How to Renew Your Green Card: A Guide by Suday Law in Houston Texas

For lawful permanent residents in the United States, a valid green card is essential. It serves as proof of your legal immigration status and grants the right to live and work in the country. Over time, however, green cards can expire, become lost, or need updates due to changes in personal information. Failing to keep your green card current can lead to complications with employment, travel, and access to important services. At Suday Law in Houston Texas, we provide knowledgeable legal support to help ensure your green card remains up to date and your rights as a permanent resident are fully protected.

Understanding When to Renew Your Green Card

A green card is generally valid for ten years. If your card is set to expire within the next six months, or if it has already expired, it is essential to begin the renewal process immediately. You should also renew your green card if it was lost, stolen, damaged, or if any of the information on it has changed such as your name or gender.

It is important not to delay the renewal. Although the expiration of a green card does not mean that your lawful permanent resident status has ended, carrying an expired card can cause issues with employment verification, international travel, and obtaining benefits that require proof of permanent residence.

Eligibility to Renew a Green Card

Most lawful permanent residents are eligible to renew their green cards. You can renew your green card if:

• You are a permanent resident with a 10-year green card that is expired or will expire within the next six months.
  
• You are a commuter (someone who lives in Canada or Mexico and works in the U.S.) and need to renew your green card.
• You need to replace your card due to damage or loss.
• Your personal information has changed, requiring an updated card.

If you are a conditional permanent resident holding a two-year green card, the process is different. You cannot renew a conditional green card but instead must file to remove the conditions during the 90-day window before your card expires. Failure to remove conditions in time can jeopardize your status. In such cases, legal guidance from an experienced immigration attorney in Houston, like those at Suday Law, can make a significant difference.

When to Begin the Green Card Renewal Process

The United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) recommends starting the renewal process about six months before your green card expires. Beginning the process early helps prevent legal complications, especially if you need to travel internationally or apply for a new job.

If your card has already expired, you should still file for renewal as soon as possible. You may be required to provide additional documentation explaining the delay.

How to File for Green Card Renewal

Step 1: Complete Form I-90

To renew your green card, you must file Form I-90, Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card. This form can be completed online through the USCIS website or submitted by mail.

You will need to provide:

• Your Alien Registration Number (A Number)
• Your current green card number and expiration date
• Information about your immigration history
• Reason for renewal or replacement
• Updated biometric information, such as fingerprints and photos

It is essential to ensure that all information on the form is accurate. Mistakes or inconsistencies may delay processing or lead to a denial.

Step 2: Pay the Filing Fee

As of the latest update, the filing fee for Form I-90 is $455, plus an $85 biometric services fee, for a total of $540. Always check the USCIS website or consult with your attorney for the most current fee schedule, as it may change.

Fee waivers may be available for certain applicants experiencing financial hardship. You will need to submit Form I-912, Request for Fee Waiver, along with supporting documentation if you wish to apply for a waiver.

Step 3: Attend Your Biometrics Appointment

After submitting Form I-90, USCIS will send you a notice with the date, time, and location of your biometrics appointment. At this appointment, your fingerprints, photo, and signature will be collected for identity verification and background checks.

Missing this appointment can delay your application significantly, so it is important to attend as scheduled. If you are unable to attend, notify USCIS immediately to reschedule.

Step 4: Track Your Application Status

Once you have submitted your green card renewal application, you can track its progress through the USCIS online portal using your receipt number. The processing time varies depending on USCIS workload and your location, but on average, it may take 6 to 12 months.

During this time, you may receive a receipt notice that automatically extends your current green card for 24 months beyond the expiration date. This extension allows you to work, travel, and maintain proof of your lawful permanent residence while your new card is being processed.

What to Do if You Need to Travel or Work While Waiting

If you need to travel internationally while your green card renewal is in process, you can do so using your expired card and the USCIS receipt notice as temporary proof of status. However, this only applies if your green card was valid at the time of filing Form I-90.

If your employer or a government agency requests proof of your status, present both the expired green card and the USCIS extension notice. If you do not receive this notice or lose it, you can request a replacement from USCIS or consult with an immigration attorney at Suday Law for assistance.

What Happens If Your Renewal Is Denied

In rare cases, USCIS may deny a green card renewal application. Common reasons include:

• Errors or omissions on Form I-90
• Ineligibility due to a change in immigration status
• Issues related to criminal history or immigration violations
• Failure to attend the biometrics appointment

If your application is denied, you will receive a notice explaining the reason. You may be able to appeal the decision or reapply, depending on the circumstances. Legal support from Suday Law can help you evaluate your options and take the next appropriate steps.

How Suday Law in Houston Texas Can Help

Renewing your green card may seem straightforward, but immigration rules can be complex. Delays, mistakes, or denials can impact your ability to live and work in the United States. At Suday Law, we offer professional and compassionate legal services to guide you through the green card renewal process efficiently.

Our experienced immigration attorneys help you:

• Prepare and review Form I-90 for accuracy and completeness
• Navigate complicated renewal scenarios, such as expired cards or name changes
• Request fee waivers, if eligible
• Respond to USCIS requests for additional evidence
• Represent you in case of denials or legal challenges
  

Located in Houston Texas, Suday Law is committed to protecting the rights of immigrants and helping individuals maintain lawful permanent residence without unnecessary stress.

Schedule Your Green Card Renewal Consultation with Suday Law Today

Do not risk delays, legal complications, or missed opportunities due to an expired or soon-to-expire green card. The renewal process can be complex, especially when there are changes to your personal information, past immigration issues, or strict travel plans involved.

At Suday Law in Houston Texas, our experienced immigration attorneys are here to ensure your green card renewal is handled accurately and on time. We guide you through each step, from preparing Form I-90 to navigating USCIS requirements and responding to potential challenges.

Take control of your immigration status and avoid unnecessary setbacks.
Contact Suday Law today to schedule a personalized consultation and let us help you complete your green card renewal with confidence.