Can you be deported because of an expired green card?

Jennifer Paulino, New York managing attorney | Marble Law

New York & immigration managing attorney at Marble Law

Published April 28, 2025 · 3 min read

Key Takeaways

An expired green card doesn’t mean you’ve lost your permanent resident status.
You can renew an unconditional green card with Form I-90 up to 6 months before it expires.
Once you file, you get a 24-month extension that counts as valid proof of status.
Renewal processing usually takes 8–12 months, depending on your case.

What happens if your green card expires?

Your green card is your proof of lawful permanent resident status in the U.S. If it expires, you’re still a permanent resident—but you may run into serious issues. An expired green card makes it harder to travel internationally, prove your right to work, or apply for things like a driver’s license or home loan.

You could also face delays or complications with employers, especially if you need to update your work authorization. While an expired green card alone won’t cause you to be deported, it can trigger problems if you’ve also broken other immigration rules.

How to qualify for a green card extension

There are two types of green cards—unconditional and conditional—each has its own renewal process.

Unconditional green cards

If you have a standard 10-year green card, you can file Form I-90 to renew it. You should submit this form within 6 months before it expires. The process is usually straightforward and involves confirming your identity and your continued residence in the U.S.

Conditional green cards

If your green card is conditional (valid for 2 years), the renewal process is different:

Marriage-based green card holders need to file Form I-751 to remove conditions.
Investor green card holders need to file Form I-829.

You must file the appropriate form within 90 days before your card expires. You must also include evidence that your marriage or investment is still valid and meets USCIS requirements.

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How long does applying for green card renewal typically last?

On average, it takes 8 to 12 months to process a green card renewal through Form I-90. Processing times can vary depending on the USCIS service center and your personal circumstances.

The good news is: once you file Form I-90, you’ll receive a receipt notice that automatically extends your green card for 24 months. You can use this notice with your expired card as proof of valid residency while you wait for your new card.

How an immigration lawyer can help you extend your green card

Even though the green card renewal process may seem simple, things can get complicated—especially if you’ve spent long periods outside the U.S., have a criminal record, or are applying to remove conditions from your status. An immigration lawyer with Marble can review your case, spot any red flags, and make sure all your forms and documents are filed correctly. They’ll also help you respond to USCIS requests and avoid delays. If there are any potential issues with your status, they’ll help you resolve them before they become bigger problems.