To renew a US Green Card, you must submit Form I-90, Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card, along with your current Green Card as evidence of your status. Supporting documents such as a copy of your government-issued ID, proof of residence, and any updated personal information may also be required. Biometric data, including fingerprints and photographs, is typically collected during the renewal process to verify your identity.
What Documents are Required for a US Green Card Renewal?
| Number | Name | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | I-90 Receipt Notice | The I-90 Receipt Notice is a critical document confirming the USCIS has received your application to renew or replace a US Green Card, serving as proof of your pending status. Along with the I-90 form, applicants must submit essential documents such as a copy of the current Green Card, government-issued identification, and any evidence of legal name changes. |
| 2 | I-797C Notice of Action | The I-797C Notice of Action is essential for US Green Card renewal as it serves as the official receipt or evidence of application submission to USCIS, confirming the processing status of Form I-90. Including the I-797C with other documents like the current Green Card and government-issued ID ensures a complete renewal application package. |
| 3 | Biometrics Appointment Letter | The Biometrics Appointment Letter is a critical document required for a US Green Card renewal, notifying applicants of their scheduled fingerprinting and photograph session at a designated Application Support Center. This appointment is essential to verify identity and update biometric information, ensuring the renewal process complies with United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) requirements. |
| 4 | Digital Green Card (e-Green Card) | Applicants renewing their US Green Card must submit Form I-90, along with their current Green Card or digital e-Green Card information, proof of identity, and supporting documentation such as a government-issued ID or immigration records. The digital e-Green Card allows for easier submission and tracking of renewal status through the USCIS online portal, enhancing the renewal process efficiency. |
| 5 | USCIS Online Account Access Document | For US Green Card renewal, applicants must submit Form I-90 along with a valid USCIS Online Account Access Document such as a receipt number or confirmation page from the USCIS website to track and manage their application status efficiently. Providing a valid government-issued ID, current green card, and proof of residency supports the renewal process and ensures compliance with USCIS requirements. |
| 6 | Evidence of Lawful Permanent Resident Status | Evidence of lawful permanent resident status is typically demonstrated by submitting a copy of the current Green Card (Form I-551) when applying for renewal. Additional supporting documents such as government-issued identification, proof of address, and any documents showing name changes may strengthen the renewal application. |
| 7 | Conditional Green Card Waiver Documentation | For a US Green Card renewal involving a Conditional Green Card Waiver, applicants must submit Form I-751, Petition to Remove Conditions on Residence, alongside evidence proving the bona fide nature of the marriage, such as joint financial records, affidavits, and photographs. Supporting documents may also include proof of legal termination of prior marriages and USCIS receipt notices to ensure a smooth waiver process. |
| 8 | Real ID Act Compliant Documentation | For a US Green Card renewal, applicants must provide Form I-90 along with a copy of their current Permanent Resident Card and evidence compliant with the Real ID Act, such as a valid passport or state-issued identification that meets federal standards. Supporting documents like proof of residency, employment, or any legal name changes enhance the application's compliance and expedite processing. |
| 9 | Updated Civil Documents (e.g., reissued passport, marriage certificate) | Updated civil documents such as a reissued passport and a recent marriage certificate are essential for a US Green Card renewal to verify identity and marital status. These documents support the accurate processing of the renewal application and help maintain eligibility under current immigration regulations. |
| 10 | Fee Waiver Request Forms (I-912) | To request a fee waiver for a US Green Card renewal, applicants must submit Form I-912 along with their renewal application, demonstrating eligibility based on income or hardship criteria established by USCIS. Supporting documents such as proof of receiving means-tested benefits, household income, or financial hardship statements are essential to strengthen the fee waiver request during the Form I-90 green card renewal process. |
Understanding US Green Card Renewal
Understanding US Green Card renewal is essential for maintaining lawful permanent resident status. Required documents include Form I-90, your current green card, and proof of identity such as a passport or driver's license. Supporting evidence may be necessary if there are changes in your personal information or circumstances.
Key Eligibility Criteria for Renewal
To renew a US Green Card, applicants must submit the Form I-90, Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card, along with proof of their current permanent resident status. Key eligibility criteria include maintaining permanent resident status and ensuring the Green Card has not been expired for more than one year.
Supporting documents such as a copy of the expiring or expired Green Card are essential for the renewal process. Applicants must also provide valid identification and may need to submit additional evidence if personal information has changed since the original card issuance.
Essential Documents Required for Green Card Renewal
Renewing a US Green Card requires submitting several essential documents to the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Key forms include Form I-90, Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card, and the current Green Card.
Supporting identification documents such as a government-issued photo ID and proof of residency are necessary. You must also provide any court or police records if applicable to your case.
Completing Form I-90: Step-by-Step Guide
Completing Form I-90 is essential for renewing a US Green Card to ensure continuous legal residency. You must gather required documents such as your current Green Card, government-issued identification, and any supporting documents proving a change of information if applicable. Following the step-by-step instructions on Form I-90 helps avoid processing delays and ensures accurate submission to USCIS.
Photo Specifications for Green Card Renewal
What are the photo specifications for a US Green Card renewal? Your photo must be a recent color image taken within the last six months to reflect your current appearance. The image should be 2 x 2 inches, with a full-face view directly facing the camera, against a plain white or off-white background.
Supporting Evidence Checklist
Renewing a US Green Card requires submitting specific documents to verify identity, residency, and eligibility. A well-prepared supporting evidence checklist is essential to ensure the application is complete and accurate.
- Copy of Current Green Card - Provides proof of your existing permanent resident status for the renewal process.
- Government-Issued Identification - Valid passport or state ID verifies your identity and citizenship.
- Proof of Residence - Utility bills, lease agreements, or tax returns confirm continuous residence in the United States.
Filing Fees and Payment Methods
Renewing your US Green Card requires awareness of specific filing fees and acceptable payment methods to avoid processing delays. Understanding these financial requirements ensures a smooth renewal process.
- Filing Fee Amount - The standard fee for renewing a Green Card (Form I-90) is $540, which includes the biometrics service fee.
- Payment Options - Payments can be made via credit card, debit card, check, or money order when submitting the application.
- Fee Waivers - Certain applicants may qualify for a fee waiver or reduction by submitting Form I-912, Request for Fee Waiver.
Ensuring payment is made correctly and on time is essential for successful Green Card renewal.
Common Mistakes to Avoid in the Application
| Required Documents for US Green Card Renewal | Common Mistakes to Avoid in the Application |
|---|---|
| Form I-90, Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card | Submitting an incomplete or unsigned form causing delays or rejection |
| Current Green Card (Permanent Resident Card) | Failing to provide a clear copy of the existing Green Card |
| Proof of Identity (such as Passport or Driver's License) | Providing expired or invalid identification documents |
| Payment of Filing Fee (check or credit card payment) | Omitting the filing fee or submitting insufficient payment |
| Passport-style Photos (if requested) | Using photos that do not meet USCIS specifications or submitting incorrect photo numbers |
| Supporting Evidence (if there is a legal name change or other changes) | Neglecting to include updated or supporting documentation for changes in legal status |
| Any Additional USCIS Requests or Notices | Ignoring USCIS requests for additional information or missing deadlines for responses |
| Mailing address confirmation | Failing to update mailing address can result in missed correspondence |
| Proof of continuous residence (if applicable) | Not providing evidence when required in specific renewal cases |
| Avoiding multiple applications concurrently | Submitting more than one renewal application can cause confusion and delays |
Ensure Your application is accurate and complete to prevent processing delays and maintain valid permanent residency status.
Processing Times and Status Tracking
To renew a US Green Card, applicants must submit Form I-90, Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card, along with supporting documents such as a copy of the current Green Card. Proof of identity, such as a government-issued photo ID, is also necessary for processing.
Processing times for Green Card renewal typically range from 8 to 14 months, depending on the applicant's location and USCIS workload. Applicants can track the status of their renewal application online using the USCIS Case Status tool by entering their receipt number. Keeping this number handy ensures timely updates on application progress and estimated completion dates.
What Documents are Required for a US Green Card Renewal? Infographic
