If you are a lawful permanent resident (Green Card holder) in the United States, your Green Card serves as crucial proof of your immigration status. Just like a driver’s license or passport, it has an expiration date, and it’s essential to keep it current. For those whose Green Cards are set to expire in late 2025, now is the critical time to initiate the renewal process. Procrastinating can lead to significant headaches, including unexpected travel delays and complications with employment or other benefits. This timely reminder provides a step-by-step guide to filing Form I-90, discusses current I-90 processing time USA, and highlights the risks of traveling with an expired Green Card.

Why Renew Your Green Card?

While your permanent resident status itself generally doesn’t expire, the physical Green Card does. An expired card can create numerous issues, including:

  • Proof of Status: You may struggle to prove your lawful permanent resident status to employers, government agencies, or even law enforcement.
  • Travel Complications: Attempting to re-enter the U.S. with an expired Green Card can lead to significant delays, extensive questioning, or even denial of boarding from airlines.
  • Employment Issues: Employers are required to verify your work authorization, and an expired Green Card can complicate this process.
  • Access to Benefits: Accessing certain government benefits or services may be hindered.

The Green Card Renewal Process: A Step-by-Step Guide

Renewing your permanent resident card involves filing Form I-90, Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card, with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Here’s a general step-by-step guide:

1. Determine Your Eligibility:

You should file Form I-90 if your 10-year Green Card is expired or will expire within the next six months. Important Note: If you have a 2-year conditional Green Card (typically based on marriage or investor status), you do not file Form I-90. Instead, you must file Form I-751 (to remove conditions based on marriage) or Form I-829 (to remove conditions for investors). Failing to file the correct form can lead to loss of status.

2. Complete Form I-90:

This form can be filed either online or by mail.

    • Online Filing (Recommended): USCIS encourages online filing for its efficiency. You’ll need to create a USCIS online account. This allows you to complete the form, upload supporting documents, pay fees, track your case status, and receive updates electronically.
    • Paper Filing: You can download Form I-90 from the USCIS website, fill it out manually, and mail it to the specified USCIS Lockbox facility. Ensure you follow all instructions precisely.
3. Gather Supporting Documents:

In most Green card renewal late 2025 cases, you primarily need:

    • A photocopy of the front and back of your current Green Card (expired or soon-to-expire).
    • In some instances, two passport-style photos may be requested, though often biometrics will cover this.
    • If your name has legally changed, documentation of the name change (e.g., marriage certificate, court order).
    • Proof of residency (utility bills, lease agreements, tax returns) might be requested in specific cases, though less common for a straightforward renewal.
4. Pay the Filing Fee:

As of early June 2025, the filing fee for Form I-90 is generally $415 for online filing or $465 for paper filing, plus an $85 biometrics fee. Always verify the most current fees on the USCIS website as they are subject to change. Fee waivers may be available for eligible individuals experiencing financial hardship.

5. Submit Your Application:
    • If filing online, submit through your USCIS online account.
    • If filing by mail, send your complete package (Form I-90, supporting documents, and payment) to the correct USCIS Lockbox address. Using a trackable mail service (e.g., USPS Certified Mail with Return Receipt) is highly recommended.
6. Receive Receipt Notice:

Within approximately 1-3 weeks after USCIS receives your application, you will receive a Form I-797C, Notice of Action (receipt notice). This receipt notice is critically important. For many applicants, USCIS will automatically extend the validity of your expired Green Card for a period (currently 36 months, though this can change) from the expiration date printed on your card. This receipt notice, when presented with your expired Green Card, serves as temporary proof of your lawful permanent resident status.

7. Attend Your Biometrics Appointment:

USCIS will likely schedule a biometrics (fingerprints, photo, signature) appointment for you at an Application Support Center (ASC). This typically occurs within 4-6 weeks of your application submission. Attend this appointment as scheduled, bringing your appointment notice and a valid photo ID.

8. Receive Your New Green Card:

Once your application is processed and approved, USCIS will mail your new 10-year Green Card.

Current “I-90 Processing Time USA” (as of Early June 2025):

According to recent USCIS data (as of May 2025), the median I-90 processing time USA for Green Card replacement/renewal can be as low as 0.9 months (less than a month). However, processing times can vary significantly based on the USCIS service center, caseloads, and the complexity of individual cases. While the median is low, some cases can take longer. It’s crucial to check the most current processing times on the USCIS website’s “Check Case Processing Times” tool.

The Risks of Traveling with an Expired Green Card:

Even with an I-90 receipt notice, traveling internationally with an expired Green Card can present challenges. While the receipt notice, particularly with the 36-month extension, generally serves as valid proof of status for re-entry into the U.S., it’s not universally recognized by all foreign airlines or border officials.

  • Airline Issues: Some airlines may refuse to board you if they are unfamiliar with the validity of the receipt notice combined with an expired Green Card, fearing they might incur fines if you are denied entry to the U.S.
  • Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Scrutiny: While CBP officers at U.S. ports of entry are generally aware of these extension notices, you may still face additional questioning or delays.
  • Foreign Travel: Other countries may have different requirements for entry and exit.

Recommendation for Travel: If you must travel internationally while your I-90 is pending, and especially if your Green Card is expired, ensure you carry your expired Green Card along with the most recent Form I-797C receipt notice. If you no longer have your physical Green Card or require additional proof, you might need to schedule an InfoPass appointment at a USCIS field office to obtain an Alien Documentation, Identification, and Telecommunication (ADIT) stamp in your passport as temporary evidence of your permanent resident status.

Don’t Delay: Renew Your Permanent Resident Card!

For lawful permanent residents whose Green Cards expire in late 2025, the time to act is now. Proactive filing of Form I-90 is the best way to ensure a seamless transition to a new card, avoid travel impediments, and maintain uninterrupted proof of your legal status. Don’t wait until the last minute – begin the process to renew permanent resident card today!

The experienced immigration attorneys at LForLaw specialize in Green Card renewals and can provide you with comprehensive guidance and assistance throughout the Form I-90 filing process. We can help ensure your application is accurate, complete, and submitted correctly, minimizing potential delays. Contact us today for a consultation to secure your renewed Green Card and peace of mind.

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