How to Renew Your U.S. Green Card: A Complete Guide for 2025
If you're a lawful permanent resident (LPR) of the United States and your Green Card is expiring within the next 6 months — or has already expired — it's time to begin the renewal process. Keeping your Green Card up to date is essential for proving your lawful status, returning from international travel, and maintaining employment eligibility.
This guide covers the full Green Card renewal process for 2025.
⚠ Always double-check instructions and fees on the official website, as immigration procedures may change without notice (Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card (Green Card) | USCIS).
Who Needs to Renew a Green Card?
You should renew your Green Card if:
Your 10-year Green Card is expired or will expire within the next 6 months
It was lost, stolen, or damaged
It contains incorrect information (e.g., name or date of birth)
You never received your original card
You’ve legally changed your name or other personal details
Conditional Permanent Residents (those with 2-year Green Cards through marriage or investment) should not file Form I-90. Instead, they must remove conditions using Form I-751 or Form I-829.
Step-by-Step Green Card Renewal Process
1. File Form I-90
Use Form I-90, Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card.
File online via a USCIS account or by mail.
For mailing, follow the instructions on the I-90 Filing Addresses page.
2. Pay the Fee
As of May 2025:
$455 – Application fee
$85 – Biometrics services fee
Total: $540 (Always check the current fee on the USCIS website before submitting).
Check the USCIS fee schedule before submitting, as fees may change.
Fee waivers are available for eligible applicants. File Form I-912 to request one.
3. Attend Your Biometrics Appointment
After applying, you’ll receive a Form I-797C, Notice of Action, with your appointment details.
You must:
Visit a USCIS Application Support Center (ASC)
Bring the notice and a valid government-issued photo ID
4. Wait for Processing
Normal processing time: 6 to 12 months
Track your case on the USCIS Case Status portal
✅ Your Form I-797C may serve as temporary proof of residency (valid 12–24 months depending on issue date).
5. Receive Your New Green Card
If approved, USCIS will mail your Green Card to your current address. Keep your mailing address updated using the Change of Address tool.
Can You Travel While Your Green Card Is Being Renewed?
Yes, but you must carry both:
Your expired Green Card
Your Form I-797C, Notice of Action
✈This combination is typically accepted by airlines and U.S. Customs & Border Protection (CBP). Check with carriers before traveling internationally.
Can You Work During Renewal?
Yes. Employers should accept:
Your expired Green Card, and
Your Form I-797C
This meets federal I-9 employment verification requirements.
Reference: USCIS Handbook for Employers (Form M-274) Handbook for Employers M-274 | USCIS
What If Your Application Is Denied?
You can reapply with corrected information
You may also file a motion to reopen or reconsider (details here)
Contact your attorney (s)
✅ Quick Checklist for Green Card Renewal
✔File Form I-90
✔Pay required fees
✔Attend your biometrics appointment
✔Carry I-797C + expired card for travel/work
✔Track your case on the USCIS website
✔Keep your address up to date with USCIS
Final Reminder
U.S. immigration rules are subject to change. Make sure to verify all details on the official USCIS Green Card renewal page, and seek legal advice from a licensed immigration attorney if you have a unique or complex case, Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card (Green Card) | USCIS
