Over the past year, the green card replacement processing time has increased sharply. According to recent USCIS data, the median wait to replace a green card is now about 4.3 to 8.3 months, up from just 1–2 months in previous years. This change has left many lawful permanent residents worried about their ability to work, travel, and access essential services.
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Key Points Summary
- Processing times for Form I-90 have surged by nearly 1,000% in 2025.
- Average wait is now 4.3–8.3 months, compared to 1–2 months last year.
- USCIS has extended green card validity for up to 36 months during the replacement process to help affected residents.
- Delays impact employment, travel, and government services for green card holders nationwide.
Understanding the Green Card Replacement Processing Time
The green card replacement processing time is determined by how long it takes USCIS to process Form I-90, the application to replace a lost, stolen, expired, or damaged green card. In 2025, several factors have contributed to the surge in wait times.
Record application volumes have overwhelmed the system. Between January and March 2025, USCIS received over 285,000 I-90 forms, up from 189,000 in the previous quarter. This increase has caused a backlog growth, with more than 356,000 applications pending by the end of Q2 2025, compared to 265,000 at the end of Q1. Systemic delays in the U.S. immigration system, which currently has over 3.7 million cases pending in immigration courts, have further affected processing times.
Recent Green Card Replacement Processing Times
| Year/Quarter | Median Processing Time (Form I-90) |
|---|---|
| Q4 2024 | 0.8 months |
| Q1 2025 | 0.8 months |
| Q2 2025 | 8.3 months |
| July 2025 (Median) | 4.3 months |
Data compiled from USCIS and news reports.
What Does This Mean for Applicants?
The extended green card replacement processing time can disrupt daily life for many residents. Employment may be affected, as employers often require proof of valid status. Delays complicate hiring or continued employment. Traveling internationally becomes riskier without a valid green card, although USCIS now allows the Form I-90 receipt notice to serve as temporary proof of status for up to 36 months. Access to some government services and benefits also depends on having a valid green card.
If you are affected, it is important to check your case status regularly using the USCIS online portal. Presenting your Form I-90 receipt notice along with your expired green card can serve as temporary proof of status. For urgent needs such as employment verification or travel, you may request an ADIT stamp at a local USCIS office.
Key Points for Fast Readers
- Median green card replacement processing time is now 4.3–8.3 months.
- Surge began in late 2024 and continues through July 2025.
- USCIS receipt notices now extend green card validity for up to 36 months.
- Delays impact work, travel, and access to services.
- Check your status online and use your receipt notice as proof when needed.
Final Thoughts
The green card replacement processing time is at an all-time high in 2025, causing concern and inconvenience for many. While USCIS has introduced measures to help, such as extending green card validity during processing, delays remain a significant issue. Stay tuned for the latest green card replacement processing time developments and real-time updates. What are your thoughts on the current situation? Tell us in the comments!