Green Card Renewal with USCIS Form I-90 2026 – Complete Guide

By Shanza Thomas

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Green Card Renewal with USCIS Form I-90

If your 10-year permanent resident card is expired or will expire within the next 6 months, it’s time to renew it. You remain a lawful permanent resident (LPR) even if your card expires, but you must have a valid card to prove your status for employment, travel, or legal identification.

Steps to Renew Green Card:

  • Complete Form I-90
    • Online via your USCIS account
    • Or by paper if applying by mail
  • Prepare Required Documents
    • Copy of your current or expired green card
    • Other documents depending on the reason (lost, stolen, etc.)
  • Pay the Fees (if required)
    • $455 application fee + $85 biometrics = $540 total
    • Fee waivers available if eligible (see below)
  • Submit Application
    • Online submission or mail to USCIS (if paper-based)

Renewal Timeline:

After USCIS receives your application:

  • 1–2 weeks: Biometrics appointment notice (fingerprints/photo)
  • 1.5 to 12 months: Total processing time (varies by case)
  • If filed after Sept: Validity of your green card is automatically extended 24 months with your receipt notice

Need GC Sooner:

If you need to prove your status urgently (e.g., for work or travel), you can request an ADIT (I-551) stamp via a USCIS field office appointment. Call the USCIS Contact Center to request one.

Steps to Pay Renewal Fees:

  • Online: Use a credit card through Pay.gov after submitting Form I-90
  • By Mail: Personal check, money order, or credit card (via Form G-1450)
  • Make checks payable to: U.S. Department of Homeland Security

When to Renew:

  • If your card expires within 6 months, apply immediately
  • Don’t apply too early; USCIS may deny early applications

If you’re outside the U.S:

  • File upon return if your card is expiring soon
  • If already expired while abroad, contact the U.S. consulate or port of entry

Needed Documents:

  • Most applicants: Copy of green card (front and back)
  • If replacing lost/damaged card: Add police report or affidavit
  • If requesting a fee waiver: Include Form I-912 and financial proof

Status Checking:

  • Use your 13-digit receipt number on the USCIS Case Status Tool
  • You’ll receive text/email updates if you submit Form G-1145 with your application

Denied Applications:

Denials are rare, but possible due to:

  • Criminal history or tax issues
  • Errors on the application

You can:

  • File a motion to reopen/reconsider with new evidence
  • Consult an immigration attorney via AILA or DOJ-recognized nonprofit

COVID-19 Protocols for Biometrics:

  • Don’t attend if sick, recently exposed, or returning from abroad
  • Masks may still be required
  • Arrive no more than 15 minutes early

Summary Table:

ItemDetails
FormI-90
Fee$540 total (may be waived)
Renewal IntervalEvery 10 years
Processing Time1.5 to 12 months
Status CheckUSCIS Case Status
Expiring Abroad?Contact consulate or POE before applying

Boundless:

For step-by-step guidance, consider using Boundless to complete your green card renewal with lawyer-reviewed assistance.

Boundless is not a law firm, but we work with immigration attorneys to ensure your application is accurate and timely.

  1. Can I travel or work while waiting for my new green card?

    Yes, with limitations. If needed, you can request an ADIT stamp (I-551 stamp) from USCIS to temporarily prove your status for work or travel.

  2. How long does it take to renew a green card?

    Processing usually takes 1.5 to 12 months, depending on your case and USCIS workload. You will receive a 24-month extension notice with your receipt letter after applying.

  3. Who needs to file Form I-90?

    Any lawful permanent resident (green card holder) whose 10-year green card is expired or will expire within 6 months should file Form I-90. It is also used to replace a lost, stolen, or damaged card.

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