Green Card Replacement: When You Need To Replace It + Process, Fee & Timeline

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.

View Brad's Bio

Bradford H. Bernstein

Green Card Replacement: Key Points

• You must replace your Green Card if it is lost, stolen, expired, or contains incorrect information
• The replacement process takes approximately 25 months
• The replacement fee depends on paper versus online filing
• Immigration lawyers can help you with the Green Card replacement process from accurate submission to handling legal issues

If you’ve received your Green Card and noticed a mistake or if it was stolen during a trip, don’t worry — you can replace it and ensure your status is properly documented.

We will explain:

• When you need Green Card replacement
• What steps the process includes
• What the Green Card replacement fee is
• How long you need to wait before getting your new Green Card

When Do You Need To Replace Your Green Card

A Green Card serves as proof of your lawful, permanent resident status in the U.S. and allows you to access various benefits.

As per U.S. legislation, all non-U.S. citizens must carry proof of registration with them at all times. This means you must replace your Green Card if it was:

• Lost
• Stolen
• Damaged

You also need a replacement if:

• Your name or other personal information has changed.
• You never received your Green Card after approval.
• Your Green Card contains incorrect information due to a USCIS error.
• Your status has changed — for example, you were a commuter living in Canada/Mexico but working in the U.S. and are now residing in the U.S. permanently, or vice versa.
• You have an outdated Green Card version, such as a Form I-151, Form AR-3, or Form AR-103.
• Your Green Card was issued between 1979 and 1989 and has no expiration date.

Replacement is different from renewal; the latter is required when your Green Card is expired or about to expire — you can read more about how to renew your Green Card in our detailed guide.

Green Card Replacement Process Step-By-Step

To replace your Green Card, follow the steps below:

1. Determine Your Eligibility

Confirm you have the right to request Green Card replacement, meaning it has been either lost, stolen, destroyed, or contains incorrect information.

2. Complete Form I-90

File Form I-90, Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card (Green Card), with the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).

Make sure you fill out all the required information, including personal details, the reason for requesting the replacement, and your mailing address.

3. Gather Required Documents

Prepare all applicable supporting documents: A copy of your current or damaged Green Card, evidence of name or biographical changes, or a police report if your Green Card was stolen.

4. Pay The Filing Fee

Pay the replacement fee with a money order, personal check, or cashier’s check. If you prefer credit or debit card payment, use Form G-1450, Authorization for Credit Card Transactions.

5. Submit Your Application

File your application

• Online by your USCIS account — you can create one if you don’t already have one.
• Via mail to the following address:

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

6. Attend Biometrics Appointment

USCIS may schedule a biometrics appointment for fingerprinting and identity verification.

7. Receive Your Card

After your application is approved, USCIS will mail your new Green Card to the address you provided. While waiting, you can track your case online through your USCIS account.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed by all the required steps, contact an immigration lawyer. This will ensure a smoother, less stressful process and will help avoid delays.

How Long Does It Take To Get A Replacement Green Card?

Green Card replacement typically takes about 25 months.

The processing time for Form I-90 depends on factors like your application details and USCIS workload.

Green Card Replacement Fees

The cost for filing Form I-90 on paper is $465 and $415 for online applications.

You will not have to pay to replace your Green Card if:

• There was an error made by the Department of Homeland Security.
• USCIS issued your card, but you never received it and still reside at the address provided.
• You are 14 years old, and your current Green Card will remain valid after you are 16 years old.

In some cases, you might be eligible for a Green Card replacement fee waiver. Talk to a trusted immigration attorney to understand your options.

Green Card Replacement: Key Takeaways

If you need to replace your Green Card, there are several important things to keep in mind:

• If your Green Card was damaged or lost, contains incorrect information, or you have a personal information or status change, you must file Form I-90 to replace it.
• An important part of the process is submitting supporting documents and attending a biometrics appointment.
• You must pay $465 for paper filing, and $415 for filing online.
• Immigration lawyers can ensure a hassle-free process by taking care of accurate paperwork completion, document collection, and submission to the right USCIS address.

Need Help To Replace Your Green Card? Contact Spar & Bernstein

Replacing a Green Card can feel stressful, but knowing you are not alone can help ease the burden of paperwork, fees, long wait times, and the fear of denial.

At Spar & Bernstein, we make the process easier so you don’t need to worry and can focus on other areas of your life.

Our experienced immigration attorneys handle everything — from completing Form I-90 and collecting the correct documents to filing your application with USCIS and providing updates on your case.

With Spar & Bernstein’s team, you have peace of mind while we work to secure your new Green Card.

Green Card Replacement: FAQs

Here are more answers to common questions about Green Card replacement compiled by our team of knowledgeable attorneys at Spar & Bernstein.

What should I do if my Green Card is lost or stolen while I’m outside the United States?

If you lose your Green Card while abroad, contact the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate. They will provide a boarding foil, which allows you to re-enter the United States. Upon returning, file Form I-90 to replace your lost or stolen card.

Can I expedite the Green Card replacement process?

USCIS grants expedited processing for a Green Card replacement in limited circumstances, such as severe financial loss, emergencies, or humanitarian reasons. To request expedited processing, contact USCIS and provide evidence supporting your urgent need.

Can I file Form I-90 online?

USCIS allows filing Form I-90 either online or by mail. Filing online provides benefits such as receiving instant confirmation and the ability to track your case status. To file online, create a USCIS online account and follow the instructions.

What happens if my Form I-90 application is denied?

If your Form I-90 application is denied, USCIS will send you a written notice explaining the reasons for the denial. You may file a motion to reopen or reconsider the decision if you believe the denial was in error or if you have new evidence. Consulting with an immigration attorney can help you understand your options and the best course of action.