To renew a green card, applicants must submit Form I-90 along with a copy of their current green card as proof of status. Supporting documents such as a government-issued photo ID and evidence of name changes, if applicable, are also required. Providing accurate and complete documentation ensures timely processing of the renewal application.
What Documents Are Necessary for a Green Card Renewal Application?
| Number | Name | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Form I-90 (Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card) | Form I-90, Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card, requires submission of the current green card, government-issued identification, and evidence supporting the reason for renewal or replacement, such as proof of legal status or name change documents. Additional documents like passport-style photos and filing fees must also be included to ensure a complete application for green card renewal. |
| 2 | Current/Expired Green Card (Permanent Resident Card, Form I-551) | A current or expired Green Card (Permanent Resident Card, Form I-551) is a critical document required for a green card renewal application, serving as proof of permanent resident status. Applicants must submit their existing Green Card, regardless of its expiration date, along with Form I-90 to USCIS for processing. |
| 3 | Government-Issued Photo Identification (e.g., passport, driver’s license) | Government-issued photo identification such as a valid passport or driver's license is essential for a green card renewal application to verify identity and citizenship status. These documents must be current and government-recognized to meet USCIS requirements and avoid processing delays. |
| 4 | Evidence of Name Change (if applicable, e.g., marriage certificate, court order) | Evidence of name change for a green card renewal application must include official documents such as a marriage certificate, court order, or divorce decree that legally verify the new name. Providing these certified copies ensures USCIS accurately updates personal information and avoids processing delays. |
| 5 | Documentation Supporting Biographical Changes (if any) | Documents supporting biographical changes in a green card renewal application include updated marriage certificates, divorce decrees, court orders for name changes, and official birth certificates reflecting modifications. Submitting these authenticated records ensures USCIS accurately updates personal information during the renewal process. |
| 6 | Police Reports and Court Records (if lost/stolen card) | For a green card renewal application after a lost or stolen card, police reports documenting the loss or theft and any related court records are essential to establish the circumstances and prevent fraud. These documents support the applicant's identity verification and are required by USCIS to process the replacement and renewal efficiently. |
| 7 | Form I-797 (Notice of Action, if received) | Submit a completed Form I-797 (Notice of Action) if previously received, as it serves as proof of your most recent immigration status or receipt of application. Including this document can help USCIS verify your case history and prevent processing delays during green card renewal. |
| 8 | Evidence of U.S. Residency (e.g., utility bills, lease agreements) | Evidence of U.S. residency is crucial for a green card renewal application and typically includes documents such as utility bills, lease agreements, bank statements, and tax returns that demonstrate continuous physical presence in the United States. Providing these documents helps USCIS verify the applicant's residency status and ensures compliance with renewal requirements outlined in Form I-90 instructions. |
| 9 | Two Passport-Style Photos (if required by instructions) | Two passport-style photos may be required for a green card renewal application, adhering to USCIS specifications of 2x2 inches with a plain white background and recent date within six months. Ensuring photos meet these biometric standards helps prevent delays or rejection in the renewal process. |
| 10 | Fee Payment Receipt (Form G-1450, check, or money order) | A crucial document for a green card renewal application is the fee payment receipt, which can be evidenced by Form G-1450, a personal check, or a money order made payable to the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. This fee payment document must accompany the Form I-90 to validate the submission and ensure processing of the renewal request. |
Overview of Green Card Renewal Process
The Green Card renewal process requires submitting specific documents to verify identity and residency status. Proper preparation of these documents ensures a smooth application review by USCIS.
- Form I-90 - The primary form used to apply for Green Card renewal or replacement.
- Current Green Card - A copy of the existing Green Card to prove permanent resident status.
- Supporting Identification - Valid government-issued ID such as a passport or driver's license to confirm identity.
Submitting accurate and complete documents helps avoid delays in the Green Card renewal process.
Eligibility Criteria for Green Card Renewal
What documents are necessary for a green card renewal application? You must provide your current green card as proof of identity and lawful permanent resident status. Additionally, submitting a completed Form I-90 is essential to initiate the renewal process.
What eligibility criteria must be met for green card renewal? You need to maintain your permanent resident status without abandonment or criminal issues that may affect eligibility. Proof of continuous residence in the U.S. and absence of disqualifying legal violations strengthen your application.
Important Deadlines and Timing
For a green card renewal application, it is essential to submit Form I-90 along with your current green card. Supporting documents may include a copy of the expiring green card, government-issued identification, and any evidence of name change if applicable. Timely submission is critical--file the renewal application within six months before your card's expiration to avoid gaps in your permanent resident status.
Form I-90: Application Details
Form I-90, Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card, is essential for green card renewal. This form collects personal information and details about your current green card status.
Supporting documents include a copy of the expiring or expired green card, government-issued identification, and evidence of any legal name changes. Photocopies of passports or travel documents may also be required. Accurate completion of Form I-90 with these documents streamlines the renewal process.
Required Documentation Checklist
When applying for a green card renewal, submitting the correct documents is essential to avoid delays or denials. The required documentation demonstrates the applicant's eligibility and identity verification.
The primary document is the completed Form I-90, Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card. Applicants must also provide a copy of their current green card as evidence of their status.
Proof of identity such as a government-issued photo ID or passport is necessary to confirm the applicant's identity. Two recent passport-style photos may be required if the applicant is renewing a green card that is expiring or has already expired.
Additional supporting documents may include court records if the applicant has had a name change or evidence of lawful permanent resident status. It is important to review the USCIS requirements carefully to ensure all necessary paperwork is included.
Legal Requirements for Supporting Evidence
Renewing a green card requires submitting specific documents that meet legal requirements for supporting evidence. These documents verify your identity, residency status, and continuous eligibility for permanent resident status.
- Form I-90 Receipt - Proof of filing the green card renewal application with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
- Current Green Card - The existing lawful permanent resident card to confirm your current status.
- Proof of Identity - Government-issued identification such as a passport or driver's license to validate your identity legally.
Filing Fees and Payment Methods
When applying for a Green Card renewal, the filing fee must be submitted along with Form I-90. Payment methods accepted include credit cards, checks, and money orders, ensuring flexibility for applicants. You should verify the exact fee amount on the USCIS official website before submitting your application.
Common Legal Issues and Application Mistakes
When applying for a green card renewal, it is crucial to submit accurate and complete documents to avoid delays or denials. Commonly required documents include your current green card, Form I-90, and supporting identification such as a passport or driver's license.
Legal issues often arise from submitting outdated or inconsistent information, which may trigger additional scrutiny or Requests for Evidence (RFEs). Mistakes like missing signatures, incorrect fees, or incomplete forms can result in application rejection, prolonging the renewal process.
Interview and Biometrics Appointment Process
Renewing a green card requires specific documents, especially for the interview and biometrics appointment process. Proper preparation ensures a smoother verification of your identity and eligibility.
- Appointment Notice - Bring the USCIS appointment notice for your biometrics and interview to verify the time and location.
- Current Green Card - Present your valid or expired green card as proof of your permanent resident status.
- Government-Issued Photo ID - Provide a government-issued photo identification, such as a passport or driver's license, to confirm your identity during the appointment.
What Documents Are Necessary for a Green Card Renewal Application? Infographic
