Green Card Renewal: Complete Guide to Form I-90 (2026)

Your U.S. green card (Form I-551, Permanent Resident Card) is valid for 10 years. When it approaches expiration, you must renew it using Form I-90, Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card. The card itself expires — your permanent resident status does not.

When to Renew Your Green Card

You should renew your green card (Form I-90) when your 10-year green card will expire within 6 months, your card has already expired, your card was issued before your 14th birthday and you are now 14 or older, your card has been damaged, lost, or stolen, your card contains incorrect information, or you legally changed your name. File as early as 6 months before expiration to avoid lapses — an expired card does not mean you lost your status, but it creates practical problems.

How to File Form I-90 Online

The fastest way to renew is online through your USCIS account at my.uscis.gov. Create an account, select "File a Form Online," choose Form I-90, and follow the prompts. You will need to upload a recent passport-style photo, provide your current green card information (A-number, card number, expiration date), answer biographical and eligibility questions, and pay the filing fee electronically. Online filing is faster because USCIS processes online applications before paper submissions at most service centers.

Filing Fee

The current I-90 filing fee is $540. There is no separate biometric fee — it is included in the filing fee. Fee waivers (Form I-912) are available for applicants who demonstrate inability to pay based on income at or below 150% of the federal poverty guidelines, receipt of a means-tested government benefit, or financial hardship. If filing by mail, pay by check or money order payable to "U.S. Department of Homeland Security."

Processing Times in 2026

USCIS processing times for I-90 currently range from 5-14 months depending on the service center. After filing, you will receive a receipt notice (I-797C) that extends your evidence of permanent residence for 24 months from your card's expiration date. This extension is noted on the receipt and is accepted by employers for I-9 verification and by airlines for boarding.

You will be scheduled for a biometrics (fingerprint) appointment at your local Application Support Center (ASC), typically within 3-6 weeks of filing. After biometrics, wait for card production and mailing.

What If Your Green Card Already Expired?

An expired green card does not mean you have lost your permanent resident status. You remain a lawful permanent resident. However, an expired card creates serious practical problems including inability to prove work authorization for I-9 employment verification, difficulty re-entering the U.S. after international travel (though you cannot legally be denied entry as a permanent resident, the process becomes much harder), inability to prove status for government services, licenses, and benefits, and difficulty boarding international flights back to the United States.

File your I-90 as soon as possible. While waiting, carry your expired card and I-797C receipt notice together as proof of status.

Conditional vs 10-Year Green Cards

If you have a conditional green card (2-year card issued through marriage to a U.S. citizen when married less than 2 years at the time of admission), you do NOT file I-90. Instead, you file Form I-751 (Petition to Remove Conditions on Residence) within the 90-day window before your 2-year card expires. See our conditional green card I-751 guide.

If you have a standard 10-year green card obtained through employment, family sponsorship (when married 2+ years), or the DV lottery, you file I-90 for renewal.

Lost, Stolen, or Damaged Cards

If your green card is lost, stolen, or damaged, file I-90 for a replacement. For lost or stolen cards, also file a police report and keep a copy for your records. If you are abroad and your card is lost or stolen, contact the nearest U.S. consulate or embassy — they can issue a transportation letter or boarding foil to allow you to return to the United States.

Travel with an Expired Green Card

Traveling internationally with an expired green card is not recommended but is legally permissible — you are a permanent resident regardless of your card's status. Airlines may refuse boarding without a valid card or receipt notice showing the extension. CBP at the port of entry can verify your status electronically. To be safe, carry your expired card, I-797C receipt notice, a copy of your I-90 filing confirmation, and a valid passport.

If you plan to travel frequently, consider filing for a reentry permit (Form I-131) if your trips will exceed 1 year, or ensuring your I-90 is filed well before travel.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does a renewed green card last? A renewed green card is valid for 10 years from the date of issuance.

Can I renew by mail? Yes. Download Form I-90 from uscis.gov, complete it, and mail it to the appropriate USCIS lockbox with your filing fee and supporting documents. However, online filing is recommended for faster processing.

Do I need to attend an interview? Most I-90 renewals do not require an interview. USCIS may schedule one if there are questions about your eligibility or identity.

Can I renew if I have a criminal record? A criminal record does not automatically prevent renewal, but certain convictions may affect your eligibility to remain a permanent resident. Consult an attorney before filing if you have any criminal history.

Last verified: April 2026 · Reviewed by USImmigrationLaw.Today editorial team.