Don’t wait until it’s too late to begin your green card renewal process—your green card has an expiration date! If you’re starting a new job, planning a trip, or simply trying to stay compliant, an expired green card can put everything on pause. Green cards for permanent residents are only valid for 10 years, and letting yours expire can cause unnecessary delays, fines, or complications with your legal status.
This is why we’ll break down everything you need to know about the green card renewal process—how it works, how long it takes, how much it costs, and how to renew online without complications in this guide. Whether your green card is expiring soon or already has, this post will help you take the next right step—quickly and confidently.
How to Know When You Should Start Your Green Card Renewal Process?
As a permanent resident, one of the most important things you can do is to stay ahead of your green card’s expiration date. While your immigration status doesn’t expire with the card, the physical card is your proof of status—and without it, life gets complicated quickly.
Who Needs to Renew?
You need to start the green card renewal process if:
- Your 10-year green card is set to expire within the next 6 months, or it has already expired
- Your card has been lost, stolen, or damaged beyond recognition
- Your card has inaccurate or outdated information (like a name change or wrong birth date)
- You were issued a green card before turning 14, and you’re now 14 or older
It is important to note that if you’re a conditional permanent resident with a 2-year green card, this process doesn’t apply to you. Instead, file Form I-751 or Form I-829 to remove the conditions.
When Should You Start Your Renewal Process?
The best time to start is 6 months before your card expires.
This allows for plenty of time to:
- Prepare your documents
- File Form I-90 with USCIS
- Receive your renewal notice and temporary proof of status (Form I-797)
- Avoid gaps in work authorization or travel issues
Waiting until the last minute—or worse, after it expires—can delay job opportunities, international travel, and even affect your ability to prove your identity for legal or financial matters.
Here is How to Renew Your Green Card
Renewing your green card might seem overwhelming at first, but once you know the steps, the process becomes much easier. Here is how to complete the green card renewal process smoothly and correctly.
Step 1: Gather the Required Documents
Before you begin your application, you’ll need to collect a few important items. These will help verify your identity and eligibility for renewal. This is what you need:
- Your current or expired green card
- A valid government-issued photo ID (like a passport or driver’s license)
- Legal documents supporting any changes to your personal information, such as a marriage certificate or court order (if your name has changed)
- Payment for the application and biometrics fees (usually via credit/debit card or bank account online)
Step 2: Choose Your Filing Method
You have two main options for submitting your green card renewal application: online filing or paper filing.
Option 1: Green Card Renewal Online (Recommended)
Filing for your green card renewal online through the USCIS official website is the fastest and most efficient way to renew your green card. Here’s how:
- Visit uscis.gov and log in or create a USCIS online account
- Fill out Form I-90: Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card
- Upload digital copies of your documents
- Pay the filing and biometric fees directly through the platform
- Track your application status and receive timely updates and notifications
If this helps in your decision making, it is important to know that renewing online gives you access to real-time case updates, faster communication, and less paperwork.
Option 2: Submit a Paper Application
So, if you have decided to go through the second application process, which is a paper application process, that means you prefer to file by mail, these are the steps to take:
- Download Form I-90 (PDF) from the USCIS website
- Complete all required fields, print, and sign the form
- Include photocopies of your supporting documents
- Mail everything to the correct USCIS lockbox address, as listed in the form instructions
- Pay the applicable fees via money order, personal check, or Form G-1450 (credit card payment authorization)
Be sure to double-check the address and instructions on the USCIS site—they can change based on where you live.
How Long Does a Green Card Renewal Process Take?
The average green card renewal processing time is 8 to 12 months from the date USCIS receives your Form I-90. However, your case may move faster or slower depending on several key factors.
What Affects Processing Time?
Several issues can delay your renewal, even if you file early:
- USCIS Workload and Backlog: If your local USCIS service center is handling a high volume of cases, expect longer wait times.
- Incomplete Application: Missing documents or errors on Form I-90 can lead to requests for additional evidence (RFEs), slowing down your case.
- Biometrics Scheduling Delays: If there’s a delay in setting your biometrics appointment, it can push back the entire timeline.
- Address Changes or Missed Notices: Moving without updating your USCIS profile can cause important notices to be missed, further delaying processing
You can check current timelines here: USCIS Case Processing Times
How Much Does It Cost to Renew a Green Card?
As of 2025, the green card renewal fee cost a total of
| Item | Cost |
|---|---|
| I-90 Application Fee | $455 |
| Biometrics Fee | $85 |
| Total Cost | $540 |
Fee waivers may be available for those with financial hardship. Check eligibility on the USCIS website.
What If Your Green Card Renewal Application Is Denied?
This is often rare, but if you ever find yourself in a situation where your green card renewal application can be denied. Common reasons include:
- Incomplete or inaccurate application
- Criminal convictions affecting your immigration status
- Immigration violations
Now, if you are looking forward to what can be done in such cases, here’s what you can do:
- File a motion to reopen or reconsider
- Contact an immigration question attorney for legal assistance
- Avoid reapplying without resolving the issue.
FAQs About Green Card Renewal
How Do I Apply for the Green Card Fee Waiver Online?
You can’t apply for a green card renewal fee waiver online. To request a fee waiver, you must complete Form I-912 and submit it by mail along with your Form I-90 and supporting documents. Both forms must be sent together
Do I need to renew my 2-year green card?
No. If you have a 2-year conditional green card, you must remove conditions using Form I-751 or Form I-829, not Form I-90.
Can I work with an expired green card?
Yes, if you’ve already filed for renewal and have your I-797C receipt notice, it will serve as proof of legal status.
Can I travel while my renewal is pending?
Yes, but bring your expired green card and renewal receipt notice for reentry into the U.S.
Is it mandatory to renew my green card online?
No. You can file by mail, but online renewal is faster and more secure.
Legal Tips for a Smooth Green Card Renewal Process
These practical legal tips we’re about to share will help you avoid common mistakes, protect your immigration status, and make you stay one step ahead throughout your green card renewal process. Here they are:
- Keep a copy of everything you submit
- Use certified mail or trackable delivery for paper filings
- Set a calendar reminder 6 months before your card expires
- Beware of immigration scams; USCIS never calls asking for money
- Check your case status online regularly using your USCIS account
Renewing your green card isn’t just paperwork—it’s a critical step in protecting your permanent resident status and everything that comes with it. Whether you choose to renew your green card online or through a paper application, starting early and staying informed can save you from costly delays and unnecessary stress.
Follow the steps, track your application, and don’t hesitate to seek legal help if needed. A smooth green card renewal process keeps your status secure and your future in motion.
If you still have questions about your green card renewal process or need personalized legal support, Immigration Question connects you with experienced immigration attorneys. Many offer free consultations and can guide you through the renewal process, help you avoid common mistakes, and ensure your permanent resident status stays protected.
![Top 5 Immigration Questions People Asked Online This Week [May 30, 2025]](https://blog.immigrationquestion.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/top-5-immigration-questions-people-asked-online-this-week-may-30-2025-768x419.webp)
