To renew a green card, applicants must submit Form I-90, Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card, along with a copy of their current green card. Supporting documents may include a government-issued photo ID, such as a passport or driver's license, and proof of permanent resident status if the card has been lost or stolen. It's essential to provide accurate and complete information to ensure timely processing of the renewal application.
What Documents Are Required for a Green Card Renewal?
| Number | Name | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Form I-90, Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card | Form I-90, Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card, is essential for renewing or replacing a green card and must be accompanied by a copy of the current green card as proof of permanent resident status. Supporting documents such as a government-issued photo ID, evidence of any legal name changes, and payment for the filing fee are also required to complete the application process. |
| 2 | Current/Expired Green Card (Permanent Resident Card, Form I-551) | To renew a green card, applicants must submit a completed Form I-90 along with their current or expired Permanent Resident Card (Form I-551) as proof of status. Supporting documents may include a copy of the existing green card, government-issued identification, and evidence of any legal name changes. |
| 3 | Government-Issued Photo Identification (if green card lost/stolen) | For green card renewal when the original card is lost or stolen, applicants must provide government-issued photo identification such as a valid passport, state-issued driver's license, or an official identification card. These documents establish identity and support the filing of Form I-90, Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card. |
| 4 | Police Report (if applicable, for lost/stolen card) | When renewing a green card, applicants must submit a police report if the original card was lost or stolen, serving as critical evidence of the incident. This documentation helps USCIS verify the circumstances and prevent fraud during the renewal process. |
| 5 | Marriage Certificate (if name legally changed) | A marriage certificate is required for green card renewal if the applicant has legally changed their name due to marriage, serving as official proof of the name change. This document must be submitted along with the Form I-90 and other identity verification papers to ensure accurate processing. |
| 6 | Court Order for Name Change (if applicable) | A Court Order for Name Change is required when the applicant's current legal name differs from the name on their original green card or other immigration documents; this official document verifies the legal name change and must be submitted alongside Form I-90, Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card. Providing a certified copy of the court order ensures USCIS accurately updates the applicant's records and issues the renewed green card reflecting the new legal name. |
| 7 | Evidence of Biographical Information Change (if applicable) | Evidence of biographical information changes for a green card renewal includes official documents such as marriage certificates, divorce decrees, name change orders, or updated birth certificates. Submitting these documents with Form I-90 helps USCIS verify and update the applicant's personal details accurately during the renewal process. |
| 8 | Copy of Military ID or Orders (for military applicants) | Military applicants renewing a green card must submit a copy of their Military ID or official military orders as part of the required documentation to verify their service status. This proof is essential for eligibility confirmation and processing within the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) framework. |
| 9 | Supporting Documentation for Disability (if requesting disability accommodations) | Supporting documentation for disability accommodations during green card renewal includes a detailed medical report from a licensed physician outlining the nature and extent of the disability, relevant medical records, and any history of treatments or interventions. Applicants should also submit a formal request for accommodations along with proof of prior disability benefits or certifications that demonstrate the need for special accommodations during the renewal process. |
| 10 | Evidence of Continuous Residence (if requested by USCIS) | Evidence of continuous residence for a green card renewal may include tax returns, utility bills, lease agreements, and employment records demonstrating physical presence in the U.S. over the required period, as requested by USCIS. Providing timely and accurate documentation substantiates eligibility and helps prevent application delays or denials. |
| 11 | Passport-Style Photographs (if required by USCIS notification) | For green card renewal, USCIS may require submission of passport-style photographs that meet specific photo composition and size standards. These photos must be recent, typically taken within 30 days of the application, with a white background, full face visible, and no glasses or hats to comply with USCIS guidelines. |
| 12 | Filing Fee Payment Proof | Proof of filing fee payment for green card renewal requires a Form I-797C, Notice of Action, or a bank or credit card statement showing the transaction. This evidence confirms the applicant has paid the required fee to the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). |
Overview of Green Card Renewal Process
The green card renewal process is essential for maintaining your permanent resident status in the United States. It involves submitting specific documents to the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to update your card before it expires.
- Form I-90, Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card - This form is required for initiating the green card renewal process.
- Current Green Card - A photocopy of your existing green card must be provided as proof of your status.
- Supporting Identification Documents - Documents such as a government-issued ID or passport may be required to verify your identity.
Timely submission of these documents helps ensure a smooth and efficient green card renewal experience.
Eligibility Criteria for Green Card Renewal
| Eligibility Criteria for Green Card Renewal | |
|---|---|
| Permanent Resident Status | Must be a lawful permanent resident with a valid Green Card or one that is expiring within six months. |
| Green Card Validity | Green Card is typically valid for 10 years and must be renewed before expiration to maintain lawful status. |
| Residency Requirements | You must not have abandoned permanent residence by staying outside the U.S. for an extended period without proper reentry documentation. |
| Good Moral Character | No serious criminal convictions or actions that could affect your eligibility for renewal. |
| Required Documents for Green Card Renewal | |
| Form I-90 | Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card, submitted to USCIS. |
| Current Green Card | Physical copy of the existing Green Card as evidence of permanent resident status. |
| Proof of Identity | Government-issued identification such as passport or driver's license, if required. |
| Supporting Evidence | Documents demonstrating continuous residence in the U.S., including tax returns or lease agreements, if requested. |
| Filing Fee | Payment of the renewal fee as specified by USCIS. |
Essential Forms Required for Renewal
Renewing your Green Card requires submitting specific essential forms to the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Proper documentation ensures a smooth and timely renewal process.
- Form I-90 - This is the primary application form for renewing or replacing a Green Card.
- Proof of Current Green Card - A copy of your existing Green Card must be submitted as evidence of your permanent resident status.
- Supporting Identification Documents - Documentation such as a valid passport or state-issued ID may be required to verify your identity and residency.
Form I-90: Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card
The primary document required for green card renewal is Form I-90, Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card. This form initiates the official process to renew or replace a permanent resident card.
- Form I-90 Submission - Complete and submit Form I-90 online or by mail to the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
- Proof of Current Permanent Resident Status - Include a copy of the existing green card to verify status and eligibility for renewal.
- Supporting Identification Documents - Provide additional identification copies such as a passport, state ID, or driver's license to support identity verification.
Supporting Evidence: Identity Documents
When renewing your green card, providing supporting evidence of identity is crucial. Valid identity documents establish your eligibility and help verify your current status.
Acceptable identity documents include a valid passport, driver's license, or state identification card. These documents must be current and government-issued to ensure authenticity during the renewal process.
Proof of Permanent Residency Status
Proof of permanent residency status is crucial when applying for a green card renewal. You must provide your current green card as evidence of your lawful permanent resident status. Supporting documents like a valid passport, government-issued ID, or Form I-94 may also be required to verify your identity and residency.
Address Change Documentation
When renewing a green card, applicants must provide proof of any change in address since their last submission. This documentation ensures USCIS has the most current information for correspondence and eligibility verification.
Acceptable address change documents include a copy of a lease agreement, utility bills, or official government correspondence showing the new address. It is important to submit these alongside the Form I-90 for green card renewal. Failure to provide updated address documentation may delay the processing of the application.
Biometric Appointment and Required Documents
What documents are needed for a green card renewal? You must attend a biometric appointment where your fingerprints, photograph, and signature are collected. Required documents include your current green card, Form I-90 receipt notice, and government-issued photo identification.
Evidence for Special Circumstances (Lost, Stolen, or Damaged Cards)
Renewing a green card requires specific documentation to verify identity and residency status. Evidence for special circumstances, such as lost, stolen, or damaged cards, must be clearly presented.
Proof may include a police report if the card was stolen or a detailed explanation if the card was lost. Damaged cards should be submitted along with a renewal application to avoid processing delays.
What Documents Are Required for a Green Card Renewal? Infographic
