What You Ought To Know About Green Card Renewal
A green card is equivalent to Permanent Resident Card in the United States. This is an essential document to all permanent residents in the US. Hence, the renewal for a green card is similarly important for those with expired or expiring residence cards.
Application and Renewal Process
Renewal of said green cards is filed 180 days on or before the set expiration date. This date is indicated in every green card. Renewal can also be processed electronically because application forms for green card renewal known as I-90 forms are downloadable online. However, renewal can still be executed via traditional processes. This is by acquiring the said application form through any corresponding agencies. Applicants can renew said resident cards through personal processing and applications aside from electronic process.
Generally, a green card has 10 years validity period. In cases that a green card is lost or destroyed, an individual must apply for a renewal through Form I-90. This is very important in such circumstances in order to report the incident of misplaced or lost green card to authorities at the earliest possible time.
The renewal process may vary, but usually takes 6 to 12 months processing period. The longevity of the process may also depend on specific circumstances of every applicant. A temporary document is issued to the applicant, stating his status as a permanent resident while his green card takes the renewal process. The same document serves as his temporary evidence that has an one-year validity period.
What Happens with an Expired Green Card?
Individuals 18 years old and above with an expired green card shall carry or possess a certificate of alien registration. The failure to renew a green card is subject to the corresponding prerequisite of the Immigration and Nationality Act, specifically the Section 264 of the state policy. A person with an expired green card may also carry with him a receipt card or certificate of alien registration (at all times). Failure to comply with the said provision shall be charged with misdemeanor. Therefore, green card renewal is highly necessary as early as possible, avoiding any crime or offense against the US government.
Other Factors to Consider
Change of Status: An individual who is to become married may change his/her green card status. This is done with the same renewal process through Form I-90. A green card holder who wishes to change his/her status must fill out the said form and submit a marriage certificate as his/her supporting document.
Documents Needed for Travel - Permanent residents of the US may also travel outside the US to other countries, though some limitations are implemented on holders of such green cards when it comes to staying or traveling outside the country. Documentation like application for extension of travel or Reentry Permits is also necessary.
Therefore, there are specific documentation, regulations, and policies surrounding the renewal and validity of all green cards and green card holders. Card holders must abide by all policies and laws related to the usage and renewal of green card. Thus, green card renewal is a lawful process that all green card holders must comply with, avoiding any act of crime or misdemeanor against the government.
A Green Card or Permanent Resident Card may serve as proof of one's legal permanent resident status in the United States Of America. If you'd like to know how to make application for a Green Card or how one can restore it! Check out Green Card Maintenance and Green Card Renewal for more information!
