If you need to renew your green card, there are certain mistakes you will want to avoid making so that you don’t experience any delays. Although the green card renewal process is quite straightforward, there are some areas that can be tricky. Understanding how this process works beforehand can help you avoid making mistakes so that you are able to renew your green card as quickly as possible. Keep reading to find out how to avoid delays during the green card renewal process and what to do if your green card is lost or stolen.
When to File Form I-90 for Green Card Renewal
The number one thing to be aware of when it comes to the green card renewal process is that you need to file form I-90 within the right time frame. One of the most common mistakes applicants make is waiting too long, which can create form I-90 delays.
The earliest you can file form I-90 is six months before the expiration date for your current green card. You can locate the expiration date on the bottom right corner of your card.
The standard wait time as of right now for having a green card renewed is 9.5 months. Because of this, the USCIS has an automatic extension of green card validity for anyone who has file form I-90, which allows you to continue to work and travel while you are waiting for your new card.
However, keep in mind that your green card is simply a piece of documentation as evidence of your legal status in the United States. So, if your green card expires, this is not automatically put your legal status at risk as long as you start the renewal process as soon as you can.
That being said, the USCIS requires you to carry a valid green card with you at all times if you are over the age of 18. So, although your legal status may still be present, you could possibly face prosecution for a misdemeanor if you aren’t carrying a valid green card. Also, you never want to travel outside of the United States with an expired green card, as this will often result in you not being able to re-enter the U.S.
Common Mistakes That Cause Delays
Even though renewing an expired green card is quite simple, there is still the possibility of running into significant delays. To avoid this, it can be helpful to be aware of common mistakes people make when renewing their green card so that you know what to avoid.
Not Renewing on Time
The main problem green card holders run into is not renewing their green card on time. The USCIS strongly recommends that green card holders begin the renewal process six months before their expiration date. This provides plenty of time to complete all of the renewal steps, including going through biometrics, having your case reviewed, and receiving your green card in the mail.
To make this process as straightforward and quick as possible, the USCIS recommends filing form I-90 online.
Providing Incomplete Documentation
When you file form I-90 to begin the renewal process, there are several types of documentation you need to provide, including:
- A recent digital photo
- A valid government-issued photo ID
- Payment method
You may also need to provide supporting documents, depending on your situation. For example, you may need to provide updated biometric information, a change of address, or a marriage certificate if your name has changed after marriage.
The clearer your documentation is, the easier it will be for the USCIS to review your information and issue an updated green card.
Missing Renewal Steps
There are several steps you will need to follow when you are renewing your green card. For example, you need to fill out form I-90, provide additional documentation, pay the filing fee, and attend the biometrics appointment. Failure to complete even one of these steps can result in a lengthy delay.
You should also stay up-to-date on how your renewal is proceeding, in case the USCIS sends you a request for evidence if it needs more documentation.
An immigration attorney will be able to help you track your case as well as navigate any potential issues that come up, such as requests for additional evidence.
How to Handle a Lost or Stolen Green Card
Because you have to keep your green card with you at all times, it is possible that it may be lost or stolen. If this happens, there are certain steps you need to take, such as:
- File a police report if your card is stolen.
- File form I-90 with supporting documents.
- Pay the green card renewal fee.
Also, if you have lost your green card, it is a good idea to write a statement explaining how this happened. You can then provide this to the USCIS with your supporting documents as an explanation of what happened.
If you urgently need proof of your legal status in the U.S., you can request an I-551 stamp by booking an InfoPass appointment at a local USCIS field office. An I-551 stamp is valid up to 12 months and will provide temporary proof of your lawful status while you wait for a green card.
Hire an Immigration Attorney Today
Do you want to avoid green card renewal delays? Contact us today at U.S. Immigration Law Counsel at 800-666-4996 to speak with an immigration attorney about your situation. We will deal with the government, so you don’t have to!
