It’s crucial for green card holders in New York to understand the New York green card renewal process. A green card can last for many years, but it is not permanent. If you do not renew a green card, your ability to travel, work, and do other things in your daily life can be affected. If you need to renew your green card in 2024, it’s important to understand the step-by-step process to avoid unintended negative consequences.
Why It Is Important to Renew a Green Card
Although a lawful permanent resident status cannot expire, the physical green card does expire. Renewing your green card ensures you have up-to-date, valid documentation that proves you are a lawful permanent resident. If you fail to renew your green card on time, it can cause problems with travel, employment, and exercising certain legal rights in the country.
Some green cards are conditional, typically for people who were married for a certain amount of time when they obtained their green card. These individuals will need to file for a removal of conditions as opposed to a standard renewal.
6 Steps to Renewing Your Green Card
In contrast to obtaining a green card, renewing a green card is a relatively straightforward process. It’s important to complete important tasks ahead of time and make sure everything is done thoroughly and accurately to avoid any unnecessary rejections or delays. Any experienced lawyer can help you navigate the following steps for renewing your green card:
- Determine when your green card expires
It’s important to locate the expiration date of your green card to determine whether it needs to be renewed. As a general rule, it is recommended to start applying for a new green card well before the date of expiration.
- Collect supporting documents
It is important to collect required documents for a renewal application before starting the application for a renewal, including a copy of your current green card, passport-style photos, other valid forms of ID, and your payment method for renewal fees.
- File your application
Complete and file Form I-90, Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card, online through the USCIS portal or as a paper application. It is crucial to double-check that all information is correct, upload all required documentation, and pay the filing and biometrics fees when completing and submitting this form.
- Attend your biometrics appointment
After submitting the application, you will likely have a biometrics appointment scheduled by USCIS at an application support center near where you live in New York. During this appointment, a USCIS agent will take your fingerprints, photograph, and signature to run a background check.
- Monitor your application
After your biometrics appointment, it is possible to continue to track your application status through your online account with USCIS. If additional information is needed, USCIS may send you a request for evidence. It is important to respond quickly to USCIS with the documentation needed to avoid delays.
- Receive your new green card
The amount of time it takes to get a new green card depends on the details of your case, your location, and the workload at USCIS. On your case status online tool on the USCIS portal, you can receive updates and an estimated processing time. In the event that you need to travel urgently, it is possible to get an appointment with USCIS to receive an I-551 stamp on your passport.
Upon receiving your new green card, it’s important to immediately review it, making sure your name, date of birth, and expiration date are all correct. It is crucial to immediately contact the USCIS if you notice any errors.
FAQs
In New York, it is generally recommended to start the renewal process several months before your green card expires. Although you can still maintain your permanent resident status after your card expires, you must have a valid card to avoid any legal problems or issues with employment or travel. You can ensure that potential processing delays are accounted for when you start the process early.
The amount of time it may take to renew a green card in New York depends on various factors, including the complexity of your case and the caseload at USCIS. You can avoid any issues that may arise by filing early, especially if you will need your green card for travel or employment purposes.
Documents required for a green card renewal include passport-style photos, a copy of the current green card you have, and any other requested documents from USCIS, depending on the specifics of your renewal circumstances. In the case that your green card has been lost or stolen, you may be required to present additional identification documentation. A skilled lawyer can help ensure you have all the required documents.
You can continue to work while your green card renewal is pending. Your permanent resident status does not expire just because your green card does. To be safe, however, it is recommended to have a copy of the document that shows your case is pending renewal to avoid any confusion with your employer. A lawyer can help you understand your workers’ rights during the green card renewal process.
You may be able to travel outside of the U.S. while your green card renewal application is pending. In addition to your expired green card, you should have your Form I-797, or renewal receipt notice, on hand to prove that your application is pending renewal. It is recommended to consult with an experienced immigration lawyer before leaving the U.S. while your green card renewal application is pending.
Navigate the New York Green Card Renewal Process With a Skilled Attorney
Whether your current green card is approaching the expiration date or you have run into issues while trying to navigate the renewal process on your own, it is crucial to have an experienced attorney on your side who can provide you with guidance. Contact us today to get started.
About The Author
Conrad E. Pollack
Conrad E. Pollack is the Managing Partner and Director of Immigration at Pollack, Pollack, Isaac & DeCicco, LLP. He graduated Magna Cum Laude from New York University and earned his J.D. from Brooklyn Law School. With over three decades of experience in immigration law, Conrad has helped countless clients achieve their American Dream. Under his leadership, PPID has expanded significantly, opening new offices in Peekskill and Brooklyn, NY. He is a member of the American Immigration Lawyers Association and has been recognized for his professional excellence with numerous awards and distinctions.
Education: Magna Cum Laude graduate from New York University; J.D. from Brooklyn Law School.
Awards: Recipient of numerous professional excellence awards.
Memberships: Active member of the American Immigration Lawyers Association.
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