Form I-90: Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card
The application submitted by U.S. permanent residents to renew an expiring green card or replace a lost, stolen, or damaged card.
Table of Contents
Who Needs Form I-90?
You must file Form I-90 if you are a lawful permanent resident who needs to renew your 10-year green card because it is expiring or has already expired. You also use this form to replace a card that was lost, stolen, destroyed, or damaged, or if your name or other personal details have legally changed.
Note that if you have a conditional 2-year green card (obtained through investment or recent marriage), you cannot use Form I-90 to renew it. Instead, you must file Form I-751 or Form I-829 to remove conditions.
When Do You File Form I-90?
For standard renewals, you must file Form I-90 within 6 months of your green card's expiration date. Sponsoring residents should not file earlier than 6 months before expiration.
If your card is lost, stolen, or damaged, you should file the replacement application as soon as possible, as a green card is your official legal proof of permanent resident status.
Where Do You File Form I-90?
You can file Form I-90 online by creating a USCIS online account. Online filing is fast and allows you to submit payments and track updates instantly.
If you prefer to mail a paper application, send the physical form and supporting documents to the designated USCIS lockbox address for your state.
Filing Fees & Processing Times
Filing Fee: Fees vary depending on whether you are renewing or replacing a card. Check the official uscis.gov/forms page for current rates as fees change regularly.
Processing Time: Processing is slow, often taking 6 to 18 months. However, once you file, USCIS sends a receipt notice that extends the validity of your expiring green card.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Filing with Conditional Status: Do not use Form I-90 if your card is valid for only 2 years. Using this form for conditional status will lead to fee loss and denial.
- Filing Too Early: Do not file for standard renewal more than 6 months before your card expires, as USCIS will reject the application and return your fee.
- Mismatched Signature: Sponsoring residents filing a paper application must sign the form by hand. Typed or digital names on paper applications are rejected.
What Happens After You File?
USCIS will mail you a Form I-797C receipt notice. This notice officially extends your expiring green card's validity (currently by 24 or 36 months), serving as legal proof for work and international travel.
Next, you may be scheduled for a biometrics fingerprinting appointment. Once processed, USCIS will mail your new 10-year plastic green card.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I prove my permanent status while my I-90 is pending?
Your Form I-90 receipt notice (I-797C), when presented alongside your expired physical green card, acts as a temporary extension. Alternatively, you can book an InfoPass appointment at a local USCIS office to get an ADIT (I-551) stamp in your passport.
What if I never received my green card in the mail?
If USCIS mailed your green card but you never received it, you can file Form I-90 to request a replacement. Sponsoring residents do not have to pay the filing fee if they file within 30 days of the card's mailing date and can prove it was lost in transit.
Can I apply for U.S. citizenship instead of renewing my green card?
Yes. If you qualify for naturalization, you can file Form N-400 to become a citizen. You generally do not need to file Form I-90 to renew your green card while your N-400 is pending, provided your green card has not been expired for too long.
Official Resources
OFFICIAL PAGE →Check Your Priority Date
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