How to Renew Your US Green Card: A Complete Guide

If your green card is close to expiring (or already expired), you might be feeling nervous. Many people don’t realize their green card has an end date until it’s almost too late. The Visa Library understands how it feels to want answers and not waste time. So, let us guide you through the US green card renewal​ process.

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Green Card renewal requirements

Before you start your US green card renewal​ process, you need to gather the right documents. Here’s what you need to prove who you are and why you’re allowed to stay in the US:

Note: Keep copies of everything for your US visa process. That way, if anything goes missing, you have proof.

How to Renew a Green Card in the US?

If you want to do your US green card renewal​ by mail, here’s what you need to do:

1. You should renew your card about 6 months before it expires. You can still renew if it’s already expired, but try not to wait.
2. Get the form called Form I-90. You can print it from the official immigration website or ask someone to help you find it.
3. Fill the form out carefully. Write your name, address, and your A-number (a number that starts with “A”). Pick the reason you’re renewing your card (for example, “My card has expired.”)
4. Make copies of your documents, including a copy of your green card. If your name changed, include a paper that shows the new name. If your card was stolen, explain what happened.
5. Pay the fee of $540. This covers the form and your fingerprint appointment.
6. Mail your application. Remember to include the completed Form I-90, a copy of your green card, the payment, and any other documents in one envelope. You can use a mailing service that gives you tracking, so you know it got there.
7. After a few weeks, you’ll get a letter in the mail. Keep this receipt. It shows that USCIS got your form. It also gives you a number to check your case.
8. You’ll get another letter with a date and time for your fingerprint appointment. Go to the office listed and bring a photo ID. They’ll take your fingerprints and photo.
9. Wait for your new card for about 8 to 12 months. During this time, don’t lose your receipt notice. If someone asks to see your green card and yours is expired, your receipt shows you’ve renewed it.

Can You Renew Your US Green Card Online?

Yes, you can. If you’re comfortable using a computer, this might be easier for you. The main US green card renewal​ steps are still the same. You still need to fill out Form I-90, pay the fee, and go to your fingerprint appointment.

Here’s what’s different with the online way:

• You’ll need an email address and a strong password. This account is where you’ll send your form and talk to immigration.
• Fill out Form I-90 online. In this way, the system tells you if you made a mistake before you send it.
• You can take pictures or scan your green card and other papers and upload your documents online. Make sure everything is clear and easy to read.
• Pay the fee online using a credit card, debit card, or your bank account.
• You’ll get messages and updates in your account. You can also see when something changes in your case.

Can You Renew Your Green Card from Outside the US?

Yes, but it’s harder. Most people should be in the US when they apply because they’ll need to go to a fingerprint appointment. Here’s how the US green card renewal​ steps are different:

• You may need to explain why you’re outside the US.
• You might have to ask the US embassy or consulate for help.
• You must return to the US for the fingerprint appointment.

When to Replace Your Green Card?

Go through the US green card renewal​ process if:

• It’s expired or about to expire.
• You lost it, or someone stole it.
• It’s damaged or too worn out to read.
• It has the wrong info on it.
• You legally changed your name.
• You never got your green card after approval.

Versions of Green Cards That Are No Longer Valid

Some green cards are too old to be used today. You must get a new one if yours:

• Has no expiration date
• Says “I-151” instead of “I-551”
• Is faded or broken

US Green Card Renewal Cost

Here are the costs of the US green card renewal​ process:

How to Pay Your Green Card Renewal Fee(s)?

How Long to Renew a US Green Card?

What to Do If You Need Your New Green Card Sooner?

If you really need your US green card renewal​ process to go faster, you can ask for a temporary stamp. It goes in your passport and proves you are a permanent resident. To get it, call USCIS and make an appointment at a nearby office.

What Disqualifies You From Renewing a Green Card?

You may not be allowed to go through the US green card renewal​ if:

• You were ordered to leave the US.
• You lied on your application.
• You’ve been convicted of a serious crime.
• You left the US for too long and broke your residency.
• You gave up your green card.

How to Check Your Green Card Renewal Status?

After you apply, you’ll get a letter with a receipt number. Go to the immigration website and type in that number to check your case. It will show if your form was received, if they need anything, or if your card is on the way. If you applied online, just log into your account to see updates.

What to Do if Your Renewal Application Is Denied?

If your US green card renewal​ application gets denied, don’t panic. First, read the letter they send you. It will tell you why they said no. Sometimes, you can ask them to look at your case again. In other cases, it’s better to just fix the problem and send in a new application. If you’re not sure what to do, it’s okay to ask a lawyer for help. A denial doesn’t always mean the end. There’s often still a way forward.

Common Mistakes During the Green Card Renewal Process

Even small mistakes in your US green card renewal​ application can cause big delays, so try to avoid these errors:

• Using an old form
• Sending the wrong fee
• Forgetting to sign your form
• Not giving enough proof
• Moving without updating your address
• Ignoring requests from USCIS

How Many Times Can You Renew Your 10-Year Green Card?

There’s no limit. You can go through the US green card renewal as many times as you need to. If you’ve had a green card for many years, you may want to think about applying for US citizenship. That way, you won’t need to renew your card again.

The US Green Card Renewal​ Process: Let’s Recap

Renewing your green card might sound stressful is just a matter of following the steps. Fortunately, you can send in the form by mail or online. The key is to start early, gather your documents, and do things carefully. If something doesn’t make sense, ask for help.