Green Card Renewal: Form I-90, Fees, Documents & Processing

If your Green Card has expired or will expire soon, renewing it promptly is essential to maintain valid proof of your lawful permanent resident status in the United States. Most permanent residents renew their Green Card by filing Form I-90 with USCIS. Whether you apply online or by mail, understanding the Green Card renewal process, eligibility requirements, filing fees, processing time, and required documents can help you avoid delays and keep your immigration records up to date.

This comprehensive guide breaks down everything you need to know to successfully renew or replace your green card without unnecessary stress. We have explained the process, the processing time, how much to renew green card, and the documents required for the green card renewal.

How to Renew a Green Card?

To start the process for renewing your Green card, fill out the Form I-90, officially known as the "Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card". You don't need to be confused by the name of the form-the same application is used for both Green Card replacements and renewals.

Here are the steps you can follow for the Green Card renewal application, online or by mail:

Online Process

1. Create a USCIS online account and complete Form I-90.
2. Upload the required documents, such as a copy of your expired or soon-to-expire green card.
3. Review the application and sign it digitally.
4. Pay the applicable government fees.
5. Submit your application and wait for USCIS to process your application and issue your new Green Card.

By Mail

1. Complete a paper Form I-90.
2. Make a photocopy of the required documents, such as your expired or soon-to-expire green card.
3. Review your application and sign it before mailing.
4. Include your payment for the government fees, if required.
5. Mail your application to the USCIS, and wait for your new green card.

Who Can Renew a Green Card?

You can renew your Green Card if:

• You are a lawful permanent resident.
• Your 10-year Green Card has expired or will expire within six months.
• Your card has been lost, stolen, or damaged.
• Your personal information has changed.

Cannot use Form I-90 if:

• You have a conditional Green Card.
• You need to remove conditions using Form I-751 or Form I-829.

When to Renew or Replace Green Card?

If you have a 10-year Green Card, you should apply for renewal within six months before it expires or as soon as possible if it has already expired.

You may also need to replace your Green Card if it has been lost, stolen, damaged, contains incorrect information, or if you have legally changed your name.

What if you are outside the United States?

• Your green card is expiring within 6 months, but you will come back to the US within 1 year of leaving and before your card expires: File for the green card renewal as soon as you return to the US.
• Your green card has already expired, and you did not apply for renewal before you left the United States: Contact the nearest U.S. Consulate, international USCIS field office, or U.S. port of entry and let them know about your situation before applying for renewal.

Documents Required for Green Card Renewal Application

Here is the list of documents required for the USCIS green card renewal process:

• Form I-90, Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card
• Valid Government-issued ID
• A Copy of your expired or Expiring Green card
• Proof of Legal Name Change (if applicable)
• Proof of biographic information
• Evidence of Continuous Residency (if requested)
• Criminal Records (if applicable)
• USCIS Fee Payment Receipt or Fee Waiver

What is the Green Card Renewal Processing Time?

Once the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) receives your renewal form, the Green Card renewal processing time can be approximately 1.5-12 months, depending on USCIS workload.

What if you need your Green Card Urgently?

USCIS may provide you with an "Alien Documentation, Identification & Telecommunications" (ADIT) stamp to prove your status as a green card holder if:

• You applied for naturalization at least 6 months before your green card expires, in which case there is no need to file Form I-90.
• You need to prove your lawful permanent resident status urgently, while you wait for your new green card, for example, if you are applying for a new job.

What is the Green Card Renewal Fee?

Here is the exact breakdown for your green card renewal, which depends entirely on how you choose to submit the application:

• Online Filing: $415 total 
• Paper Filing (By Mail): $465 total
• Biometric Fee: $0

Filing online saves you $50 and is processed faster by the agency. You can securely pay and submit your application on the official USCIS Form I-90 page

How to Check Green Card Renewal Status?

To track the green card renewal status, enter your receipt number on the USCIS case status online page. Go to the Check Status Page, where you can view your entire application history.

If you want USCIS to send you a text message or email notification when your form is accepted, complete the Form G-1145 and submit it along with your green card renewal application.

Common Reasons Why a Green Card Renewal Is Delayed

Although many Green Card renewal applications are processed without issues, some may take longer than expected. Delays can occur if Form I-90 is incomplete, required supporting documents are missing, USCIS requests additional evidence, or there is a high volume of pending applications. Carefully reviewing your application and submitting accurate information can help reduce the chances of unnecessary processing delays.

Conclusion

An expired green card does not strip you of your lawful permanent resident status, but it does restrict your ability to travel, secure employment, and prove your legal standing. By taking proactive steps to file Form I-90 within the recommended timeframe, you can avoid unnecessary legal and professional hurdles. While the processing timeline can take several months, the automatic 24-month extension notice provides peace of mind while you wait.

If you're unsure about your eligibility, required documents, or Form I-90 application, seeking professional guidance can help you avoid delays and filing mistakes. Visament can assist you throughout the Green Card renewal process to ensure your application is completed accurately and submitted on time.