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How to Renew Your Green Card - Steps, Fees, Timeframes, and Updates

All green card holders are required to renew their status every ten years. This may be a standard practice, but it still takes time to finish. Make haste but not too much so that your green card doesn’t expire while you’re still in the process.

Possession of a green card is evidence of legal status for living and working in the United States permanently. Consequences may result from forgetting to renew it on time. Start the renewal process six months before your current green card expires to avoid any delays.

How Come a Valid Green Card Is Always Required?

Permanent residents of the United States who are 18 or older are required by law to carry their permanent resident card at all times. It is a misdemeanor punishable by fine or criminal charges if you are caught without your green card. In order to avoid having to pay this fine, it is crucial that your green card remains in good standing.

Qualifications for Green Card Renewal

Be sure you qualify to participate before you start the process. Green card renewal is often granted if and only if the following conditions are met:

  • You only have six months left on your existing green card.
  • If your current green card has been misplaced, stolen, or damaged, you must apply for a replacement.
  • If you have recently changed your name, address, or other details that appear on your current green card, you should apply for a new one.
  • The green card that USCIS was supposed to mail you was lost in the mail (USCIS)

In most cases, renewing your card is just a formality. However, if you have been convicted of a deportable offence, you may be unable to renew your green card.