Green Card Renewal or Replacement

Your status does not expire if you are a permanent resident. However, your green card expires every ten years. When the expiration date is six months away, you must apply to renew it.

Additionally, children who are permanent residents must apply for a replacement green card within 30 days of reaching their 14th birthday. If the existing card will not expire prior to the child’s 16th birthday, you do not need to pay an application fee though you must pay a biometrics fee. See 8 C.F.R. § 264.5.

If your card is lost, stolen or accidentally destroyed, you must apply for a new one. Contact us if you are interested in renewing your green card and your expiration date is six months away. Additionally, reach out if your green card is lost, stolen or accidentally destroyed.

FAQS

1. What is the difference between Green Card renewal and replacement?

Renewal: If your Green Card is expiring within 6 months, you must renew it. This is for individuals whose Green Cards are still valid but approaching expiration.
Replacement: If your Green Card is lost, stolen, damaged, contains incorrect information, or has been permanently valid for more than 10 years and you need to update it, you need to replace it.

2. When should I renew or replace my Green Card?

Renewal: You should apply to renew your Green Card within 6 months of its expiration date. It is extremely pertinent that you avoid letting your card expire, as it can affect your ability to travel, work, or prove your permanent resident status.
Replacement: You should apply for a replacement if your Green Card is lost, stolen, damaged, has incorrect information, or if your card is expired for more than 10 years.

3. How long does it take to renew or replace a Green Card?

The processing time for Green Card renewal or replacement typically takes 8 to 12 months. If your application is complex, or if there are additional issues to address, it might take longer.

4. Can I travel outside the U.S. while my Green Card is being renewed or replaced?

Traveling with an expired Green Card: You can technically travel, but it is risky, as an expired card may prevent re-entry to the U.S.
If you’re renewing your Green Card, you can apply for a Travel Document for a re-entry permit while waiting for your new card.
If you have a receipt notice from USCIS for your renewal or replacement application, it may serve as proof of your lawful permanent resident status for re-entry to the U.S., but it’s best to consult an immigration attorney before traveling internationally.

5. Can I expedite my Green Card replacement or renewal process?

USCIS typically does not offer expedited processing for routine Green Card renewal or replacement requests. However, in cases of extreme hardship such as urgent travel needs, medical issues, you may request expedited processing by submitting a written request to USCIS, though approval is not guaranteed.

6. What if I never received my renewed Green Card?

If you have applied for renewal and your card has not arrived, you can check the status of your application using the receipt number on the USCIS website.
If the card was lost in the mail, you may need to file for a replacement and explain that it was not received.

7. Can I apply for a Green Card renewal if I have a criminal record?

If you have a criminal record, you can still apply for a Green Card renewal. However, certain criminal offenses may impact your eligibility to retain permanent resident status, so it’s best to consult an immigration attorney to evaluate your situation prior to applying.

8. Do I need an interview for my Green Card renewal or replacement?

Typically, an interview is not required for Green Card renewal or replacement applications. However, USCIS may schedule an interview if there are any issues or concerns with your case.

9. What if my Green Card has incorrect information?

If your Green Card contains incorrect information such as wrong name, date of birth etc., you should submit a new application to request a corrected card. You will need to provide supporting documentation proving the correct information.

US Immigration Services