To renew a green card, you must submit Form I-90, Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card, along with a copy of your current green card. Supporting documents may include a government-issued photo ID, proof of residence, and any documents reflecting legal name changes if applicable. Providing accurate and complete documentation ensures a smooth renewal process with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
What Documents Are Needed for Green Card Renewal?
| Number | Name | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Form I-90 (Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card) | Form I-90, the Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card, requires submission of a copy of the current green card, proof of identity such as a passport or state-issued ID, and evidence supporting the need for renewal, including loss, damage, or expiration of the card. Additional supporting documents may include court records or military service papers if applicable, ensuring USCIS can verify eligibility for the green card renewal process. |
| 2 | Expired or soon-to-expire Green Card (Permanent Resident Card, Form I-551) | To renew an expired or soon-to-expire Green Card (Permanent Resident Card, Form I-551), submit Form I-90, along with a copy of the expired or expiring card as proof of permanent resident status. Include supporting documents such as identity verification, filing fees, and two passport-style photos if applicable, to comply with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) renewal requirements. |
| 3 | Government-issued photo identification (passport, driver’s license) | Government-issued photo identification such as a valid passport or driver's license is essential for green card renewal as it verifies the applicant's identity and supports the application process. Submitting clear and current copies of these documents ensures compliance with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) requirements for green card eligibility verification. |
| 4 | Marriage certificate (if name has changed) | A marriage certificate is essential for green card renewal if you have changed your name due to marriage, serving as official proof of the name change. Submit a certified copy of the marriage certificate along with your renewal application to ensure accurate record updates with USCIS. |
| 5 | Court order (for legal name change, if applicable) | Submitting a court order demonstrating a legal name change is essential when renewing a green card to ensure that USCIS records reflect the applicant's current legal identity. This document must be an official certified copy issued by the appropriate court, verifying the name change as part of the green card renewal process. |
| 6 | Police reports or official evidence (if Green Card was lost or stolen) | When renewing a Green Card after it has been lost or stolen, applicants must submit official police reports or credible evidence documenting the incident to verify the loss. These documents are crucial for USCIS to validate the claim and process Form I-90 for card replacement efficiently. |
| 7 | Form G-28 (Notice of Entry of Appearance as Attorney or Accredited Representative, if using legal representation) | Form G-28, Notice of Entry of Appearance as Attorney or Accredited Representative, must be submitted when renewing a green card if legal representation is used, officially authorizing an attorney or accredited representative to act on the applicant's behalf. Including Form G-28 ensures proper communication between USCIS and the legal representative, streamlining the renewal process and safeguarding applicant rights. |
| 8 | Payment receipt or check/money order for filing fee | A payment receipt or a check/money order for the filing fee is essential when submitting Form I-90 for green card renewal. This proof of payment confirms that the required fee has been paid to the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) as part of the renewal process. |
| 9 | Evidence of military or public service (if requesting fee waiver, Form I-912) | Applicants seeking green card renewal must submit evidence of military or public service when applicable, such as official military records or documentation verifying public service roles; those requesting a fee waiver need to include Form I-912, Request for Fee Waiver, along with supporting financial hardship evidence. Providing comprehensive and accurate documentation ensures timely processing and eligibility verification during the renewal application. |
| 10 | Supporting documents for reasons stated in Form I-90 (as applicable) | Supporting documents for green card renewal depend on the specific reasons stated in Form I-90, such as a lost, stolen, or damaged card requiring a police report, or legal name changes necessitating official name change certificates. Applicants must also provide evidence of any changes in status or personal information, including marriage certificates, divorce decrees, or court orders to ensure USCIS can process the renewal accurately. |
Overview of Green Card Renewal Process
Renewing a green card requires submitting specific documents to prove your ongoing eligibility as a permanent resident. This process ensures you maintain legal status and access to benefits in the United States.
The primary document you need is the Form I-90, Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card. Supporting documents may include a copy of your current green card, government-issued identification, and evidence of any legal name changes. Accurate and complete documentation speeds up processing and reduces the risk of delays.
Key Legal Requirements for Green Card Renewal
Renewing a green card requires adhering to specific legal documentation to ensure the application is processed correctly. Key legal requirements focus on identity verification, residency proof, and compliance with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) regulations.
- Valid Form I-90 Application - Submit Form I-90, Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card, accurately filled and signed.
- Current Green Card - Provide a copy of the existing green card as evidence of permanent resident status.
- Supporting Identification Documents - Include government-issued identification and proof of continuous residency in the United States.
Essential Documentation for Form I-90 Submission
Renewing a green card requires submitting Form I-90 along with specific supporting documents. Proper documentation ensures smooth processing and timely approval of your renewal application.
- Current Green Card - A copy of your existing green card is necessary to prove your current lawful permanent resident status.
- Proof of Identity - A government-issued photo ID, such as a passport or driver's license, verifies your identity.
- Supporting Evidence for Changes - Documents reflecting name changes, such as a marriage certificate or court order, must be included if applicable.
Providing accurate and complete documentation with Form I-90 helps avoid delays and ensures compliance with USCIS requirements.
Proof of Identity and Immigration Status
What documents are needed to prove identity and immigration status for green card renewal? You must submit a copy of your current green card to confirm your immigration status. A government-issued photo ID, such as a passport or driver's license, is required to verify your identity.
Supporting Evidence for Name and Biographical Changes
Supporting evidence for name and biographical changes is crucial when renewing a green card to ensure accurate personal information on the new card. Proper documentation helps USCIS verify your identity and maintain accurate records.
- Legal Name Change Documents - Submit court orders, marriage certificates, or divorce decrees that officially recognize your name change.
- Biographical Change Proof - Provide updated passport pages, birth certificates, or government-issued IDs reflecting changes in gender, birthdate, or other personal details.
- Affidavits or Declarations - Include sworn statements or affidavits if other primary evidence is unavailable to confirm identity or biographical changes.
Requirements for Conditional Vs. Permanent Green Cards
To renew a permanent green card, applicants must submit Form I-90, proof of current green card, and valid identification documents. Conditional green card holders need to file Form I-751 or Form I-829 to remove conditions and provide evidence of their continuing eligibility. Both processes require supporting documentation such as marriage certificates or business records depending on the basis of the green card.
Common Mistakes in Green Card Renewal Documentation
Renewing a green card requires specific documentation, including a completed Form I-90, a copy of the current green card, and proof of identity. Failure to include these essential documents often results in application delays or denials.
Common mistakes include submitting outdated or incorrect forms, missing signatures, and providing unclear or illegible copies of identification. Ensuring all documents are accurate and complete is crucial for a smooth green card renewal process.
Submission Guidelines: Paper vs. Online Filing
| Documents Needed for Green Card Renewal | |
|---|---|
| Form I-90 | Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card, required for all green card renewals. |
| Current Green Card | Copy of the front and back of the existing Permanent Resident Card (Form I-551). |
| Government-Issued Photo ID | Driver's license, passport, or state ID to confirm identity. |
| Supporting Evidence | Additional documents such as marriage certificate or court orders if name change occurred. |
| Submission Guidelines: Paper vs. Online Filing | |
| Paper Filing |
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| Online Filing |
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Legal Implications of Incomplete or False Documentation
Green card renewal requires submitting Form I-90 along with a copy of the current green card and proof of any legal name changes. Failure to provide complete or accurate documentation can lead to application delays, denials, or investigations for fraud. Submitting false documents may result in severe legal consequences including fines, criminal charges, or loss of permanent resident status.
What Documents Are Needed for Green Card Renewal? Infographic
