How to Renew Your Expired Green Card (2025)

Has your Green Card expired a long time ago or is it about to expire? While your permanent residency status never expires, as long as you meet the residency requirement, a valid Green Card is essential to prove your legal status in the United States and ensure your rights as a permanent resident. Renewing your Green Card on time not only prevents legal problems but also guarantees continuous access to vital benefits such as renewing your driver’s license, traveling without complications when returning to the U.S., or proving your authorization to work to a new employer. In this guide, Alvva explains step by step how to renew your expired Green Card, what documents you need, and how to avoid common mistakes in the process. Keep reading to learn more.

What Happens if Your Green Card Expired 10 Years Ago or More

Impacts of an Expired Green Card

While your permanent resident status does not expire, an expired Green Card can cause the following problems:

Employment: Companies in the United States are required to verify employees’ legal work eligibility through Form I-9. An expired Green Card may be rejected as valid proof, which could result in the loss of job opportunities.

International Travel: If you try to re-enter the United States with an expired Green Card, you could face significant delays at Customs or even risk being denied entry until your legal status is confirmed. Immigration officers may question your continuous residency in the country, especially if you’ve been abroad for extended periods.

Legal or Administrative Processes: Renewing other essential documents, such as driver’s licenses in certain states, may also depend on having a valid Green Card. This can affect your daily life and limit your administrative rights.

While these issues may seem complicated, renewing your Green Card is a clear and accessible process that we’ll explain below.

Step-by-Step Guide to Renew Your Expired Green Card

1. Complete Form I-90

Form I-90, “Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card,” is the main form you need to submit. You can complete it online through the official USCIS website (www.uscis.gov) or send it by mail.

Access the form: Visit the “Forms” section of the USCIS website and select Form I-90.
Create an online account: If you decide to file online, you’ll need to create a secure account on the USCIS portal. From there, you can complete, save, and submit the form.
Follow detailed instructions: Fill out each field carefully, ensuring accurate and up-to-date information. Mistakes like misspelled names or incomplete data could delay the process.

Make sure to have your current Green Card details and personal information ready. Review the information carefully before submitting it.

2. Gather the Necessary Documents

You’ll need:

A copy of your current Green Card: Include clear copies of both the front and back of the card.
Additional identification: Such as your driver’s license, passport, or birth certificate, to confirm your identity.
Proof of payment for the renewal fee: This is a mandatory requirement when submitting your application.

Important Note: If your Green Card was stolen, lost, or destroyed, you may need to provide additional documents, such as a police report or an affidavit, to justify the renewal.

3. Pay the Renewal Fee

You can pay the $540 fee (including the $85 biometrics fee) via:

Electronic payment: Credit or debit card.
Personal check or money order: Made payable to “U.S. Department of Homeland Security” if mailing your application.

Always verify the amount and accepted payment methods with USCIS.

4. Attend Your Biometrics Appointment

Once your application is processed, you will receive a notice to attend a USCIS service center. During this appointment:

Your fingerprints will be taken.
A current photo will be captured.
You’ll need to sign to confirm the accuracy of your information.

Bring the appointment notice, a valid ID, and any additional requested documents. Arrive on time to avoid rescheduling.

5. Wait for Approval

Processing times can vary but generally range from 6 to 12 months. During this period:

Regularly check your online portal for updates.
Keep Form I-797 (application receipt) as temporary proof of your legal status.

What to Do if You Need to Travel or Work While Waiting for Your New Green Card

If you’re waiting for your Green Card renewal but need to travel outside the U.S. or prove your work eligibility, you can take the following steps:

Request a Temporary Stamp in Your Passport

This stamp, known as I-551 (Temporary Evidence of Lawful Permanent Resident Status), is issued by USCIS and serves as proof of your legal permanent resident status. It’s beneficial if:

You plan to leave the U.S. and need to re-enter without issues.
Your employer requires updated documentation to verify your work authorization.

How to Obtain the Temporary Stamp:

Schedule an appointment at a local USCIS office: Call USCIS customer service at 1-800-375-5283 to schedule an appointment through the InfoPass system. Explain the urgency of your case, especially if you have imminent travel plans or work needs.

Required documents for the appointment:

A valid passport.
Form I-90 receipt notice (Form I-797).
Additional documents supporting the urgency, such as travel tickets, employer letters, or proof of medical or family needs.

During the appointment, a USCIS officer will review your request, and if everything is in order, they will place the temporary stamp in your passport. This stamp is typically valid for 6 to 12 months, so use it only within this period.

Renewing your expired Green Card is essential to maintaining your legal status and rights as a permanent resident in the United States. By following this guide, you can complete the process efficiently and without complications. Remember, acting early is key to avoiding issues.Need Professional Help? This process can seem complicated, but you don’t have to go through it alone. At Alvva, we’re here to listen, resolve your questions, and guide you every step of the way. Schedule a free consultation with our team, and together we’ll find the best solution for your case.