Want to know how to renew a Green Card? Make sure you understand the process to keep your immigration status in good standing.
Getting a Green Card is one of the most important steps for any immigrant in the United States. Having one means you’re allowed to stay in the country legally staying and are now a permanent resident, getting you one step closer to your American dream. Knowing how and when to renew your Green Card is the first step to meeting your responsibilities with the U.S. government and staying within the law.
When Should I Renew My Green Card?
A non-conditional Green Card is valid for 10 years from the date it’s issued, during which you only need to keep it handy for travel or a bank or administrative process. As this period comes to an end, it’s time to take action and prepare your documents for renewal.
A non-conditional Green Card must be renewed within the six months before it expires. The validity of Permanent Resident Cards (also known as Green Cards) is automatically extended for 24 months for permanent residents who file a Form I-90. But as the saying goes, don’t put off until tomorrow what you can do today. The renewal process is currently taking less than two months.
In some cases, a Green Card is valid for only two years, which means it’s conditional. This is issued when a marriage to a legal citizen is less than two years old or when the application is based on a family immigration petition. If this applies to you, you must file a Form I-751 within 90 days before the expiration date to get a 10-year permanent resident card. For example, if your card expires on June 25, you need to submit your application after March 27 of that same year.
Requirements for Renewing a Green Card
The Green Card renewal process can be done by mail or online. The process is similar to the initial application — the only difference is the communication method. Here are the steps you need to follow:
- Create an account on the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) website. Even if you apply by mail, this account will help you check your approval status later.
- Complete the Form I-90 (physical or digital).
- Upload the required documents to the USCIS online platform or make a copy if you’re mailing them. Usually, you only need to submit your expiring Green Card.
- Review and sign your application, either physically or digitally.
- Pay the government fees, which we’ll discuss later.
- Submit your application online or mail it to USCIS.
USCIS will notify you of your approval by mail or through your online account. They will also send a reference number to check the status of your application while you wait for your new card. One to two weeks later, you’ll be scheduled for a biometric appointment (fingerprints, photo, and signature). You can track the rest of the process on the website.
USCIS Fees for Renewing a Green Card
If you renew your Green Card by mail, the filing fee is $465 USD. If you file online, it’s $415 USD.
This form is eligible for a fee waiver, which will only be accepted in the following cases:
- If you receive government assistance such as supplemental income or temporary assistance for needy families.
- If your household income is below 150% of federal poverty guidelines.
- If you can prove financial hardship due to medical reasons.
Need help with your Green Card paperwork? Alvva is with you every step of the way. With our Case Center, you can organize all your documents in one secure place. We’ll handle the rest, ensuring your forms are correctly filled out and backed by our Approval Guarantee. Check your eligibility today.
