February 21, 2012
Tips 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.
What Happens During the Renewal Process?
The green card renewal can be filed 180 days before the stipulated expiration date which is stated in front of every green card. The application form for a green card renewal is commonly known as the Form I-90 which can be downloaded online. Thus, the application for renewal may be processed electronically. However, it could also be executed via the traditional process, by acquiring an application form through the corresponding agency. Applicants may renew their residence cards through personal applications besides the electronic process.
In general, every green card has validity of 10 years. In the event that a card is misplaced, lost, or destroyed, the application form I-90 for card renewal is similarly necessary. Any individual with lost, misplaced, or destroyed green card must fill out the Form I-90 immediately, reporting the said incident to authorities as early as possible.
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 a one-year validity period.
Green Card Expiry
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 Considerations
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.
Travel Documents: Permanent residents may stay outside the US territories, traveling to other countries. However, there are certain limitations for green card holders to stay or travel outside the country. Travel documents like Reentry Permit or application for extended travel may also be 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.
Filed under Legal Recruiters by Anne