How long does it take to renew the green card?

Current green card renewal processing times

Green card renewal times vary, but most Form I-90 applications take 8 to 12 months from start to finish. Processing times depend on USCIS workload, staffing, background checks, and how many applications are received nationwide. Individual cases may be faster or slower.

USCIS updates processing times regularly on uscis.gov. You can check your specific service center to see the current estimated timeframe. Because these numbers change month to month, reviewing them before filing is helpful.

Timeline breakdown: what to expect

A typical renewal follows several steps. While timelines vary, here is what most applicants experience:

Filing and initial receipt (1 to 4 weeks)

After submitting Form I-90 online or by mail, USCIS processes your application at a lockbox facility. Within a few weeks, you will receive a Form I-797 receipt notice with your case number. This notice extends your green card for 12 months.

Biometrics appointment notice (4 to 8 weeks)

USCIS may require you to attend a biometrics appointment. If so, you will receive a notice with the date, time, and location. Many applicants now have their old biometrics reused, which eliminates this step entirely.

Biometrics appointment (if scheduled)

If a biometrics appointment is required, you go to a local Application Support Center to provide fingerprints, a photo, and a signature. The appointment usually takes under 30 minutes.

Background check and case review (6 to 10+ months)

This is the longest stage. USCIS completes background checks, reviews your case, verifies your information, and prepares your file for adjudication. Most of the processing time is spent here.

Approval and card production (2 to 4 weeks)

Once approved, USCIS produces your new card and mails it to the address on your application. Most cards arrive within 2 to 4 weeks of approval.

Total timeline: 8 to 12 months

From filing to receiving your new card, the process typically takes 8 to 12 months. Some cases may take 6 to 8 months, while more complex cases may exceed 12 months.

Factors affecting green card renewal processing time

Several factors influence how long your renewal takes:

USCIS service center workload

Each service center handles different volumes of Form I-90 applications. Some centers consistently process faster than others, depending on staffing and backlogs.

Application completeness and accuracy

Submitting a complete and accurate application helps avoid delays. Missing information, incorrect fees, or incomplete documents may result in a Request for Evidence, which adds months of processing time.

Biometrics reuse

If USCIS reuses your previous biometrics, your case may skip an entire step, which could shorten the overall timeline.

Background check complications

Cases may take longer if background checks trigger additional review. This can happen with applicants who have common names, previous arrests, immigration violations, or extensive international travel.

Policy changes and USCIS priorities

Processing times often shift due to policy updates, staffing changes, system backlogs, or national events.

Case complexity

Straightforward renewals usually move faster. Cases involving name changes, criminal history, lost cards, or incorrect previous information may take longer to review.

When to start the renewal process

Timing your renewal correctly helps you avoid unnecessary complications.

USCIS recommendation: 6 months before expiration

USCIS advises filing Form I-90 six months before your card expires. This gives enough time for processing and ensures you receive the automatic 12-month extension.

Earliest filing window: 6 months before expiration

Any application submitted earlier than six months may be rejected.

Consequences of late filing

Renewing late can make it harder to travel, update your I-9 employment verification, or prove your status. If your card expires, you must rely on the 12-month extension from your receipt notice, which is only available after filing.

How to calculate your filing window

Look at the expiration date printed on your card and count backward 180 days. That date is when you can first file.

What to do if renewal takes longer than expected

Delays can happen, but you have several ways to check on your case and keep it moving.

Check current processing times

Start by comparing your receipt date with the posted processing times on uscis.gov. Each service center lists a time range. If your receipt date is earlier than the “case inquiry date,” your application is officially outside normal processing times.

Case status online

Use your receipt number to check your case status at uscis.gov/casestatus. Updates may show if USCIS mailed a notice, issued a Request for Evidence, or completed a step in your application.

Contact USCIS

If your case falls outside normal processing times, you can call the USCIS Contact Center at 1-800-375-5283 or submit an online inquiry. USCIS may send an update or ask for additional information.

Respond to Requests for Evidence quickly

An RFE pauses your case until you respond. Submitting a complete response well before the deadline helps avoid further delay.

Seek help through a congressional inquiry

If your case is significantly delayed, you can reach out to your congressional representative. Their office may contact USCIS on your behalf to request a status update.

Mandamus lawsuit (rare and last resort)

If your case has been stalled for an unreasonable amount of time, an immigration attorney may discuss a mandamus lawsuit. This legal action asks a federal court to require USCIS to act on your case. It is used only in extreme delays.

Expedite requests for green card renewals

USCIS allows expedited processing in limited situations. These requests are not guaranteed and require strong evidence.

When USCIS may consider an expedite request

USCIS may expedite a renewal if you can show:

Routine travel plans, expired identification documents, or employer preference do not qualify.

How to request an expedite

You can request an expedite by calling the USCIS Contact Center. If USCIS agrees to review your request, you must submit documentation supporting the emergency, such as medical records, employer letters, or financial evidence.

Traveling with an expired green card during renewal

Traveling internationally is difficult if your green card expires while renewal is pending.

Airlines may refuse boarding because an expired green card may not be accepted as valid proof of status. Even with a 12-month extension notice, some carriers require a valid physical card. Upon return, Customs and Border Protection may question eligibility to re-enter. If travel is unavoidable, obtaining an I-551 stamp is a good option.If emergency travel is unavoidable, you may need a boarding foil from a U.S. consulate abroad.

Whenever possible, avoid international travel until you receive your new card.

Cost of green card renewal

Renewing your green card involves several potential costs.

Form I-90 filing fee

The Form I-90 fee typically ranges from $0 \- $465 depending on the reason for renewal $540 to $560, depending on fee updates. Check uscis.gov for the most current fee structure, as amounts change periodically.

Payment methods

You can pay by:

Checks must be payable to “U.S. Department of Homeland Security.”

Fee waivers

Fee waivers are available in limited cases involving financial hardship. To request one, you must submit Form I-912 with supporting documentation.

Additional costs

You may also pay for passport photos (if needed), copying or mailing documents, attorney fees, and transportation for appointments.

Common reasons for renewal delays

Several common issues cause longer-than-normal processing times:

Incomplete applications

Missing signatures, incorrect fees, or incomplete answers can lead to rejections or additional review.

Requests for Evidence

If USCIS needs more information, your case will pause until you respond.

Biographical or name changes

Applications involving name changes or incorrect information require manual review.

Criminal history or immigration violations

Any arrest or past violation may trigger additional background checks.

USCIS system-wide backlogs

High application volume, staffing shortages, and national events can slow processing times across all service centers.

What happens if renewal is denied

Denials are rare, but they can carry serious consequences.

Common denial reasons

USCIS may deny a renewal if:

Notice of decision

If USCIS denies your application, you receive a written notice explaining the reason for denial and outlining your options.

Appeal and motion options

You may be able to file a:

These filings must usually be submitted within 30 days of the denial.

Consult an immigration attorney

A denial can lead to status complications or even removal proceedings, so speaking with an immigration attorney, like those with Marble, can help you understand your options and next steps.

Conclusion

Green card renewal typically takes 8 to 12 months from start to finish, making early filing essential for maintaining valid proof of permanent resident status. Filing six months before your card expires, submitting a complete application, responding quickly to USCIS requests, and monitoring your case online all help reduce delays.

Although processing times vary based on workload, background checks, and policy changes, staying proactive ensures you maintain uninterrupted documentation for work, travel, and identification. If delays occur, USCIS offers several ways to check your case status, and limited expedite options may apply in emergencies.