When Should You Renew Green Card?
A legal Permanent Resident should renew their green card document every 10 years.
If you are a permanent resident whose 10-year green card has expired or will expire within 6 months of the expiration date, you may begin the renewal process by filing Form I-90, Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card.
Note: If your green card will expire within 6 months, it is important to analyze your situation as you may be eligible for naturalization. You may be able to file form N-400 (Application for Naturalization) instead of renewing your green card. This may save you time and money in the long term.
How Do You Renew Your Green Card If You Are Outside The United States?
If you are outside the United States and your green card will expire within 6 months (but you will return within 1 year of your departure from the United States and before the card expires), you should file for your renewal card as soon as you return to the United States.
If you are outside of the United States when the card expires and you have not applied for the renewal card prior to your departure, you should contact the nearest U.S. Consulate, USCIS office, or U.S. port of entry before attempting to file Form I-90 for a renewal green card.
What Do I Do If My Application to Renew Green Card Was Denied?
If your I-90 application is denied, you will receive a letter from the USCIS stating why the application was rejected. You are not be allowed to appeal a negative decision but what you can do is submit a motion to reopen or a motion to reconsider with the same office that denied your application. By filing this motion, you are asking the USCIS office to reexamine or reconsider its decision.
Can I live In the U.S. If My Green Card Expires?
It depends on whether you are still considered to be in lawful immigration status.
If you are a permanent resident, and your card expires, you are still in lawful immigration status and still have a right to live and work in the U.S. but you no longer have a valid evidence of your status. Also you cannot travel outside the United States with an expired green card and may face potential problems if you are changing your employment.
