Maintaining valid and updated green card status is essential for lawful permanent residents in the U.S. Filing Form I-90 with Citizenship and Immigration Services is one of the first steps in green card renewal.
I-90 processing time can be up to 24 months. USCIS.gov processing times currently state that 80% of initial issuance or replacement cases are completed within 24 months. I 90 processing time for 10-year renewals shows 80% of cases completed within 27 months.
The duration of green card replacement processing time after submitting Form I-90 varies and depends on several factors. It is important to track the progress of your I-90 application using the USCIS online case status tool or by contacting USCIS directly to get a receipt notice. Seeking legal advice from an immigration attorney and ensuring the application is filled out correctly with all necessary documents may help streamline the process for permanent resident card and minimize delays.
I'll lay out the green card renewal process, discuss how long each step may take, and how to expedite the green card renewal process.
Step 1: File Form I-90
Form I-90, Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card, is used by lawful permanent residents (green card holders) to ask for a brand-new card or restore an existing one. Whether up for renewal, lost, stolen, damaged, or contains outdated information, the I 90 form serves as the official application to get a new card.
The time it takes you to complete Form I-90 is less important than ensuring it is accurate, contains any necessary supporting documentation, and contains no falsified information. Being rejected can significantly increase your green card renewal time.
Step 2: Receipt of Application
Assuming you properly completed and filed your Form I-90, USCIS will mail you a receipt (Form I-797C, Notice of Action) that confirms your application was received. The Notice of Action usually arrives within 2-4 weeks (maybe longer) and communicates the following information:
- The receipt of your Form I-90
- Rejection information
- Transfer of your case/application
- Re-opening of your case/application
- Appointments
Be sure to read the receipt application carefully to understand what your next step should be.
Step 3: Biometrics Appointment
As part of your Notice of Action form or in a separate appointment notice, USCIS will communicate your assigned biometric appointment date, time, and location, typically within 6 to 10 weeks.
Your biometrics appointment will involve the following:
- Fingerprinting
- Photographing or collection of a photograph
- And your signature
You will also need to provide a form of government-issued photo ID to enter the facility. This can include:
- Driver's license
- Military ID
- Stated-issued photo ID
- Passport
- National photo ID issued by your country
You will not be interviewed during your biometric appointment, it is only for collecting the necessary biometric information to continue the green card renewal process. If you miss or reschedule your biometric appointment, it will lengthen the application time. You do not need an immigration attorney with you during your appointment, but if you have a criminal history, you should contact one and discuss whether you are still eligible for immigration benefits.
Step 4: Follow-ups, Appeals, and Receiving Your New Green Card
It's not a bad idea to periodically check the progress of your I-90 application. If there are any issues holding up processing your application, you should get a notice in the mail. If your I-90 application is rejected, you can appeal the decision or refile via Form I-290B. The typical appeal window is 30 days from the decision date, but may be as little as 15-days if it's a revocation of petition.
Once you receive your new green card, you are officially and legally a permanent resident of the United States! Just be prepared to wait a while!
Aspects Affecting the Processing Time
Numerous aspects can affect the processing time for the I-90 and the subsequent issuance of a new permit. If you have questions about green card eligibility read our article, Can I Get a Green Card? Comprehending these aspects is vital to handle expectations during the process of green card renewal:
1. USCIS Work: The overall workload at USCIS or the service center can affect processing times. High volumes of applications and limited resources might lead to delays.
2. Efficiency and Precision of the Application: Any mistakes or missing info on the I-90 form can cause processing hold-ups. Ensure that the application is submitted correctly and all required supporting files are included.
3. USCIS Processing Centers: USCIS has different service centers throughout the United States that deal with the processing of migration applications. The location where your application is sent can impact processing times.
4. Biometrics Visit: After submitting the I-90 form, candidates usually receive a notice to appear for biometrics (fingerprinting) at a USCIS Application Support Center. The schedule of visits and your capability to participate immediately can impact processing times.
5. Complexity of the Case: Certain scenarios, such as criminal history, prior migration infractions, or pending removal proceedings, can complicate the processing of an I-90 application, potentially leading to longer processing times.
Expedited Processing
In certain situations, candidates may be qualified for expedited processing of the I-90 type. Examples include:
- Immediate travel requirements
- Humanitarian reasons
- Extreme financial loss
- USCIS error or directive
- Other emergency situations
Disclaimer: The information provided on this blog is intended for general informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice on any subject matter. This information is not intended to create, and receipt or viewing does not constitute an attorney-client relationship. Each individual's legal needs are unique, and these materials may not be applicable to your legal situation. Always seek the advice of a competent attorney with any questions you may have regarding a legal issue. Do not disregard professional legal advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this blog.
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