your Card Up to Date:
Once you have received your new Green Card, be sure to review the expiration date and make note of when it is time to renew it again. Typically, Green Cards issued after May 10, 2010 are valid for ten years. Renewals should be filed in the 90 days prior to this expiration date. If your Green Card expires before it can be renewed, contact your local U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) or the nearest U.S. consulate or
Following these steps will help ensure a smooth renewal process and prevent any interruption in your status as a lawful permanent resident of the US. Additionally, if you have any questions or concerns about renewing your Green Card, contact USCIS for assistance. Renewal is an important process and must be completed to maintain your lawful permanent residency status and prevent deportation proceedings. It is best to start the renewal process several months before your current card expires to ensure that you receive your new card on time.
Can I Work in the US With an Expired Green Card?
Yes, you can still work in the US with an expired Green Card as long as you have submitted your renewal application within the 90 days leading up to its expiration date.
However, you may need to provide proof of your lawful permanent residence status to your employer before beginning work. This could include a copy of the receipt notice from USCIS confirming that your renewal application has been filed as well as valid forms of identification such as a passport or driver’s license.
What Document do I Need to Renew My Green Card?
To renew your Green Card, you will need to complete and submit Form I-90, or Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card. You can find the form and instructions on how to file it on the USCIS website. When submitting the application, do not forget to include any applicable fees with a check or money order.
You will also need to attend an appointment at a local Application Support Center (ASC) to provide biometric information such as fingerprints or photographs. After your application has been submitted and you’ve attended the ASC appointment, USCIS will send you a receipt notice in the mail. Once your application is approved, you will receive your new Green Card in the mail.
What Do You Expect After Applying for Renewal
Once you have applied to renew your visa, the processing times may vary depending on the type of visa that you are applying for. For example, if you apply for a visitor visa (VMV) renewal, it can take anywhere between five and ninety days to process your application. If you require an employment authorization document (EAD), it will generally take about ninety days for the USCIS to process your renewal.
In most cases, you will receive a letter or email from the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) confirming that your application has been received and is being processed. If additional documentation is required, they will contact you with instructions on how to submit it. During this time, you can continue to work in the US as long as you are still legally allowed to do so.
If your application is accepted, the USCIS will issue a document called an I-797 Notice of Action. This is a formal legal document that officially confirms that your visa renewal was approved. The I-797 will include important information about your new visa, such as the expiration date, type of visa and any other special conditions. It is important to keep this document in a safe place for future reference.
In some cases, you may be asked to attend an interview at a USCIS office before receiving an approval or denial notice. During the interview, a USCIS officer will ask you questions about your application and any relevant supporting documents. After the interview, the officer will make a decision regarding your visa renewal.
If approved, you will be issued an I-94 form which confirms that you have been granted permission to stay in the US for a specified period of time. It is important to keep this form with your other immigration documents. If your application is denied, you will be issued a document called a Notice To Appear (NTA). This notice will list the reasons for the denial and inform you of your right to appeal the decision.
How To Replace Your Green Card
If your Green Card is lost, stolen, damaged or mutilated, you must replace it by filing Form I-90. You can apply for a replacement card if any of the following applies to you:
- Your card has expired or will expire within the next six months;
- Your name or other biographic information has been legally changed since you last received your card;
- You are a Green Card holder using a conditional permanent resident (CPR) status and the conditions of your status have been removed; and
- USCIS made an error when producing your card.
To apply for a replacement, you must submit Form I-90 with the required filing fee of $455. Depending on your situation and eligibility, USCIS may also require additional evidence of your identity and immigration status. If so, they will let you know what is needed to complete your application.
Once USCIS receives your replacement application and fee, they will review it to determine if it is complete and correct. If your application is approved, you will receive a new card in the mail. It usually takes between 4-6 months for USCIS to process a Green Card replacement request.
If your card is lost or stolen, you should also report this information to the police. This is important as it may help to protect you from identity theft or fraud.
It is your responsibility to make sure that your Green Card remains valid and up-to-date at all times, so be sure to replace it if needed. Filing Form I-90 will start the process of replacing your card and help you to maintain your legal immigration status in the U.S.
How to Check Your Green Card Renewal Status
Once you have filed your green card renewal application, it can be hard to know when it will be processed and if the renewal was approved or denied. Fortunately, there are several methods of tracking your green card renewal status and getting updates on the progress of your application.
- One way to track and monitor the status of an individual’s green card renewal is to use the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Service’s online tracking system, known as ‘Case Status Online’. This system allows you to check the status of your green card application by entering a receipt number or Alien Number. You can find this information on the notice that was mailed to you when your application was received.
By using this system, you can check the status of your application and get notifications when there are updates.
- Another way to monitor your green card renewal status is by calling the USCIS National Customer Service Center. You will need to provide them with your receipt number or Alien Number in order to check on the status of your application. The USCIS hotline is available Monday through Friday from 8am to 6pm Eastern Standard Time.
- Finally, you may also be able to check on the status of your green card renewal by visiting a local USCIS office in person. Be sure to bring your receipt number or Alien Number, as well as any other documents that were requested as part of your application. The office can provide you with updates on the status of your application, and may even be able to offer additional information about the renewal process.
By using one or all of these methods, you can stay informed on the progress and status of your green card renewal.
What to Do if Your Renewal Application Is Denied
If your renewal application has been denied, you have the right to appeal the decision. You should file an appeal as soon as possible so that your case can be heard in a timely manner. The process for filing an appeal is as follows:
- Request a Hearing: You must submit a formal request for a hearing within 30 days of receiving the denial notice. You can do this by completing a Request for Hearing form and submitting it to the appropriate agency. The request should include your name, address, telephone number, and any evidence that supports your claim.
- Prepare For Your Appeal: Before you go to your hearing, you will need to prepare an argument in support of your renewal application. You should collect any evidence that can be used to support your argument, such as documents or witness testimony.
- Attend the Hearing: At the hearing, you will have an opportunity to present your case and make arguments in favor of your renewal application. The agency’s representative may present evidence on their behalf and cross-examine witnesses.
- Receive a Decision: The agency will issue a decision after the hearing is complete. If your appeal has been successful, you will be granted a renewal of your permit or license. If your appeal is unsuccessful, you may challenge the decision in court.
No matter what the outcome of your appeal is, it’s important to remember that you have the right to challenge any decision made by an agency. With the right assistance and guidance, you can take steps to ensure that your rights are protected.
Does a Green Card Renewal Require an Interview?
In general, a Green Card renewal does not require an in-person interview with the United States Citizenship & Immigration Services (USCIS). However, if your situation has changed significantly since you originally received your Green Card, or any of the other conditions listed below are met, then USCIS may initiate an in-person interview.
The following circumstances may require an interview for Green Card renewal:
- You filed Form I-751, Petition to Remove Conditions on Residence;
- There are indications of fraud or misrepresentation in the original application;
- USCIS needs additional information that cannot be obtained through other sources;
- Your prior grant of permanent residence was based on an adoption that did not meet the requirements for automatic acquisition;
- You were admitted to the U.S. as a K nonimmigrant and later acquired permanent resident status; or
- Your prior grant of permanent residence was obtained through marriage to a U.S. citizen, but you have been separated from your spouse for more than two years.
If you are required to attend an interview, it will be held at the USCIS office closest to your place of residence. You may bring a legal representative with you to the interview; however, they must provide written authorization from you prior to attending. At your interview, a USCIS representative will evaluate your eligibility for Green Card renewal.
It is important to note that the USCIS reserves the right to request an in-person interview at their discretion, even if you would not normally qualify. If this occurs, make sure to bring all original documentation relating to your application and be prepared to answer any questions that may arise during the interview.
How Often Should I Renew My Green Card?
For most permanent residents, a Green Card (also known as a Permanent Resident Card) is valid for 10 years. Before the card expires, you must apply to renew it. The United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) recommends that you apply to renew your green card at least 6 months before it expires.
It is important to renew your green card as soon as possible, as it is not valid if it has expired. Additionally, you may be unable to travel outside of the United States unless your Green Card is up-to-date.
How Do I Get My Green Card Renewal Fees Waived?
If you are unable to pay the fee for your green card renewal, you may be eligible to have it waived. Generally speaking, this waiver is available to those who can demonstrate financial hardship.
To apply for a fee waiver, you will need to submit Form I-912, Request for Fee Waiver. You will need to provide evidence that you are unable to pay the fees associated with your green card renewal, such as tax returns, bank statements, and proof of income.
Additionally, USCIS has discretion when making determinations of eligibility for a fee waiver so it is important to provide as much detail as possible in your request. If your fee waiver request is approved, you will not be required to pay the filing fees for your green card renewal application.
It is important to note that a fee waiver does not guarantee approval of an immigration benefit and it does not excuse applicants from meeting all the eligibility criteria for the benefit sought. You should always make sure to meet the eligibility requirements for any benefit you are applying for.
Additionally, if your request for a fee waiver is denied, you will need to submit the required fees in order to complete processing of your green card renewal application.
Can I Renew My Green Card From Outside The US?
Yes, you can renew your green card from outside the US. In order to do so, you must file Form I-90 with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). The form is available online or at a local USCIS office if there is one in your country of residence. You may also use a representative or attorney to help you in the process.
When filing your renewal, you must submit evidence of your identity and current green card. You must also provide a valid passport, two recent passport-style photographs, evidence of any name changes, and proof of residence abroad. Additionally, you must declare that you still have legal status or have not abandoned your green card. If you have been outside the US for more than one year, you must submit a re-entry permit.
Once USCIS has your renewal application, they will review it and either approve or deny it. It may take several months to receive confirmation and your new card, so be sure to plan ahead if you need it for travel or other purposes.
It is important to note that, if your green card has been expired for more than one year, you may need to apply for a new green card instead of renewing it. Contact USCIS or an attorney to confirm the appropriate procedure in your situation. Additionally, if you are planning on traveling outside the US, you may need to apply for a travel document before leaving the country.
Renewing your green card from outside the US is possible, but it does require you to follow certain steps and procedures. Be sure to consult with USCIS or an attorney if you have any questions about the process.
Conclusion
Renewing or replacing your green card is an important step in maintaining your legal residence status in the United States.
The process may seem confusing, but following the steps outlined above will help ensure that you complete it successfully and remain in good standing with USCIS. Be sure to follow all instructions carefully, provide accurate information, and submit any necessary documents before the deadline. Doing so will help ensure that your green card renewal or replacement is processed quickly and easily. If you have any questions, contact USCIS for more information.
Thank you for taking the time to read this guide and best of luck on your green card renewal or replacement process.
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