A 10-year Green Card (permanent resident card) expires every decade. Unlike conditional cards, renewal is straightforward but still requires careful attention.

Letting your card expire does not mean you lose residency status, but it creates practical problems: you cannot work (employers need valid, unexpired documents) and you cannot re-enter the U.S. after international travel.

This guide covers exactly when and how to renew.

When Should You Renew? Timing Is Critical

USCIS recommends filing Form I-90 six months before your card expires. However, you can file up to one year before expiration.

Filing too early (more than one year before) may result in rejection.

  • If your card already expired: File immediately. You remain a lawful permanent resident, but carry expired proof. Bring your expired card plus your I-90 receipt notice when traveling.
  • If your card will expire within 6 months: File now. Avoid last-minute rushes.
  • If your card expired more than 5 years ago: You may need to file Form I-90 but also provide additional evidence that you never abandoned residence (tax returns, lease agreements, employment records).
Important: An expired Green Card does NOT affect your underlying permanent resident status. You are still legally allowed to live and work in the U.S., but proving that status to employers or airlines becomes difficult.

Required Documents for 10-Year Green Card Renewal

Gather these items before starting Form I-90:

  • Copy of expiring Green Card (front and back): Even if expired, include it.
  • Valid passport (biographic page).
  • Two identical passport-style photos (2x2 inches, white background, taken within 30 days). Write your A-Number lightly on the back of each.
  • Form I-90 filing fee: $465 (includes biometrics). Check current fee on USCIS.gov — prices change every 12–18 months.
  • Evidence of name change (if applicable): Marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order.

Step-by-Step Renewal Process

Step 1: Choose filing method. Online (recommended) via my.uscis.gov or paper mail to USCIS Lockbox.

Online filing provides instant confirmation and faster processing.

Step 2: Complete Form I-90. Select Part 2, Reason for Application: 'Renewal of my permanent resident card' (Code A).

Double-check your A-Number, name as it appears on current card, and mailing address.

Step 3: Pay the fee. Use credit card, debit card, or bank account (ACH) for online filing.

For paper filing, include a check or money order payable to 'U.S. Department of Homeland Security'.

Step 4: Biometrics appointment. USCIS will mail a notice with date, time, and location.

Bring your appointment letter and photo ID. They capture fresh fingerprints and a new photo for the renewed card.

Step 5: Wait for processing. Current processing times: 6–10 months for standard renewal.

Check case status online using your receipt number.

Step 6: Receive your new 10-year Green Card. USCIS mails it to the address on file.

If you move during processing, file Form AR-11 (Change of Address) immediately.

What If You Need Proof While Waiting?

If your card expires before you receive the renewal, request an ADIT stamp (temporary I-551).

  • Call USCIS Contact Center (1-800-375-5283) and say 'Infopass appointment'.
  • Attend the appointment at your local field office with your expired card and I-90 receipt.
  • The officer stamps your passport (or provides Form I-94 with ADIT sticker). This serves as temporary proof for 6–12 months.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Filing I-90 when you should file I-751: If you have a 2-year conditional card, do NOT use I-90. Use Form I-751 to remove conditions first.
  • Letting your card expire for more than 6 months before filing: May trigger additional scrutiny about whether you abandoned residence.
  • Using outdated fee amounts: Always check USCIS.gov — fees increase frequently.
Pro tip: Set a calendar reminder 8 months before your 10-year card expires. Renewal is simple but slow. Don't wait until you need the card for international travel.

After renewal, destroy your old expired card. Keep the new card safe.

Remember that renewal does not change your residency status or count toward naturalization eligibility (continuous residence requirement continues uninterrupted).