Knowing how to renew your green card is essential for every U.S. permanent resident. As of December 2025, the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) allows applicants to renew or replace their green cards entirely online or by mail, depending on their situation.
With digital filing, faster case updates, and automatic status extensions, the process has become more efficient than ever. Here’s everything you need to know about renewing your green card in 2025.
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Who Needs to Renew a Green Card
A green card (officially known as a Permanent Resident Card, Form I-551) is the primary proof of your lawful permanent resident (LPR) status in the United States. Most green cards are valid for 10 years and must be renewed before they expire.
You should renew your green card if:
- Your card will expire within six months.
- Your card has already expired.
- Your card was lost, stolen, or damaged.
- Your card contains incorrect or outdated information, such as a name change.
If you are a conditional permanent resident (for example, through marriage or investment), you must file a different form — Form I-751 or I-829 — to remove conditions, not renew your card.
When to Renew Your Green Card
USCIS recommends starting the renewal process six months before your current green card expires.
Renewing early ensures you don’t lose valid proof of your status, which can cause issues when applying for jobs, renewing a driver’s license, or traveling internationally.
If your card has already expired, you should file your renewal application immediately. Your permanent resident status does not expire, but you must always carry a valid green card as proof of your legal presence.
How to Renew Your Green Card in 2025
You can renew your green card by filing Form I-90 (Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card). As of 2025, USCIS allows two filing options — online or by mail.
Option 1: Renew Your Green Card Online
Filing online is the fastest and most convenient method.
Here’s how to do it:
- Create or log in to your USCIS account
- Visit USCIS.gov and sign in to your myUSCIS account.
- If you don’t have one, you can create it using your email address.
- Start a new Form I-90 application
- Choose “Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card.”
- Select your reason for renewal, such as an expiring card or a lost card.
- Upload required documents
- A copy of your current or expired green card (front and back).
- If your card was lost or stolen, upload a passport or government-issued photo ID.
- If your name has changed, upload a legal name change document (e.g., marriage certificate or court order).
- Pay the filing fee online
- As of December 2025, the total cost is $540 ($455 application fee + $85 biometrics fee).
- You can pay with a debit card, credit card, or bank transfer.
- Track your case status
- Once submitted, you’ll receive a receipt number (starting with “IOE”) that lets you track your case online.
- You can check your status anytime at USCIS.gov/casestatus or in your account.
Option 2: Renew Your Green Card by Mail
If you prefer or must file by mail, follow these steps:
- Download and complete Form I-90 from the USCIS website.
- Include:
- A photocopy of your expiring or expired green card.
- Payment by check or money order made payable to “U.S. Department of Homeland Security.”
- Mail your application package to the address listed on the USCIS I-90 Direct Filing Addresses page (the location depends on your state).
- Keep your receipt notice for tracking.
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Biometrics Appointment
After submitting your renewal, USCIS will schedule a biometrics appointment at a local Application Support Center (ASC).
You’ll receive a notice in the mail or via your online account with the date, time, and location.
During this appointment, USCIS collects your fingerprints, photo, and signature to confirm your identity and run background checks.
Most applicants complete biometrics within 4–6 weeks after filing.
How Long It Takes to Renew Your Green Card
As of December 2025, the average processing time for a green card renewal is 6 to 9 months.
However, processing times may vary based on:
- The service center handling your case
- The volume of applications received
- Whether additional documentation is required
USCIS continuously updates average processing times on its website. Online filers typically receive faster updates and can track their progress in real time.
What to Do If Your Green Card Expires While Waiting
If your card expires before your new one arrives, you’re still a lawful permanent resident. USCIS automatically extends your green card’s validity for 24 months after you file Form I-90.
Your I-797C Notice of Action (receipt notice) serves as temporary proof of your status when combined with your expired card.
This document allows you to:
- Continue working legally in the U.S.
- Re-enter the country after international travel
- Renew your driver’s license or ID
Keep your receipt notice with you until your new card arrives.
If Your Card Is Lost or Stolen
If your green card has been lost, stolen, or destroyed, you must also file Form I-90 — either online or by mail.
Choose “My card was lost or stolen” as your reason for applying. Upload or include a copy of another government-issued photo ID, such as a passport or driver’s license, to verify your identity.
For green cards lost abroad, contact the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate before returning to the U.S. to obtain travel authorization.
Avoiding Common Renewal Mistakes
To prevent delays, make sure you:
- Renew early: Don’t wait until your card expires.
- Use the correct form: File Form I-90, not Form I-751 (unless you have a conditional card).
- Upload clear documents: Blurry or incomplete scans can slow down your case.
- Keep your address updated: File Form AR-11 or update your address in your USCIS account if you move.
- Check your case weekly: Regular monitoring helps catch any requests for evidence (RFEs) or errors.
Renewing After a Legal Name Change
If you’ve legally changed your name since your last green card was issued, you must include official proof with your renewal.
Acceptable documents include:
- Marriage certificate
- Divorce decree
- Court order granting the name change
Your new green card will display your updated legal name once approved.
How to Check Your Case Status
After filing, you can check your green card renewal status at any time by:
- Logging into your USCIS account, or
- Visiting USCIS.gov/casestatus and entering your receipt number
Common updates you may see include:
- Case Was Received
- Biometrics Completed
- Case Is Being Actively Reviewed
- Card Is Being Produced
- Card Was Mailed
When your card is mailed, you’ll get a USPS tracking number to monitor delivery.
Final Thoughts
Understanding how to renew your green card helps ensure you maintain your legal residency and avoid unnecessary complications. Filing Form I-90 online is the fastest, safest, and most convenient option in 2025 — giving you full control and instant updates.
Have you renewed your green card recently? Share your experience or questions in the comments below!