If you are one of the 13.9 million green card holders in the US, you are likely to ask this question at one point. Since a green card is only valid for ten years, you need to take measures as this date draws near. Depending on the type of card you hold (unconditional or conditional) and your plans, there are several routes to take.

If you have an unconditional green card, you can start the renewal process through Form I-90; or become a naturalized citizen and fill out Form N-400. If you have a conditional green card, obtained through marriage or business operator status, remove conditions through a Form I-750.

What Happens When Your Green Card Expires

Lawful permanent resident status can be attested by a green card (permanent resident card). You are required to have a valid card at all times. Therefore, it is important to know that green cards come with an expiration date so you can prepare in advance to avoid any unwanted complications. The current expiration period is ten years from the date it was issued.

While it is ideal to start the green card renewal process in due time, if you failed to do so before the set expiration date, this will not automatically result in the termination of your residency. Still, there can be consequences like:

• Not being able to reenter the US
• Not being able to get hired
• Not having access to professional licenses
• Not being able to purchase a home
• Not being able to renew driving license

Unconditional Green Card Renewal

When your green card expires, you have several options. The two main paths you can take are to renew your card (Form I-90) or apply for citizenship (Form N-400).

File Form I-90

This form is used for a variety of other procedures, including replacing lost or damaged cards. Make sure to access the latest version of Form I-90 and fill in all the required fields truthfully. This is some of the information that you must provide:

• Name (including any changes)
• US address
• Place and date of birth
• US social security number
• Reason for application

After you have filled out the document, make sure to double-check the information you have provided. The experts at Abogado De Inmigracion enumerate that any mistakes or inconsistencies may delay the processing time. Thereby, it is vital to cross-check the form while submitting the form online or by paper through the mail.

Apply for US Citizenship Through Form N-400

If you wish to become a US citizen through naturalization, you must fill out and submit Form N-400. Before you send in your application, make sure that the form is signed, as any forms, which are not signed will be rejected.

Just like with Form I-90, you can submit the document online or by mail. If you choose the online platform, know that this is very user-friendly. Also, you can do several other things in the same space, including paying processing fees and keeping track of your documents. If you decide to submit the form by mail, make sure to send it to the correct address, as this may differ based on your location.

Removal of Conditions for a Conditional Green Card

Those with a conditional green card will take a different path. These cards have a 2-year limitation and are obtained through business operator status or marriage. In this case, fill out and submit Form I-750, also known as Petition to Remove Conditions of Residence. For a complete list of addresses where you can send the form, visit the government page on Direct Filing Address for Form I-751.

Final Thoughts

Make sure that you are not caught off-guard by your green card expiring, and start preparing in advance. The processing time may differ considerably depending on which path you qualify for and choose; and so will the associated fees. If you require any assistance with the proceedings, do not hesitate to contact an experienced immigration services agency.

Author:

With a law degree under his belt, Mark Scott understood very early that law communication was a relatively neglected area. He decided to help people +by “translating” the language and offering information and advice in a clear, useful, and actionable manner. For this reason, instead of finding him in court, you will most likely find his name online, where he is very active and thriving as a legal columnist. His part of making the world a better place is to make the law a less convoluted maze. He aims to make it easier for people to understand when and how to seek legal counsel, how to proceed in a significant number of legal matters, and to find the proper resources so they can stand up for their rights.