Once you obtain a green card, you may feel a profound sense of excitement, as this card allows you to live and work freely in the United States. However, it’s imperative to understand the rules and regulations surrounding these cards to ensure you can take the necessary steps to ensure you adhere to the rules and continue residing in the country. One such step is to ensure you renew your green card on time. If you’re unsure how or when this must be completed, you’ll want to keep reading. The following blog explores what you should know about these important matters, as well as the benefits of discussing your options with Fairfax County green card lawyers to help guide you through this process
How Often Do I Need to Renew My Green Card?
How often you need to renew your green card will depend on the type of green card you have. Generally, there are only two forms of this document: a two-year conditional card or a ten-year card.
Typically, a traditional green card expires every ten years. As such, you’ll need to take the necessary steps to ensure there is no lapse in your status. However, if you have a two-year green card, technically, these cannot be renewed. This green card is typically granted to those who have married citizens or permanent residents. You’ll need to remove the conditions after two years. At which point you will be granted a ten-year green card. Once you have this card, you do not need to renew it for a decade.
It’s imperative to understand that if you have a two-year green card and you want to convert to a ten-year, you must begin this process 90 days before your current card is set to expire. However, if you have a ten-year card, you should start this process six months before the card expires.
What Are the Steps in This Process?
If you have a two-year green card that is set to expire soon, you must first file a petition to have the conditions associated with your residence removed. As such, this process is not necessarily so much a renewal as opposed to a transition to your permanent residency card. If your two-year green card is about to expire, you’ll find that you’ll need to file Form I-751, Petition to Remove Conditions on Residence, to have the conditions associated with your card removed. Once this is complete, you will receive your ten-year card.
If your ten-year card is reaching its expiration date, the process of renewing it is relatively simple. Generally, you’ll need to submit a Form I-90, Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card. It’s important to understand that, despite the name, this form is used to both replace and renew green cards. In addition to submitting this form, you’ll also need to submit a copy of your current green card.
As you can see, renewing your green card is essential to ensuring you can remain in the United States legally. That is why it’s in your best interest to connect with an experienced attorney from Goel & Anderson to help guide you through this process. Our team understands how critical this process is, which is why we can help you achieve peace of mind for the future. Contact us today to learn how we can assist you.
