How to Renew Your Green Card Without a Lawyer

Free Step-by-Step Guide for U.S. Residents

Many lawful permanent residents (LPRs) believe they must hire an attorney to renew their Green Card — but that’s not true. In most cases, you can handle the Green Card renewal process yourself by following the official USCIS instructions and using free online resources, including our Green Card Renewal Helper.

In this guide, you’ll learn:

• When you need to renew your Green Card
• Which USCIS forms to use (Form I-90)
• How to file online or by mail
• How much it costs and how to pay
• Tips for avoiding common mistakes

Who Needs to Renew a Green Card?

Your Permanent Resident Card (Form I-551) is typically valid for 10 years. You need to renew if:

• Your card is expired or will expire within 6 months
• Your card is lost, stolen, or damaged
• Your name or other information has changed

Geo Tip: If you live in states like California, Texas, Florida, New York, or Illinois, USCIS processing times and biometrics appointments may vary by location. Always check your local USCIS field office.

The Form You Need – USCIS Form I-90

• Form Name: Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card (I-90)
• Filing Methods:
  • Online via USCIS.gov
  • By mail to the USCIS lockbox address for your state
• Fee: $455 filing fee + $85 biometrics fee (total $540)

Step-by-Step Green Card Renewal Process

Step 1 – Gather Required Documents

• Current Green Card (if available)
• Government-issued photo ID (if Green Card lost/stolen)
• Legal name change document (if applicable)
• Payment method (credit card, check, or money order)

Step 2 – Complete Form I-90

Use the official USCIS website or download the PDF. Double-check name, A-number, and expiration date.

Step 3 – Submit Your Application

• Online: Create a USCIS account and upload documents
• Mail: Send to the correct USCIS address for your state

Step 4 – Attend Biometrics Appointment

Location: Nearest USCIS Application Support Center. Bring appointment notice + photo ID.

Step 5 – Wait for USCIS Decision

Processing times: 6–12 months on average. Check status online with your receipt number.

Common Green Card Renewal Mistakes to Avoid

• Submitting outdated forms
• Sending payment to the wrong USCIS lockbox
• Forgetting to sign the application
• Not updating your address with USCIS before filing

How Our Free Tool Can Help

The Green Card Renewal Helper is a free online tool that:

• Guides you through Form I-90 questions
• Generates a personalized checklist
• Links you to the correct USCIS resources for your state
• Works without collecting your personal data

Use the Free Green Card Renewal Helper

State-by-State USCIS Field Offices

• California Green Card Renewal – Los Angeles & San Francisco Field Offices
• Texas Green Card Renewal – Houston & Dallas Field Offices
• Florida Green Card Renewal – Miami & Tampa Field Offices
• New York Green Card Renewal – Manhattan & Queens Field Offices
• Illinois Green Card Renewal – Chicago Field Office

Final Tips for a Smooth Green Card Renewal

• File early (6 months before expiration)
• Keep copies of all documents sent to USCIS
• Track your case status online weekly
• Watch for USCIS mail — respond quickly to any Requests for Evidence (RFE)

FAQ – Green Card Renewal

Q: How much does it cost to renew my Green Card in 2025?
A: $455 application fee + $85 biometrics fee = $540 total.

Q: Can I work while my Green Card renewal is pending?
A: Yes. Keep your expired Green Card and your I-797C receipt notice as proof.

Q: Can I renew my Green Card if I’m outside the U.S.?
A: Usually no — you must return to the U.S. to file, unless in certain exceptions.

Disclaimer: This article is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Using imnotalawyer.org does not create an attorney–client relationship.

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