What is a Green Card?
Your green card is a Permanent Residence Card (also USCIS Form I-551), showing that you have lawful permanent resident status (LPR). This gives you the right to live and work in the United States. It is also proof of your registration, according to immigration laws. If you had received a valid green card for ten years, and your green card is either expired or will expire in the next 6 months, you should renew your card. What Form Must I File?
Lawful permanent residents whose green cards have expired or will expire in the next 6 months should renew their green cards by filing USCIS Form I-90. You may also request to change your name on your new card when you file your renewal application (if it has been legally changed). You can download the form here or you can call the Forms Request Line at 1-800-870-3676 to request one. You can also request a form and file a form online. How Do I Apply?
Once you obtain the form, make sure to read it carefully and include any documentation and photographs that are necessary. When you have gathered all this information, file the application in person at your local Application Support Center (ASC) (though some ASCs are not able to accept Form I-90). If you want to make certain where you should go, visit the home page of the local office or call the National Customer Service Center (1-800-375-5283). When you file your application, you will be given temporary evidence of your LPR status. If approved, a new green card will be mailed to you. This card will expire in ten years. Do I Need an Experienced Immigration Law Attorney?
If you need any advice, your local District Office may be able to provide you with the names and contact information of organizations that can help you. Also, a lawyer would be able to help you determine your proper course of action when renewing your green card. |
