The permanent resident card is generally known as a green card, but it is a proof that its owner is a resident with legal permanent resident status and has permission to live and work in the United States. Needless to say, it is a very important identification. Updating the green card is an integral part of a permanent resident. If your card expires, you will not hand over the permanent resident. You continue to be a permanent resident. However, it is impossible to travel abroad, get a job, or renew your driver's license without a valid Permanent Resident Card. Therefore, it is imperative that all residents with permanent residence know how to update the green card.
Step 1: Preparation for green card renewal
You can apply to renew your permanent resident card within 6 months by the time it expires. The current processing time for green card renewal is about 5 to 6 months. The US Citizenship and Immigration Agency (USCIS) recommends updating the green card as soon as possible. (However, USCIS warns that if you submit it more than six months before the expiration date, you will reject the application).
To renew the green card, please use Form I-90, Permanent Resident Card Exchange Application Form. Instructions on Form I-90 and page 13 can be downloaded from the USCIS website. Read the instructions carefully and prepare the I - 90 properly. USCIS refuses incomplete or inappropriately prepared applications. These mistakes can cause long-term immigration problems.
Most people do not need lawyers to update green cards. However, if you are arrested, if you spend a large amount of time outside the country (over 180 days at a time), if there are other immigration law violations, please consult with an immigration attorney.
Tip: You can also use the I-90 instead of lost / stolen, corrupted, never received, or containing incorrect information.
Step 2: Collect documents and mail with I-90
For most applicants, there is little auxiliary material necessary for submitting the I-90 style. Most people just submit a USCIS application fee (currently $ 540) and a copy of the permanent resident card. However, it is necessary for some applicants to submit additional documents.
It is not necessary to send your passport photo. USCIS abolished this requirement several years ago. When participating in biometric booking, USCIS will take a picture of a new green card (step 4).
Please make a green card renewal application form and a copy of the endorsement. Why can you wait to submit the application at the local USCIS office? Your local office forwards the application to the central processing center. Skip the local office and mail the application directly:
USCIS
PO Box 21262
Phoenix, AZ 85036
Tip: Mail the I-90 application form by certified mail and save the receipt.
Step 3: Save the record
Within two to three weeks, USCIS will send Declaration I-797C. Save this important document. Evidence of the receipt and submission of a green card renewal application. Letters are not approval. We just prove that we started the process.
The receipt letter also contains the receipt number that you can use to keep track of the progress of your case. To track the progress of the case, please see the case status check function on the USCIS website.
Tip: If you submit an optional form G - 1145 at the same time as Form I - 90, USCIS will make an e - mail or text notification when you receive Form I - 90.
Step 4: Join your biometric appointment
Approximately three to five weeks after applying for a green card renewal, USCIS will mail a reservation notice for biometric review. Appointment of biometrics includes taking fingerprints and taking pictures for new green cards. Biometrics information is also used for background checking of FBI crime.
Take your appointment letter, your existing permanent resident card, and other information listed in the appointment notice. Please read the letter carefully. It describes all the items you should bring in the schedule. This appointment can be rescheduled but the update process will be delayed.
Hint: If your Green Card has expired and you need proof of permanent residence please make another reservation with USCIS. They can offer you an extension of the expiration card. (USCIS can not normally offer this service with your biometric booking.)
Step 5: Receive a new permanent resident card
As long as there is no mistake or other complications in applying for a green card renewal, most people will receive a new card in about 5 to 6 months. However, the processing time has changed based on the workload and the USCIS service center assigned your case. Your new green card looks somewhat different and will be updated with some new security features.
Tip: Processing time varies. Enter the receipt number (from I-797) in My Case Status in USCIS.gov to check the status of the green card update.
Avoid Renewal - Become a US Citizen
Please apply for US citizenship and skip the green card renewal procedure. You do not need to update the card again. There are many advantages to becoming a US citizen. It may be easier than you think.
Do you know that the 35-year-old permanent resident has an average life expectancy of $ 5,313? It does not take into account the increase in the astronomically rising fee over the past few years. The cost of submitting I - 90 in 2003 was only 130 dollars, but now it is $ 540 (including biometrics).
US citizens have the following advantages.
- You will not pay another USCIS fee
- US passport freedom and protection
- Guarantee that you will never lose permanent residency
EmoticonEmoticon