A green card or permanent resident card is your proof of identification and verification of eligibility to live and work in the United States as a permanent resident. Some green cards have no expiration date, but the majority have a 10-year validity period. If you have been given conditional permanent residence status, the card is valid for two years. It’s critical to keep your green card up-to-date. If your green card expires, your status as a lawful permanent resident remains unchanged, but this could affect other aspects of your life.
When should I renew my green card?
If your current green card has expired or will expire within the next six months, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) recommends filing for a new one. You can read more about other times you should renew or replace your green card HERE.
What happens if I don’t renew my green card?
Because a valid green card is necessary to prove that you are allowed to work in the U.S.,
expired cards will affect the job application process and possibly even the status of your current job. An expired card could also affect your ability to reenter the United States and your ability to register for or receive public benefits.
How do I renew my green card?
You can renew your green card entirely online. First, you will need to sign in or create an account with USCIS. Click HERE to get started in English or HERE to get started in Spanish. This page also has step-by-step instructions on how to create an account.
After you have logged in or created an account, visit this LINK for English or this LINK for Spanish and click the blue button that says “file online” to get started. You will need to fill out Form-I90, present the evidence and pay the fees electronically. Fees usually total $540, but if you receive public benefits, your family income is below 150% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines, or you have some other financial difficulty, you may be eligible for a fee waiver.
Here is more information about replacing your green card in English and in Spanish.
If you have additional questions, go to uscis.gov or call customer service at 1-800-375-5283.
For general government services information, go to usa.gov or call 1-800-333-4636.
To reach the U.S. Department of State, go to state.gov or call 1-202-647-6575.
Can I still apply for citizenship if my greencard is expired or about to be expired?
If your green card is expired or about to expire, you may still be able to apply for citizenship if you meet all of the eligibility requirements, but this is not a guarantee.
