As a lawful permanent resident, your Green Card (Form I-551) is your official identification and proof of your authorized immigration status in the U.S. While your status as a permanent resident is lifelong, the physical card itself generally expires every 10 years. 

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It's a common misconception that an expired card means losing your residency, but it does mean you'll face difficulties proving your status. Renewing your Green Card is a necessary and proactive measure to maintain valid documentation, ensuring smooth travel, employment, and access to services. ​

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Who Should Renew Their Green Card?

 

Most lawful permanent residents (Green Card holders) will need to renew their Green Card at some point. You should renew your Green Card if:

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• Your 10-Year Green Card is Expiring or Has Expired: Most Green Cards are valid for 10 years. You should file for renewal if your card has already expired or will expire within the next six months.

• Your Older Green Card Has No Expiration Date: Some very old Green Cards do not have an expiration date. While your status remains valid, these older cards are often no longer considered current proof of status. It's highly recommended to apply for a new card to avoid issues.

• Your Green Card was Lost, Stolen, or Damaged: If your physical card is no longer usable, you'll need to apply for a replacement, which uses the same form as a renewal.

• Your Name or Other Biographic Information Has Legally Changed: If you've had a legal name change or other significant biographic information has changed, you should apply for a new card reflecting this updated information.

• You Became a Permanent Resident Before Age 14: If you received your Green Card before your 14th birthday, you are required to replace it once you turn 14.

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​Important Note for Conditional Permanent Residents

 

If you have a 2-year conditional Green Card (typically issued through marriage if you were married for less than two years when you received your Green Card, or through certain investor programs), you do NOT renew it using the same process as a 10-year card. Instead, you must file a petition to remove the conditions on your residence:

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• Marriage-Based Conditional Residents: File Form I-751, Petition to Remove Conditions on Residence, typically within 90 days before your 2-year card expires. Read more about how to remove conditions here. 

• Investor-Based Conditional Residents: File Form I-829, Petition by Investor to Remove Conditions on Permanent Resident Status, within 90 days before your 2-year card expires.

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Failing to file these petitions on time can result in the loss of your permanent resident status.

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🔍  Additional Resources

 

🔗 I-90, Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card (Green Card): Click here to learn more. 

 

🔗 Case Status: Click here to check the status of your case online using your USCIS Receipt Number.

 

🕒  Processing Times: Click here to check current USCIS processing times.

 

📦 Address Changes: All non-immigrants and permanent residents are required to notify USCIS of any address change within 10 days of moving. Click here to create an account and submit your change of address online.