US Green Card Renewal Process: Complete Guide for 2025

This article was last updated and fact checked on April 29, 2025 by Mani Karthik.

When my green card expiration date was approaching, I felt overwhelmed by the renewal process. Would I need to redo my biometrics?

Could I travel during the renewal period? The official instructions seemed complicated and I worried about making mistakes that could affect my permanent resident status.

After renewing my own green card multiple times and helping dozens of family members through their renewals, I can walk you through exactly what to expect, which documents you need, and how to avoid common pitfalls in the green card renewal process.

Quick Overview: Green Card Renewal Process

Renewing a green card involves filing Form I-90, paying a $540 fee (as of 2025), attending a biometrics appointment, and waiting approximately 8 to 12 months for processing.

You should apply 6 months before your card expires, though your permanent resident status remains valid even with an expired card. Once approved, your new green card will be valid for another 10 years.

The renewal process is straightforward but requires careful attention to detail when completing forms and gathering documentation. Following all instructions precisely helps avoid unnecessary delays in receiving your new card.

When to Renew Your Green Card

Timing is important when renewing your green card:

• Ideal timing: Apply 6 months before your card’s expiration date
• Expired less than 1 year: Standard renewal process applies
• Expired more than 1 year: Still use Form I-90, but be prepared to explain the delay
• Lost or damaged card: Apply for replacement immediately regardless of expiration date

💡 Pro Tip: Set a calendar reminder 8 months before your green card expires. This gives you two months to gather documents and submit your renewal application at the 6 month mark. If USCIS experiences processing delays, this timeline ensures you’ll likely receive your new card before the current one expires.

Step by Step Green Card Renewal Process

Step 1: Prepare Form I-90

Form I-90 (Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card) is the official form for green card renewal:

• Download the latest version from the USCIS website
• Select the correct reason for filing (typically “My existing card has expired or will expire within six months”)
• Complete all sections accurately, matching information on your current green card
• Review carefully for errors or missed fields

Step 2: Gather Required Documentation

Prepare these documents to submit with your application:

Required for everyone:

• Copy of your current green card (front and back)
• Check or money order for the filing fee ($540 in 2025), or completed Form G-1450 for credit card payment
• Two recent U.S. passport-style photos (if filing by mail)

Situation-specific documents:

• If your name changed: Legal name change document (marriage certificate, divorce decree, court order)
• If your card was lost/stolen: Police report or affidavit explaining the circumstances
• If your card was damaged: Include the damaged card with your application
• If your biographic information changed: Documentation supporting the change

Step 3: Submit Your Application

You have two submission options:

Online Filing:

• Create or log in to your USCIS online account
• Complete Form I-90 electronically
• Upload supporting documents as scanned copies
• Pay the filing fee by credit card, debit card, or bank transfer
• Submit and receive an immediate confirmation receipt

Paper Filing:

• Mail your completed Form I-90 and supporting documents
• Include payment by check, money order, or credit card authorization
• Use the correct mailing address based on your location (check USCIS website)
• Send via tracked mail service and keep the tracking number

Step 4: Receive Receipt Notice

Within 2-3 weeks after submission:

• USCIS will send Form I-797C (Notice of Action)
• This confirms receipt of your application
• Contains your case number for tracking status
• Serves as proof that you’ve applied for renewal

Step 5: Attend Biometrics Appointment

About 3-5 weeks after filing:

• You’ll receive a biometrics appointment notice
• Specifies date, time, and location (usually at a local Application Support Center)
• Bring your appointment notice and government-issued photo ID
• They will take your fingerprints, photograph, and signature

Step 6: Wait for Processing and Decision

The current processing timeline:

• Check current processing times on the USCIS website
• Typically takes 8-12 months as of 2025
• Track your case status online using your receipt number
• Respond promptly to any Requests for Evidence (RFEs) if issued

Step 7: Receive Your New Green Card

If approved:

• Your new green card will arrive by mail
• Valid for another 10 years
• Verify all information is correct immediately upon receipt
• Keep your old green card until the new one arrives, then securely destroy the old one

Key Documents for Green Card Renewal

Primary Documents

• Form I-90: The official application form for green card renewal
• Current green card: Copy of front and back (or original if damaged)
• Government-issued ID: Such as driver’s license or passport
• Passport-style photos: Two recent photos meeting USCIS specifications (if filing by mail)

Supporting Documents (as applicable)

• Legal name change documents: Marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order
• Proof of status correction: Birth certificate, passport, or court documents
• Police report: If your card was stolen
• Explanatory letter: If your card expired more than a year ago

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Renewing Your Green Card

1. Waiting Until Your Green Card Expires

While your permanent resident status doesn’t expire, having an expired card creates practical problems with employment, travel, and identification. Apply 6 months before expiration.

2. Incorrect Filing Fee

Using the wrong payment amount is one of the most common reasons applications are rejected. Always check the current fee on the USCIS website before submitting.

3. Missing Information on Form I-90

Incomplete forms cause significant delays. Double-check that you’ve completed all required fields and signed the form before submission.

4. Outdated Address Information

If USCIS doesn’t have your current address, you won’t receive important notices or your new card. File Form AR-11 to update your address if you move during the process.

5. Low-Quality Supporting Documents

Blurry copies, cropped images of your green card, or photos that don’t meet specifications can lead to rejection. Ensure all documents are clear and complete.

FAQs About Green Card Renewal

Can I travel internationally while my green card renewal is pending?

Yes, you can travel with an expired green card if you have the I-797C receipt notice showing you’ve applied for renewal, but only if your card expired less than 12 months ago. For longer international trips or if your card expired more than a year ago, consider applying for a Re-entry Permit (Form I-131) or requesting an ADIT stamp (I-551 stamp) in your passport from a local USCIS office before traveling.

What if my green card expired years ago?

You can still renew an expired green card regardless of how long it’s been expired. Use the same Form I-90 process, but include a letter explaining why you delayed renewal. While there are no official penalties for late renewal, you may face practical difficulties with employment, travel, and identification while waiting for the new card.

Do I need to do anything special if I have a conditional green card?

If you have a 2-year conditional green card (through marriage or investment), you don’t renew it with Form I-90. Instead, you must file Form I-751 (for marriage-based) or Form I-829 (for investor-based) to remove the conditions. This must be done during the 90-day period before the card expires.

What happens if USCIS rejects my renewal application?

If your application is rejected (different from denied), USCIS will return your package with an explanation. Common reasons include incorrect fees, missing signatures, or using an outdated form version. You can correct the issues and resubmit immediately.

Is the process different for renewing a 10-year green card versus replacing a lost/stolen/damaged card?

The same Form I-90 is used, but you’ll select a different reason for filing. The documentation requirements differ slightly – for replacements due to loss or damage, you’ll need to explain the circumstances, while standard renewals focus on the expiration date.

Bonus Tips for Green Card Renewal Success

Keep a digital copy of everything.

Scan all forms and supporting documents before submission, and save the receipt notice electronically.

Use the case status tools effectively.

Create an account on the USCIS website and sign up for automatic case updates via email or text message.

Consider premium processing if available.

Although not typically available for Form I-90, USCIS occasionally offers expedited processing during high-volume periods.

Request an InfoPass appointment for emergencies.

If you have urgent travel or employment needs while waiting for renewal, schedule an in-person appointment at your local USCIS office for temporary proof of status.

Respond to RFEs within the deadline.

If USCIS requests additional evidence, respond completely and promptly within the specified timeframe (typically 30-90 days).

💡 Pro Tip: After receiving your biometrics appointment confirmation, print an extra copy of your I-90 receipt notice and have it laminated. Carry this with your expired green card as temporary proof of your continued permanent resident status while waiting for your new card. This can be helpful for employment verification, DMV visits, or other situations where your status might be questioned.

Key Takeaways for Green Card Renewal

• Apply for renewal 6 months before your current card expires
• Your permanent resident status remains valid even with an expired card
• Current processing time is approximately 8-12 months
• The filing fee is $540 as of 2025 (check USCIS website for updates)
• Keep your receipt notice as proof of pending renewal
• You can still work and travel with an expired card plus receipt notice
• Update your address with USCIS if you move during the renewal process
• Consider applying for citizenship instead if you’re eligible (typically after 5 years as a permanent resident)

Remember that renewing your green card is a routine process that millions of permanent residents complete successfully every year.

While the waiting period can be lengthy, careful preparation and timely submission will help ensure you maintain continuous proof of your lawful permanent resident status.

I wish you a smooth green card renewal process! With proper planning and attention to detail, you’ll have your new 10-year card in hand and can continue enjoying your life and opportunities in the United States. Safe travels! ✈️