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Whether your Green Card expired recently, or it is on the verge of expiration, it is important to know the details of the renewal process.
From eligibility criteria to potential reasons for denial and everything in between, we have compiled a comprehensive guide that provides insights into the Green Card renewal fee, the steps of the application process and the processing time.
Plus, we will answer common questions and explain how our lawyers at Spar & Bernstein can help you on your Green Card renewal journey.
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Bradford H. Bernstein
This article was written and reviewed by Bradford H. Bernstein, a second-generation leader at Law Offices of Spar & Bernstein, P.C., who has helped over 100,000 clients with immigration and personal injury issues. Brad joined the firm in 1993, became a partner in 1997, and assumed leadership in 2000 after Harry Spar retired.
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How Much Is The Green Card Renewal Fee?
The filing fee for renewing your Green Card is $465 if you use a paper application, and $415 if you file your application online. In addition to the filing fee, you might need to pay a biometric services fee of $85.
Payment methods include credit card payment, money order, personal or cashier’s check.
Each fee should be paid separately.
The fees for filing and biometric services are non-refundable and conclusive, irrespective of the outcome of your application or whether you decide to withdraw your request.
You will not have to pay a Green Card renewal fee if you did not receive it and meet one of the following requirements:
- The Green Card was sent by the USCIS more than 30 days ago
- The Green Card was returned to the USCIS as undeliverable
- You have not moved from the address you provided to USCIS
- Your existing card has incorrect data due to an error made by the Department of Homeland Security
- You have reached your 14th birthday and your existing card will expire after your 16th birthday
Typically, in the cases when you do not owe a filing fee, you will need to submit additional documents. An experienced immigration lawyer can help you determine what documents are needed.
At The Law Offices of Spar & Bernstein, we have handled immigration cases for more than six decades. From citizenship and naturalization to family and employment immigration, we have a rich portfolio of success stories.
Schedule a consultation with our knowledgeable attorneys and we will give you the latest information regarding your Green Card renewal fee, the necessary documentation and expected processing time.
Green Card Renewal Process For Permanent Residents
For lawful permanent residents, Green Cards are valid for 10 years.
Follow the steps below, if your Green Card expires within the following six months or has already expired.
1. Check Your Eligibility
Verify your eligibility for Green Card renewal by confirming whether you are within the renewal window mentioned above.
If you do not see an expiration date on the front of your Green Card, the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) recommends filing a renewal application, as most old versions are no longer valid.
2. Prepare Form I-90 And Supporting Documents
Complete Form I-90, Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card. Provide accurate and up-to-date information.
Collect all necessary documents, including:
- A copy of your expiring Green Card
- Supporting identification
- Any additional documentation required for specific circumstances (for example, a court order or a marriage certificate that proves a name change)
3. Pay Fees
Pay the filing fee for Form I-90 and the biometrics service fee, if applicable. Make sure to check the latest fee amounts on the USCIS website or contact an experienced immigration lawyer to give you the most accurate fee information.
4. File Your Application
Submit your completed Form I-90, along with the required supporting and payment documents. You can file your application online or by mail.
Online applications
To file your Green Card renewal application online, create an online account. In addition to filing your application, you can use your online account to check your case status, receive updates and notifications, view estimated processing time and manage your contact information.
Mail applications
Send your application by mail to one of the USCIS addresses below:
U.S. Postal Service (USPS)
USCIS
Attn: I-90
P.O. Box 21262
Phoenix, AZ 85036-1262
FedEx, UPS, and DHL deliveries
USCIS
Attn: I-90 (Box 21262)
2108 E. Elliot Rd.
Tempe, AZ 85284-1806
5. Wait For A USCIS Receipt Notice
After submitting Form I-90, you will receive Form I-797C, Notice of Action, from USCIS, confirming they received your application and filing fee — check out the timeframe for receiving a USCIS receipt. The notice will contain your case number, which you can use to track the status of your application.
Form I-797C will grant you a validity extension of 24 months if you:
- Filed your renewal application on or after Sept. 26, 2022
- Have a pending renewal application that you filed prior to Sept. 26, 2022
6. Attend A Biometric Appointment
Visit a designated USCIS Application Support Center (ASC) to provide fingerprints and a photograph as part of the biometric process. (Read more about how long after biometrics you can get your Green Card).
7. Receive A Decision Notice
Once USCIS processes your Green Card renewal application, they will inform you about their decision.
If your application is approved, you will receive your new Green Card.
Although not common, your application for Green Card renewal can be denied. This might be the case if you:
- Committed a crime
- Spent extended periods of time outside the U.S. without proper documentation, which can be considered abandonment of your permanent residency
- Were engaged in fraud or misrepresentation
- Submitted inaccurate forms
If your Green Card renewal application is denied, you might have the option to appeal the decision or reapply with additional documentation addressing the issues raised in the denial notice. Talk to our immigration attorneys at Spar & Bernstein who will provide professional advice on your next steps.
Green Card Renewal Process For Conditional Residents
If you are a conditional resident, the validity of your Green Card is 2 years. Conditional Green Cards cannot be renewed.
Once the two-year validity period of your conditional Green Card is over, you lose your lawful status, along with the right to live and work in the U.S.
If you want to remain in the country, file a petition to remove conditions from your Green Card from 90 days before your conditional Green Card expires.
Sticking to this time frame is very important. If you apply for removal of conditions earlier, USCIS will return your petition. If you apply for removal of conditions after your Green Card expires without a valid reason to explain the delay, your petition is likely to be rejected.
To remove conditions:
- File Form I-751, Petition to Remove Conditions on Residence, if you have a marriage-based conditional Green Card
- File Form I-829, Petition by Investor to Remove Conditions on Permanent Resident Status, if you have an investment-based conditional Green Card
A removal of conditions scenario requires additional supporting documents. Contact our attorneys at Spar & Bernstein and we will help you with the process.
How Long Does It Take To Renew Your Green Card?
Renewing your 10-year Green Card takes approximately 19 months.
Various factors can affect your Green Card renewal timeline, including:
- Increased volume of applications that need to be processed by USCIS
- Errors or missing information in your application
- Issues with supporting documents
- Requests for additional evidence
- Background checks and security clearance
To minimize delays, make sure you check the processing time section on the USCIS website for updates and respond promptly to any requests for additional information.
Tips For Filing Your Green Card Renewal Application
To ensure a smooth and efficient Green Card renewal process, follow these tips compiled by our immigration team at Spar & Bernstein.
- Read the instructions carefully: Make sure to read the instructions for Form I-90 provided on the USCIS website to understand the requirements and avoid common mistakes.
- Use the correct form: Download the most recent version of Form I-90 directly from the USCIS website to avoid outdated forms.
- Complete all sections: Fill out all sections of the form accurately to minimize the risk of delays or rejection.
- Double-check your information: Verify all the information you provide, such as your name, date of birth, and A-number, to ensure it is correct and matches your previous records.
- Provide supporting documents: Include clear and legible copies of the required supporting documents, such as your current Green Card, a copy of your passport, and any other documentation.
- Pay the correct fee: Check the current filing fee and biometric services fee on the USCIS website. Make sure you pay the correct amount and use the accepted payment method.
- Check for fee waiver eligibility: If you cannot afford the filing fee, check if you qualify for a fee waiver by reviewing Form I-912, Request for Fee Waiver, and the accompanying instructions.
- Sign the form: Don’t forget to sign the form as unsigned forms will be rejected and returned.
- Keep copies of everything: Make copies of your completed form and all supporting documents before submitting them.
- Update USCIS with changes: Notify USCIS immediately if you change your address after filing your renewal application using Form AR-11, Alien’s Change of Address Card.
- Follow up on delays: If you don’t receive a receipt notice within a few weeks of filing, contact USCIS to confirm they received your application.
- Seek legal assistance: If you have any concerns regarding your renewal, talk to a trusted immigration attorney for guidance.
Need Help With Your Green Card Renewal? Schedule A Consultation With Spar & Bernstein
The process of renewing your Green Card can be easier if you work with Spar & Bernstein!
Our experienced team of immigration lawyers will:
- Provide accurate and up-to-date information, making sure your renewal application aligns with the current regulations
- Prepare your Green Card renewal application, identifying potential issues or discrepancies and minimizing the risk of delays or denials
- Help you compile and organize the necessary paperwork
- Provide tailored solutions if your case is complex
- Communicate with USCIS on your behalf, handling all requests for additional evidence or responding to inquiries
- Help you navigate through the appeals process, if your renewal application is denied
With Spar & Bernstein, you have a reliable partner committed to helping you every step of the way in the Green Card renewal process.
Work with our team to renew your Green Card.
Green Card Renewal FAQs
Still have questions about the Green Card renewal process? Explore the most frequently asked questions from our clients.
Can I work while my Green Card renewal is pending?
Yes, you can continue working with an expired Green Card if you have filed the renewal application on time and are waiting for a decision.
Read more on working in the U.S. with an expired Green Card in our recent article on the topic.
Can I travel while my Green Card renewal is pending?
Yes, you can travel while waiting for a decision on your Green Card renewal. Make sure you have your expired Green Card and the USCIS receipt notice for the renewal application with you while traveling.
Can I renew my Green Card if it has been lost or stolen?
Yes, you can! To replace a lost, stolen or damaged Green Card, file Form I-90. If your Green Card has been stolen, report it to local law enforcement.
Can I renew my Green Card if I have a criminal record?
In some cases, a criminal record may affect your eligibility. Schedule a consultation with our experienced immigration attorneys at Spar & Bernstein. We will assess your situation and explain your legal options.
Can I renew my Green Card if I have changed my name?
Yes, you can request renewal of your Green Card if you have changed your name. To support your request, provide the necessary documentation, such as a marriage certificate or a court order.
What will happen if I don’t renew my Green Card on time?
If you don’t renew your Green Card on time, you may face difficulties in proving your eligibility to live and work in the U.S. This can also affect your ability to travel or access certain benefits.
What happens if my Green Card expires while I’m outside the U.S.?
If your Green Card expires while you are outside the U.S., visit the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate for guidance. You may need to apply for a travel document or return to the U.S. as soon as possible.
Do I need to submit photographs with my Green Card renewal application?
No, you do not need to submit photographs with your Green Card renewal application. USCIS will take your photograph at your biometrics appointment.
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