An immigrant needs to submit Form I-90, Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card, along with their current green card for renewal. Supporting documents such as a copy of the current green card, government-issued identification, and proof of any legal name changes should be included. Additional evidence may be required if the card is lost, stolen, or damaged.
What Documents Does an Immigrant Need for Green Card Renewal?
| Number | Name | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | I-90 Supporting Evidence | To renew a green card, an immigrant must submit Form I-90 along with supporting evidence such as a copy of the current green card, government-issued identification, and any documents demonstrating a legal name change if applicable. Providing proof of residency and updated biometric information may also be required to ensure the renewal process aligns with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) guidelines. |
| 2 | Conditional Resident Documents | Conditional residents seeking green card renewal must submit their Form I-751, Petition to Remove Conditions on Residence, along with a copy of their conditional green card (Form I-551). Supporting documents include proof of continuous residence, evidence of the bona fide nature of the marriage (if applicable), and government-issued identification such as a passport or driver's license. |
| 3 | Biometrics Appointment Notice | The Biometrics Appointment Notice is a crucial document required for green card renewal, containing the date, time, and location for fingerprinting and photograph collection necessary for identity verification. Applicants must bring this notice along with their current green card and a government-issued photo ID to the appointment to ensure successful processing. |
| 4 | USCIS Fee Waiver Form (I-912) | Immigrants applying for green card renewal must submit Form I-90 alongside any required supporting documents, and those facing financial hardship can request a USCIS Fee Waiver by submitting Form I-912, which requires evidence of income, public benefits, or financial difficulty. The USCIS Fee Waiver Form (I-912) streamlines the application process by potentially eliminating the renewal fee, contingent upon satisfying eligibility criteria verified through documentation such as tax returns, benefit letters, or affidavits. |
| 5 | Child Derivative Adjustment | For Child Derivative Adjustment in green card renewal, immigrants must provide the child's original birth certificate, proof of the parent's lawful permanent resident status, and the approved Form I-130 petition. Supporting documents such as the child's current green card, evidence of continuous residence, and updated medical examination reports may also be required to ensure successful processing. |
| 6 | Previous Green Card Copy | A copy of the previous green card is essential for green card renewal as it serves as primary evidence of lawful permanent resident status. This document helps verify identity, residency history, and prior approval, streamlining the renewal process with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). |
| 7 | Legal Name Change Proof | Immigrants seeking green card renewal must submit legal name change documents such as a court order, marriage certificate, or divorce decree to validate their updated identity. Providing certified copies of these documents ensures compliance with USCIS requirements and facilitates smooth processing. |
| 8 | Request for Evidence (RFE) Response | An immigrant responding to a Request for Evidence (RFE) for Green Card renewal must submit documents such as a copy of the original Green Card, evidence of continuous residence, updated identification like a valid passport or driver's license, and any requested proof addressing the specific deficiencies noted by USCIS, such as employment verification or tax returns. Properly organized and timely submission of these documents is crucial to avoid delays or denial in the renewal process. |
| 9 | Identity Certification Affidavit | An Identity Certification Affidavit is a crucial document for green card renewal, serving to verify the immigrant's identity when official documents are unavailable or insufficient. This affidavit must be notarized and include detailed personal information, such as full name, date of birth, and an explanation for the inability to provide standard identity proofs. |
| 10 | Digital Document Upload Acknowledgment | Immigrants applying for Green Card renewal must upload key documents such as the current Green Card, Form I-90 confirmation, and proof of identity through USCIS's digital portal. The Digital Document Upload Acknowledgment confirms successful submission, ensuring all required evidence is securely received and linked to the application. |
Introduction to Green Card Renewal
Green card renewal is essential for maintaining lawful permanent resident status in the United States. Understanding the required documents simplifies the process and helps avoid delays.
- Form I-90 - This form is the official application used to renew or replace a green card.
- Current Green Card - You must submit a copy of your existing green card as proof of your status.
- Supporting Identification - Additional identification documents such as a passport or driver's license may be required for verification.
Gathering all necessary documentation in advance ensures a smooth and efficient green card renewal process.
Eligibility Criteria for Renewal
Immigrants seeking Green Card renewal must ensure their current Green Card is valid or expired less than one year ago. Eligibility requires maintaining permanent resident status without prolonged absences from the United States. Renewal applicants must also not be subject to specific grounds of inadmissibility or removal.
Required Documents Checklist
What documents are needed for green card renewal? The required documents checklist includes the completed Form I-90, a copy of your current green card, and proof of identity. Additional supporting documents may be necessary depending on your specific situation.
Form I-90 Application Overview
Renewing a green card requires submitting specific documents through Form I-90, the Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card. This form is essential for updating or renewing an existing green card with the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
- Form I-90 Application - Used by permanent residents to renew or replace their green card when it is expired, lost, or damaged.
- Supporting Identification Documents - Include a copy of the current green card and government-issued photo ID to verify identity.
- Proof of Residency - Documents such as utility bills, tax returns, or employment records to confirm continuous residence in the United States.
Supporting Evidence and Proofs
Immigrants applying for green card renewal must provide specific supporting documents to verify their identity and residency. Key proofs include a copy of the current green card, government-issued identification, and evidence of continuous residence in the United States.
Additional documents may include tax returns, employment records, and utility bills showing the applicant's presence and activity in the country. These supporting evidences help USCIS confirm eligibility and process the renewal efficiently.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Renewing your green card requires specific documents to ensure a smooth process. Missing or incorrect paperwork can cause significant delays or denials.
- Forgetting to Include the Current Green Card - Always submit your existing green card as proof of status when filing for renewal.
- Submitting Incomplete Form I-90 - Ensure every section of Form I-90 is filled out accurately to avoid rejection.
- Neglecting to Provide Proof of Identity - Attach valid identification documents such as a passport or driver's license to verify your identity.
Special Cases: Lost or Expired Green Cards
When renewing a green card, immigrants must typically submit Form I-90 along with a copy of their current green card. In special cases where the green card is lost or expired, proof of submission of a police report or a prior expired card copy may be required. Your renewal process may also involve additional identification documents to verify your status and identity.
Renewal Processing Times and Fees
| Document | Description |
|---|---|
| Form I-90 | Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card. Required for green card renewal. |
| Current Green Card | Must be submitted as proof of existing permanent resident status. |
| Government-issued ID | Passport, state ID, or driver's license for identity verification. |
| Proof of Residency | Documents such as utility bills or lease agreements demonstrating current U.S. residence. |
| Filing Fee | $540 (includes $455 application fee and $85 biometric services fee) as required by USCIS. |
| Renewal Processing Time | Typically ranges from 8 to 14 months depending on the USCIS service center and application volume. |
Address Updates and Biometrics
Immigrants applying for green card renewal must provide specific documents to ensure a smooth process. Key requirements include proof of address updates and biometric information.
Address updates require a recent utility bill, lease agreement, or government notice showing the applicant's current residence. Biometrics involve submitting fingerprints, photographs, and signature, usually collected at an authorized Application Support Center (ASC).
What Documents Does an Immigrant Need for Green Card Renewal? Infographic
