I-90 Green Card Renewal & Replacement Guide (2026)

Your green card expires every 10 years (or 2 years for conditional residents). Form I-90 is how you renew or replace it. In 2026, processing times have stretched to 8–14 months — up significantly from prior years — making early filing critical.

This guide covers when to file, what the process looks like, and how to maintain proof of your permanent resident status while you wait.

When to file Form I-90

File Form I-90 if any of these apply:

• Your 10-year green card is expiring or has expired — the most common reason
• Your card was lost, stolen, or destroyed
• Your card was damaged or is no longer readable
• Your name or other biographical information has legally changed (and you need an updated card)
• You never received your card after approval
• You turned 14 and your current card will expire after your 16th birthday (required to get a new card with updated biometrics)
• Your card contains incorrect information due to a USCIS error
• You are a commuter whose status has changed to a regular resident (or vice versa)

When NOT to file I-90

• Conditional residents (2-year card): If you have a 2-year conditional green card, you do not file I-90 to renew. Instead, you file Form I-751 (Removal of Conditions) during the 90-day window before your card expires. See the removal of conditions guide.
• About to apply for citizenship: If you are within 6 months of N-400 eligibility, consider filing for naturalization instead of spending $465 on a renewal.

Step-by-step process

Step 1: File Form I-90

File online through your USCIS account (recommended for faster processing) or by mail. Online filing provides immediate receipt confirmation and the ability to track your case status.

Filing fee: $465 ($415 filing fee + $50 biometrics fee). Fee waivers are available for qualifying applicants using Form I-912.

Step 2: Receive your I-797 receipt notice

After USCIS receives your application, they mail Form I-797C (Receipt Notice). This receipt notice is your most important document during the renewal process — it automatically extends your green card validity for 24 months from the expiration date printed on your card.

Keep this receipt with your green card at all times. Together, they serve as proof of your permanent resident status for employment (Form I-9), travel, and identification.

Step 3: Biometrics appointment

USCIS schedules a biometrics appointment at a local Application Support Center (ASC) within 2–6 weeks of filing. You will provide fingerprints, a photo, and a signature for your new card.

Step 4: Wait for your new card

After biometrics, your case enters the adjudication queue. Current processing times are 8–14 months from the filing date. Some straightforward renewals are processed faster; cases involving name changes, lost cards, or other complications may take longer.

Step 5: Receive your new green card

Your new 10-year green card arrives by mail in a secure USCIS envelope. Verify all information on the card immediately — if there are errors, contact USCIS right away.

Processing times in 2026

Processing times have roughly doubled compared to 2024–2025. Check the USCIS processing time tool for the most current estimates.

The 24-month automatic extension

When you file Form I-90 to renew an expiring or recently expired green card, the I-797 receipt notice automatically extends your card’s validity for 24 months beyond the expiration date printed on the card. This extension:

• Is valid for employment verification (Form I-9)
• Is accepted by CBP for re-entry to the U.S.
• Works for TSA identification at airports
• Serves as proof of permanent resident status

To use the extension, carry both your green card and I-797 receipt notice together. The receipt alone is not sufficient — you need both documents.

What if 24 months pass and you still do not have your new card?

This is rare but possible in extreme backlog situations. Contact USCIS through the online case inquiry system or schedule an InfoPass appointment at your local field office. You can also request an I-551 stamp in your passport as temporary proof of status.

Costs in 2026

If USCIS made the error that requires replacement (incorrect name, wrong date of birth, etc.), there is no fee — file I-90 and indicate it is due to a USCIS error.

Filing online vs. by mail

USCIS strongly encourages online filing. You need a USCIS online account at my.uscis.gov.

Special situations

Expired green card

You can (and should) still file I-90 even if your card has already expired. An expired green card does not mean you have lost your permanent resident status — you are still an LPR. However, you may face difficulties with employment verification and travel until you have the I-797 receipt.

Green card while abroad

If your green card expires while you are outside the U.S., you can apply for a Transportation Letter (also called a Boarding Foil or SB-1 Returning Resident Visa) at the nearest U.S. consulate to return to the United States. If you have been abroad for less than 1 year, you may be able to return with your expired green card, but you should contact CBP or the consulate in advance.

If you have been abroad for more than 1 year without a reentry permit, you may be considered to have abandoned your permanent residence.

Lost or stolen card

File I-90 as soon as possible. If you need immediate proof of status:

1. Schedule an InfoPass appointment at your local USCIS field office
2. Request an I-551 stamp (ADIT stamp) in your passport
3. The stamp serves as temporary proof of permanent residence for 1–2 years

If your card was stolen, consider also filing a police report — this is not required for the I-90 but may help if identity theft is a concern.

Name change

If you have legally changed your name (through marriage, divorce, or court order), file I-90 with a copy of the legal document showing the name change (marriage certificate, court order, etc.). Your new card will reflect the updated name.

Tips for a smooth renewal

• File 6 months before expiration to ensure you have the I-797 receipt before your card expires
• File online for faster receipt and easier tracking
• Keep copies of everything you submit
• Do not laminate or alter your green card — this can make it appear fraudulent
• Bring both your card and I-797 to the biometrics appointment
• Check your mailbox — USCIS sends the new card by regular mail with no signature required. If you are concerned about mail theft, consider using a P.O. box or informed delivery through USPS

Not legal advice. Green card renewal is straightforward for most applicants, but complications can arise if you have extended absences from the U.S., a criminal history, or other issues that may affect your permanent resident status. Consult an immigration attorney if your situation is not routine.