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What to do if your green card has expired

On Behalf of | May 14, 2021 | immigration |

Residents of Los Angeles and other parts of California may want to learn more about how to renew a green card that has expired. The card is good for 10 years, but it needs to be renewed, ideally before it expires. An expired card does not mean that you are no longer a U.S. resident by law unless you commit a crime; it means that you need a new version of the card.

Steps to take

There are four steps involved in getting a new card. It is wise to do them before your card’s expiration:

  • Complete an application online or mail it in.
  • Gather together your supporting documents.
  • Pay fees if required.
  • Submit application and wait for new card.

Online

You will first have to establish an account with USCIS. Complete form I-90. Upload a copy of your expired or soon-to-expire green card. Sign the application and pay the fees if required, and then submit it. Now, you just have to wait for your new card.

By mail

Complete the paper form I-90. Next, make a photocopy of required evidence, such as your present or expired green card and other relevant documents. Look over the application and sign. If there is a required fee, include the payment. Mail the completed application to USCIS and wait.

Processing time

You can expect to wait up to 12 months for your card to arrive. Find the most current processing time on the USCIS website. Within two weeks of applying, you may receive notice of a biometrics appointment for fingerprints, signature, photo, etc.

In order to stay up to date with immigration and naturalization laws, it’s important to submit a timely application for renewal of your green card. If you need help with immigration issues, it may be wise to consult an experienced attorney in this field.