How to Renew a Green Card

Your status as a permanent resident does not expire when your card does, but you need a valid card to prove your status for work, travel and many everyday transactions.

When to file

• Expiring 10-year card: file Form I-90 within six months before the expiration date, or after it has expired (USCIS).
• Lost, stolen or damaged card: file I-90 anytime.
• Name change or incorrect information: file I-90 with supporting documents.
• Turning 14: permanent residents who got their card before age 14 must replace it after turning 14, with exceptions if the card expires before age 16.

Conditional (2-year) cards

If your card is valid for two years, do not file I-90. File Form I-751 (marriage-based) or Form I-829 (investors) to remove conditions during the 90 days before expiration.

Fees

Under the current fee schedule, I-90 costs $415 online or $465 on paper, including biometrics (USCIS G-1055). Fee waivers are available in some cases for paper filings. Check the current fee before filing.

How to file

1. Create a USCIS online account and file I-90 online, or mail the paper form to the address listed on the USCIS page.
2. Upload or attach a copy of your current card (front and back) and any supporting documents.
3. Pay the fee.
4. Attend biometrics if scheduled; USCIS may reuse prior biometrics.
5. Track your case online.

The 36-month extension

USCIS extended the validity of green cards for people who file I-90 to renew: the I-90 receipt notice, presented with the expired card, serves as evidence of status for 36 months past the card's expiration date (USCIS, effective September 10, 2024). Keep the receipt notice with your card when traveling or starting a job.

Travel while renewing

You can generally travel with your expired card plus the receipt notice. If you will be abroad when the card expires, discuss options before leaving. Long trips abroad can raise questions about abandonment of residence. See can border agents search your phone.

Consider citizenship instead

Many renewing permanent residents are already eligible to naturalize. Becoming a citizen ends the need to renew. See how to apply for US citizenship.

When to talk to a lawyer

If you have any arrests or convictions, long periods abroad, or past immigration problems, talk to an immigration lawyer before filing, because the renewal triggers a background check.

Sources

1. USCIS: Form I-90, Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card
2. USCIS: USCIS extends green card validity extension to 36 months for green card renewals
3. USCIS: Form G-1055, Fee schedule