US Green Card: How to Renew or Replace Your Permanent Resident Card

Maintaining a valid Green Card is essential for proving your lawful permanent resident status in the United States. This card not only serves as your identification but also confirms your eligibility to live and work in the country.

What Is a Green Card?
A Green Card, officially known as a Permanent Resident Card (Form I-551), is issued to individuals who have been granted lawful permanent resident status in the U.S. Most Green Cards are valid for 10 years, while conditional residents receive cards valid for 2 years.

When to Renew Your Green Card
You should apply to renew your Green Card if:

• Your current card has expired or will expire within the next 6 months
• Your card is 10 years old
• You have an older card with no expiration date (these are now generally considered invalid)

Use Form I-90 (Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card) to apply for renewal.

Note: If you are a conditional permanent resident with a 2-year Green Card, do not use Form I-90 to renew. Instead, you must file a petition to remove the conditions before your card expires.

Conditional Permanent Residents: Removing Conditions
If you received a 2-year conditional Green Card, you must file to remove those conditions within 90 days before the card expires:

• If your status is based on marriage, file Form I-751 (Petition to Remove Conditions on Residence)
• If your status is based on investment, file Form I-829 (Petition by Entrepreneur to Remove Conditions)

If approved, you will be issued a new Green Card valid for 10 years. Failing to file in time could lead to the loss of your permanent resident status.

When to Replace Your Green Card
You should apply to replace your Green Card if:

• Your card is lost, stolen, or damaged
• Your personal information has changed (e.g., name, gender)
• You became a permanent resident before age 14 and have now turned 14 (unless your card expires before you turn 16)
• Your card contains incorrect information
• You have an older version without an expiration date

To replace your Green Card, use Form I-90, just as you would for renewal.

Important Reminders

• You cannot travel internationally or prove your eligibility to work if your Green Card is expired or invalid
• USCIS processing times can vary, so apply early—especially if your card is close to expiring
• Keep your address updated with USCIS to avoid missing any important notices or documents

Keeping your Green Card current is not just about compliance—it's key to protecting your rights and status as a U.S. permanent resident. If you're unsure which form or process applies to you, consider consulting an immigration attorney or a USCIS representative.

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