The Green Card, which provides permanent resident status, is not a lifetime document. It needs to be renewed periodically, much like a driver’s license. Typically, a Green Card is valid for 10 years. Keep reading to discover how to renew this important visa if you are a permanent resident of the United States.
Preparing Your Documents
Step 1. Start the renewal process six months before your Green Card expires.
It's recommended to initiate the renewal process at least six months before your Green Card's expiration date. It's hard to predict how long the renewal process will take, as it can take several months. Although it doesn’t happen often, it’s best to be prepared in advance.
- You will need to renew your card if it has been stolen (in which case you should report it to the emergency department), lost, damaged, your information has changed, you turned 14 years old, or your status has changed to commuter.
Step 2. Complete the USCIS Form I-90.
Fill out Form USCIS I-90. This form can be found on the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) website. You can also fill it out on paper. It’s important to complete the form fully; otherwise, the renewal process will not begin.
- Form I-90 can be filled out online (where you can pay immediately) or you can request a paper form by calling 1-800-870-3676.[1] X Reliable Source US Citizenship and Immigration Services Go to Source
- You may be eligible for electronic submission of the form. For more information, visit their website.
Step 3. Pay the renewal fee.
Don’t forget to pay the renewal fee. Currently, it is $450.00, but it may change. This amount includes the biometric fee, meaning you will need to have your photo taken, fingerprints collected, and provide an electronic signature. You will include the payment when filling out the form online or when sending the paper version. USCIS accepts American Express, Mastercard, Visa, and Discover. Once your payment is processed, you will receive a receipt indicating the address to which you sent your documents. If biometrics are required, you will be notified of the date and location of your appointment.
- If you are filling out a paper form, send it along with the payment to: USCIS Attention: I-901820 Skyharbor, Circle S Floor 1 Phoenix, AZ 85034[2] X Source of Information
- Make payments by bank or personal check. Payments must be made in U.S. dollars to the Department of Homeland Security. Do not use abbreviations such as DHS, USDHS, or USCIS when writing the check, and do not send cash or money orders.
After Submitting the Form
Step 1. Wait for a notice or receipt from USCIS.
Wait for a notice or receipt from USCIS. It will be sent to you either by email (if you filed electronically) or by regular mail. Keep the receipt and notice as proof of your application for a new card.
- USCIS will send you Form I-797C or a notice of application. This notice confirms that you have submitted the form and contains all the necessary information for your next appointment.
Step 2. Attend your biometric appointment.
Attend the scheduled biometric appointment. Don’t forget to bring your appointment notice with you. During the biometric appointment, you will have your photo taken and fingerprints collected. Don’t worry if you don’t have any recent convictions.
- If you need a temporary document while USCIS processes your status, inform them at the appointment. You will receive a stamp in your passport confirming that you have applied for a new card. With this stamp, you can travel in and out of the United States.[3] X Source of Information
Step 3. Check the list of documents sent to you by the U.S. immigration service.
Review the list of documents provided by the U.S. immigration service and gather all necessary documents. Expect a notice regarding your next appointment. If there is no notice, you are on track to receive your new Green Card.
- You may need to attend an interview at a regional office. However, it’s also possible that you won’t need to attend any additional meetings, and your card will be mailed to you.
