Permanent residence status, often referred to as "having a green card", is not a definitive condition. Like a driver's license, the permanent residence status must also be renewed periodically. Renewal normally takes place every 10 years. Read this article to learn how to renew your green card if you are a US resident immigrant and your 10 year deadline is approaching.
Steps
Part 1 of 2: The Documentation
Step 1. Begin the renewal process six months before your green card expires
It is difficult to determine the timing of the renewal process. Sometimes the process is delayed and lasts for months and months. this does not happen frequently, but it is always best to take precautions.
You may also need to renew your green card in case of loss or theft (if you have suffered the theft of your green card, contact the emergency number), in case of damage or change of your data. You must renew your card even if you are 14 years old or have reached "commuter" status (between the United States and other countries)
Step 2. Complete the USCIS I-90 template
This template is available on the United States Citizenship and Immigration services website. Alternatively, you can submit the paper form. USCIS requires that the form be completed in all its parts. The renewal request will not be processed until this is done.
- The I-90 form can be submitted either electronically (paying the commission at the time of the transaction) or through the US Postal Service. If you would like to receive the form by post, you can apply by calling 1-800-870-3676.
- You may or may not be qualified to apply online. check the website for more information.
Step 3. Submit your renewal payment
Currently, the renewal fee is $ 450.00 and is subject to change. It includes the $ 85 fee for biometrics - a high-sounding term that describes the process of taking your fingerprints, taking a photograph, and capturing your digital signature. The payment must be made online at the time of the request or it must be included in the envelope containing the completed form. Credit cards accepted are American Express, Mastercard, Visa, and Discover.
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If you wish to submit your request in paper form, please send the completed form and payment to the following address:
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USCIS
Attention: I-90
1820 Skyharbor, Circle S Floor 1
Phoenix, AZ 85034
- Pay with a personal or cashier's check, or with a US dollar wire transfer from a US bank to the U. S. Department of Homeland Security. Do not use initials DHS or USDHS or USCIS on checks. Do not send cash or international travelers checks.
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- Once payment is received, a receipt will be sent to you. This receipt will show the address where you will need to send the necessary documents. Additionally, if biometric services are required, you will be notified of the time and day of your appointment.
Part 2 of 2: Once the Request is Sent
Step 1. Wait for notification of receipt from USCIS
It may come in the form of an email (if you have made the request online) or in the form of a letter. File it along with your documents as proof that you have started the procedure.
USCIS will send you Form I-797C, or Notice of Action. This is the notification you will need to use as proof that your request has been submitted. Again, this is the notification that reports information about your next appointment
Step 2. Go to your biometrics appointment
Bring the appointment letter with you along with any form of identification including a photograph. During this appointment your fingerprints will be taken and the photograph will be taken for the green card. There is nothing to worry about unless you have a new criminal record.
If you need to have proof of documentation during the USCIS review of your status, please report it at your appointment. A stamp will be placed on your passport certifying that you have applied for the new card. This will allow you to leave the United States and re-enter
Step 3. Review the list sent by the US Immigration Service and collect all documentation
Again, wait for the notification of your next appointments from the United States Immigration Service. Otherwise, the next step is to receive your card.
You may be called up for an in-person interview at a regional office. The likelihood of having to take this interview is equal to that of no longer having to show up for an appointment and receive your new green card in the mail
Advice
- Check all the documentation at least twice to avoid problems and interruptions of the procedure.
- If your goal is to become a US citizen, consider applying for citizenship rather than applying for a new green card. Once you become a citizen, it will no longer be necessary to renew it. Once the citizenship application has been submitted, the USCIS allows you to have an expired green card.
- If you need to change your address, you can do it online.
Warnings
- There is a possibility that you will have to start the whole process all over again if you let the green card expire. This also means having to pay all relevant fees.
- The procedure is different for conditional residents who have a green card valid for two years. You must remove the conditional status within 90 days of the card's expiration date. This process can also be done online.
