What Documents Are Required to Renew a Green Card?

That small plastic card in your wallet does more than prove your identity. It confirms your right to live and work permanently in the United States. But while your status is permanent, the card itself is not. When the expiration date approaches, renewing it on time helps you avoid delays with travel, employment, or even a driver’s license.

At N400 Harbor Immigration Law, we help permanent residents across Florida and beyond stay on track. This guide outlines the key documents you’ll need to renew your Green Card smoothly.

When to Renew Your Green Card

The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) says to file for a new ten-year card once the current one has expired or will expire within six months. Filing early avoids gaps in proof of status while you wait for processing.

Conditional residents get a two-year card. Instead of Form I-90, they use Form I-751 (marriage-based residents) or Form I-829 (entrepreneur investors) during the 90-day window before the card expires. Submitting the wrong form can cause delays or worse, so double-check the wording printed on your card.

Some older cards issued without expiration dates are no longer accepted by many employers or border officers. If you still carry one of those, treat it as expired and apply for a fresh version.

Documents Required for Green Card Renewal

For straightforward renewals, the USCIS wants only a copy of the expiring card. For replacement cases or name changes, bring extra items. Keep copies of everything you send.

Essential Documents

Every applicant should place the items below on top of the packet or upload them first when filing online:

• A clear photocopy of the front and back of your current or recently expired Green Card.
• A government-issued photo ID, such as a passport or driver’s license, is required if the card is lost or unreadable.
• Two passport-style color photos taken within the last 30 days, if you file by mail (online filers will have photos captured at biometrics).
• A payment receipt or completed Form I-912 if requesting a fee waiver.

Situational Documents

Add the following only if they apply to you. Sending extra, unrelated papers can slow the review.

• Marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order for any legal name change since your last card was issued.
• Lease agreements, utility bills, or pay stubs covering the past twelve months if the USCIS asks for proof of continued residence.
• Certified court disposition or police records if you have ever been arrested since receiving permanent residency.

The Green Card Renewal Process: A Step-by-Step Guide

The timeline can feel scattered because multiple notices arrive by mail and online. The outline below shows what happens and roughly when.

Green Card Renewal Timeline Snapshot

* Processing times vary by service center. Check the USCIS website for up-to-date averages.

File Form I-90

Fill out the form online or by hand, attach all required documents, and pay the fees. Online filing gives instant confirmation, while paper filers should use a trackable mailing service and keep the receipt.

Attend Biometrics Appointment (If Required)

The USCIS will send a letter with the date, time, and address of your local Application Support Center. Bring the notice, a photo ID, and any other paperwork listed. Missing the appointment leads to automatic delays, so reschedule in advance if you cannot attend.

Monitor Your Case Status

Use the receipt number on the USCIS “Check Case Status” page. Respond right away to any Request For Evidence (RFE). Most RFEs ask for a clearer copy of the card or proof of a legal name change.

Receive Your New Green Card

Once approved, the USCIS mails the card in a plain white envelope marked “USCIS.” Review the spelling, date of birth, and expiration date as soon as it arrives. If something looks off, call the USCIS Contact Center within 30 days to request a correction without extra fees.

What to Expect After Applying

The first notice you receive is the I-797C receipt, which now extends the validity of your old card for 24 months beyond the printed expiration date. If your employer or DMV asks for unexpired status, present the old card together with the receipt.

A biometrics appointment notice usually follows within a couple of weeks. Some renewal cases skip biometrics if fingerprints on file are still usable, so do not worry if you never receive that second letter.

USCIS processing speeds change throughout the year. Checking your online account once a month is enough. Daily refreshes will not make the card arrive sooner.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

A little preparation prevents the most frequent setbacks:

1. Waiting until the card is already expired to file. Aim for the six-month window.
2. Paying the wrong fee or forgetting the biometrics charge.
3. Leaving a birth date or Alien Number blank on Form I-90.
4. Forgetting to sign the form before mailing.
5. Sending blurry photocopies that hide key details on the card.

Need Assistance with Your Green Card Renewal? Contact N400 Harbor Immigration Law

Putting together a solid application now saves months of delay down the road. If you have arrests, time spent abroad, or simply want a second pair of eyes on the paperwork, we are ready to help. Call 786-891-1309 or reach us through our Contact Us page to schedule a consultation. Together, we will keep your resident status secure and let you focus on life, work, and family in the United States.