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A green card serves as physical proof of a person’s permanent resident status in the United States. While Green Cards are valid for ten years, they still need to be renewed to keep the permanent resident’s status and documentation up to date. Recent immigration policy now provides a 36-month extension of a green card’s validity for permanent residents who correctly filed to renew their green cards. This new extension replaces the previous 24-month extension, and gives green card holders additional time to live and work in the U.S. without disruption while their renewal application is being processed.
An Overview of Green Cards
A permanent resident is someone who has been granted permission by the government to live and work in the United States permanently. The green card serves as proof of this status. Once given a green card, however, it does not last forever. While the actual permanent resident status does NOT expire, the card does. Green cards are required to be renewed by filing a Form I-90 in so that the status and documentation remain up to date. If you’re a permanent resident with questions about your Green Card’s expiration status, it’s highly recommended to consult with an immigration attorney before any potential complications may arise.
Green Card Expiration and Renewals
Green cards are valid for 10 years. However, some green cards are conditional, and are only valid for two years. Conditional green cards are those issued to individuals who obtained their status through a marriage of less than two years to a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident. There is a different set of rules and procedures when it comes to renewing the two-year conditional green card as opposed to a ten-year green card. As such, it is important to know which kind of green card you hold, and to remember the expiration date.
If someone fails to renew their green card prior to its expiration date, they are considered to be illegally living and working in the U.S. Due to the importance of maintaining valid status, it is recommended to file Form I-90 to renew a green card to at least six months before expiration, to avoid any potential legal complications or disruptions. The failure to carry valid documentation of immigration status constitutes a violation of federal law. Section 264 of the U.S. Immigration and Nationality Act stipulates that non-citizens who are 18 years of age or older and residing in the United States must carry proof of their immigration status, such as their Green Card, at all times. If a person is found guilty of this offense, they may be charged with a misdemeanor, which could result in a fine of up to $100 and/or up to 30 days in jail.
The 36 Month Green Card Extension for Renewal
This past September, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) changed its policy and extended the validity of green cards to 36 months. This extension can be granted to permanent residents who properly file the Form I-90, “Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card” to renew an expiring or expired Green Card. Previously, Form I-90 receipt notices provided a 24-month extension for renewal, but the validity period has now been increased to 36 months. Even if a green card expires, the Form 1-90 receipt notices can be shown along with the expired card to offer proof of status. This additional 12-month extension provides green card holders with extra time to live and work in the U.S. without disruption while their renewal application is processed.
Contact CoxEsq, PC Immigration Law Firm For Help With Green Card Renewals
The experienced legal team at CoxEsq, PC can provide the support and guidance needed to navigate complex immigration matters. Whether you’re seeking to obtain your permanent resident status or need assistance with green card renewals, we’re here to help every step of the way. Contact CoxEsq, PC today to learn more about how we can simplify your immigration journey and ensure your status remains secure.