When renewing green card, you need to follow a few basic steps. A green card, or Permanent Resident Card, is good for ten years from the date issued by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services Department. Renew this card within six months prior to the expiration date to allow for adequate processing time.
When renewing your green card, you will need to use Form I-551. You can also use this form to replace a lost or stolen card, or a card that is severely damaged.
The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is a branch of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. Because this is a direct branch of the U.S. Government, many mandates require certain documentation and proof for applications filed by individuals. Only legal copies of forms are accepted. You can obtain these by calling the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services Department at 1-800-870-3676. You can also download and print these forms directly from their website.
To apply for a green card renewal, you need to fill out Form I-90.
If you obtained your green card through an investment in a United States-based business, fill out the Form I-829 instead.
You will need to submit the Form I-751 if you were granted green card status through marriage.
To complete the forms, you need to supply all required information. If there is no appropriate response, write "None" in the blank. All forms should be completed with black ink only and require a signature.
Supply invalid information or putting wrong answers on your application could result in harsh punishment by the U.S. Government. It is a felony crime to commit green card fraud and can result in deportation. In addition, you will also be permanently banned from entering U.S. soil.
You must submit a copy of your current or expired green card with your application. Proof will be required if you do not have your green card. The acceptable forms of proof include passport, birth certificate/records, and driver's license.
You also need to submit proof if there has been a name change or correction in biographic data.
Submit two fees: a $290.00 application fee and a biometrics fee of $80.00.
Mail all documentation and completed forms with fees to: USCIS, P.O. Box 21262, Phoenix, Arizona 85036. Express Mail and Courier deliveries should be sent to: USCIS, Attn: I-90, 1820 Skyharbor, Circle S Floor 1, Phoenix, Arizona, 85034. You can also submit all documentation and fees online.
Initially, the USCIS office will process your application to ensure they have all information they need. Once accepted, you may still receive a request for more information. The office may also want you to schedule an interview.
After all information and evidence is submitted, they will make a decision. If they approved your application, they will issue and send you a permanent resident card. You will receive an explanation letter if they deny your request.
Closely following the above listed steps will ensure for a smooth process when renewing green card.
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