how to apply for renewal of greencard without attorney

by Arnoldo Bruen 4 min read

Officially known as Form I-90, Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card, the green card renewal form can be prepared by most permanent residents without extensive help from an attorney. If you have a straight forward case, you can do it yourself.

How to apply for a green card renewal
  1. Create a USCIS online account.
  2. Complete Form I-90.
  3. Upload required evidence, such as a copy of your expired or soon-to-expire green card.
  4. Review and digitally sign your application.
  5. Pay the government fees (if required).
  6. Submit your application, and wait for your new green card.

Full Answer

Do I need an attorney to apply for a green card?

May 10, 2021 · How to Renew Your Expired Green Card From Outside the U.S. If you’re outside the United States when your green card expires, you or your attorney will need to get in touch with the nearest U.S. consulate or go to the nearest U.S. port of entry. You must let them know that your green card is expired but you wish to return to the United States.

Can I renew my green card if I already have one?

If you have ever been arrested or convicted of a crime or believe that you may have somehow violated the conditions of your lawful permanent resident status and need to replace or renew your Greencard DO NOT do so without first speaking with a qualified immigration attorney. If prior crimes or actions were in violation of your lawful permanent resident status then filing form I …

What is the green card application process?

7031 Koll Center Pkwy, Pleasanton, CA 94566. master:2022-03-14_10-28-20. If you are interested in obtaining a green card in order to live, work, and stay in the United States for more than just a temporary time period, then you probably know that the rules and procedures are complicated. U.S. immigration law is full of exceptions and ...

How can I get my green card in the mail?

Renewing a green card is generally a 4-step process (we’ll discuss each step in more detail below): How to renew your green card. Complete a renewal application either online or by mail. Gather your supporting documents. Pay the government fees, if required. Submit your application, and wait for your new green card.

Can I renew my own green card?

To apply to renew or replace your card, use Form I-90, Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card. Filing instructions and forms are available on our Web site at www.uscis.gov.

What documents do I need to submit to renew my green card?

Standard renewal: To renew your Green Card, provide a copy of your current permanent resident card. Replacement: To replace your Green Card because it was stolen, lost, mutilated, or destroyed, provide a copy of your current Green Card, passport, driver's license, military identification, or other government-issued ID.Jun 11, 2021

How much does it cost to renew a green card in 2021?

$540How much does it cost to renew a green card? In 2021, the green card renewal fee for Form I-90 is $540 total. Planning to file an immigration application?

Do I need an affidavit of support to renew my green card?

As a general rule, every green card application should include an affidavit of support prepared by a petitioning sponsor.May 7, 2019

What happens if my green card expires while waiting for renewal?

If your green card expires, or is about to expire, while you're waiting for citizenship, you don't need to worry. The USCIS has created Form I-90 specifically for the purpose of replacing an expired green card.Jan 18, 2022

Where do I send my green card renewal application?

Where must I file Form I-90? You must mail your paper Form I-90, Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card, including any initial evidence and supporting documentation, to the designated lockbox facility in Phoenix, Arizona. The Phoenix Lockbox address is: USCIS, P.O. Box 21262, Phoenix, AZ 85036.Apr 28, 2009

How do I replace my green card for free?

If your green card has been lost in the mail, you will need to apply for a replacement card using Form I-90. Depending on the circumstances, USCIS may replace it for free. If you've been following your case online, you can check the status and see when USCIS mailed the card by using the USCIS case status feature.Dec 1, 2020

Can a green card renewal be denied?

Green card renewal applications can be accepted, rejected, approved, and denied. Your green card renewal could be denied if you are no longer eligible for permanent residence or make mistakes in filing paperwork. This could have serious consequences, including deportation.Jul 25, 2021

What happens if you don't renew your green card?

There are no penalties or fines for an expired green card. When a green card expires, you continue to be a lawful permanent resident. USCIS will not impose an additional fee or penalty. You will pay the same green card renewal fee.Mar 18, 2021

How do I renew my Permanent Resident Card online?

How to apply for a green card renewalCreate a USCIS online account.Complete Form I-90.Upload required evidence, such as a copy of your expired or soon-to-expire green card.Review and digitally sign your application.Pay the government fees (if required).Submit your application, and wait for your new green card.

How much income do I need for affidavit of support?

You must show that your household income is equal to or higher than 125% of the U.S. poverty level for your household size. (Your household size includes you, your dependents, any relatives living with you, and the immigrants you are sponsoring.)Mar 19, 2021

What documents do I need for affidavit of support?

Affidavit of Support ChecklistSponsor's Federal income tax records.Most recent year's income tax return.Copy of Form 1099 (if applicable)Joint asset values (if applicable)Certificate of citizenship (for naturalized U.S. citizens)Copy of green card (for permanent residents)Form I-864A (for some sponsors)More items...

How to replace a green card?

You’re required to replace your green card if: 1 It’s expired or will expire in the next six months 2 It was lost, stolen, mutilated or destroyed 3 You have been a commuter and are now taking up actual residence in the U.S. 4 You have been a permanent resident who was residing in the U.S. but are now taking up commuter status 5 Your status has automatically been converted to permanent resident 6 You have an old version of an alien registration card that needs to be replaced with a current green card 7 Your card has incorrect information on it 8 You have changed any of the biographic information on the card since the last time you were issued a card (such as your name)

How long is a green card valid?

Your green card is valid for 10 years, but if you lose it, you may need to replace it before renewal. You’ll fill out the same form (Form I-90). You’re required to replace your green card if: It’s expired or will expire in the next six months. It was lost, stolen, mutilated or destroyed.

What does it mean when your green card expires?

An expired green card simply means you need new dates that prove you’re legally able to live and work anywhere in the U.S., and that you’re allowed to re-enter the U.S. after you travel abroad.

Need Professional Help? Talk to a Probate Attorney

Please answer a few questions to help us match you with attorneys in your area.

What Is So Difficult About Applying for a Green Card?

The U.S. immigration system is widely regarded as "broken." The law itself is torturously difficult to understand. It takes lawyers years just to become comfortable with the ins and outs of various types of visas, green cards, and other benefits.

But I Like Doing Things Myself!

A few hours trying to fill out immigration forms, and you might just change your mind.

What to do if you already have a green card?

If you already have a Green Card, go to our After a Green Card is Granted page for more information on travel, renewing a card, and your rights and responsibilities as a Green Card holder .

How many forms do I need to get a green card?

Most people who apply for a Green Card will need to complete at least two forms—an immigrant petition and a Green Card application (Form I-485). Someone else usually must file the petition for you (often referred to as sponsoring or petitioning for you), although you may be eligible to file for yourself in some cases.

What to do if I already submitted a Form I-485?

If you already submitted a Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status, and your case is pending with USCIS, go to our While Your Green Card Application Is Pending with USCIS page for more information on checking your case status, updating your address, and making appointments with USCIS.

Who must renew or replace their green card?

The design of the green card changes periodically, and current green cards expire. Once you obtain lawful permanent resident status, you do not lose your status simply because your card expired. Still, you do need to get a replacement card in order to avoid any unnecessary complications with the authorities.

Who may replace their green card?

Even if your green card is not expiring, you might still have reason to get a new card. You may want to correct biographical or contact information or ensure that your green card and citizenship are up to date with all requirements. You are eligible to replace your green card if any of the following is true:

How to renew your green card

Our office can assist with the renewal or replacement of your green card. Most of the time, the only supporting documentation you will need is a copy of your expired or expiring green card. If your card has been lost, stolen, or damaged, you might need additional proof.

How much does an immigration attorney cost?

While US immigration attorneys cost $100 to $300 and more an hour, there are times when you will want to consult with an attorney. For example, if there is something in your situation which may make it hard for you to get approved by the USCIS, you will need to speak with a US immigration attorney.

What to do if your immigration petition is rejected?

As well, if your immigration petition is rejected or if the Department of Homeland Security or USCIS accuse you of doing something illegal, a US immigration attorney is very important; he or she can help you prove your innocence. Post navigation.

Can I apply for citizenship without a lawyer?

The good news is that the USCIS makes it simple to apply for most immigration processes and even citizenship without a US immigration attorney.

Can I apply for a green card without an attorney?

You can even apply for a green card or for citizenship this way, without the services of an attorney. If you have trouble completing the forms or understanding the forms, there are many resources to help you. Some communities have organizations that help newcomers and these organizations often can offer language help that lets you fill out forms ...

Is the immigration process complicated?

The US immigration process is complex and can be intimidating for the newcomer or visitor to the US. While there are many resources to help individuals going through the US immigration process, the process can be so complicated and expensive that many immigration applicants wonder whether they need to hire a US immigration attorney in order ...

What happens if you get denied a green card?

However, if your application for a permanent resident is denied, the USCIS will provide you with a notice detailing the reasons for the denial. Note: In some cases, the USCIS can place a green card applicant into removal proceedings after his or her green card application was denied.

Who is eligible for a green card?

Family based categories of applicants who are eligible to apply for US green card include: Immediate relatives of U.S. citizens: A spouse of a US citizen; A minor child (under 21) of a US citizen; or. A parent of a US citizen over the age of 21.

What is DS-261?

The DS-261, or Online Choice of Address and Agent, is an online form that informs the State Department on how to communicate with you during the application process. During this step, you will also be expected to have your visa interview with an embassy official and submit supporting documents. 3. Travel to the U.S.

How long does it take for USCIS to respond to an adjustment of status?

Approximately 2 to 3 weeks after filing. As long as there were no errors with your adjustment of status package and all forms have been properly filed, the USCIS will respond by sending you a letter that confirms its receipt of your application.

Where do I submit my I-485?

If you are in the United States and you are eligible to adjust your status within the U.S., you must submit Form I-485 (Application for Adjustment of Status) to the USCIS office.

How long is a biometrics appointment?

Applicants ages 14-78 need to appear at their biometrics appointment. This appointment, which is also called a biometrics screening, is usually 30 minutes long. During the biometrics appointment, the USCIS will collect your fingerprints, signature, and photograph. 4.

Can non-citizens get a green card?

Eligible non-citizens who arrived in the U.S. through a lawful entry (see below) may be able to apply for a green card through the so-called Adjustment of Status (“AOS”) process.

Are You Eligible to Apply?

  • U.S. immigration laws provide a variety of ways for people to apply for a Green Card. The eligibility requirements may vary depending on the immigrant category you are applying under. Go to our Green Card Eligibility Categoriespage to see all the possible categories you can apply under and what the eligibility requirements are.
See more on uscis.gov

Are You Inside Or Outside The United States?

  • If you are eligible to apply for a Green Card, you then need to determine which process to use – adjustment of status or consular processing.
See more on uscis.gov

If You Already Have A Green Card

  • If you already have a Green Card, go to our After a Green Card is Grantedpage for more information on travel, renewing a card, and your rights and responsibilities as a Green Card holder.
See more on uscis.gov