If you are a lawful permanent resident (LPR) in California and your green card is set to expire, it is important to understand the renewal process and take the necessary steps to renew your green card before the expiration date arrives.
Whether you are renewing your green card for the first time or have gone through the process before, here is what you need to know to successfully renew your green card and maintain your status as a lawful permanent resident in California.
You should file your green card renewal application within six months of the expiration date of your current green card. U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) will take approximately eight to 12 months to issue you your new green card, so it is important to initiate the renewal process as soon as possible.
The California Green Card Renewal Process involves several steps you should be aware of to ensure you renew your green card successfully.
Gather all the necessary documents required for the renewal application. These documents include the renewal application form (Form I-90), a copy of your current green card, and any other supporting documentation as needed.
You should complete the green card renewal application (Form I-90). The application requires information about your personal details, immigration history, and criminal history if any. You should also complete the form for E-Notification of application acceptance (Form G-1145).
The filing fee in 2024 is currently $455. Depending on your situation, you may have an additional biometric fee of $85 to pay. To pay the I-90 filing fee for your California green card renewal application, you have a few options:
It is important to note that USCIS may reject your application if you do not pay the correct filing fee or if your payment is not processed successfully. Therefore, it is recommended that you double-check the fee amount and payment instructions before submitting your application.
After completing the application, you must submit it to USCIS, along with the required filing fees and any supporting documents. You can file your application either online or by mail.
After submitting your application, USCIS will schedule a biometrics appointment to collect your fingerprints, photograph, and signature. This appointment is required to verify your identity and conduct a background check.
Once USCIS has received your application and completed the necessary background checks, you will receive a decision on your green card renewal application. If your application is approved, USCIS will issue you a new green card with an updated expiration date.
If your green card renewal application is denied, USCIS will provide a reason for the denial. You may be able to appeal the decision or file a motion to reopen or reconsider your case.
By following these steps, you can successfully renew your green card and maintain your status as a lawful permanent resident in California.
The reasons why a green card renewal application may be rejected in California are similar to those that can cause rejections in other states. Here are some of the most common reasons:
It is important to carefully review all application requirements and ensure the application is complete and accurate before submitting it to USCIS to avoid any potential rejection.
You can check the status of your green card renewal application to see if it has been approved by following these steps:
Alternatively, you can sign up for E-Notifications using Form G-1145.
As of March 2024, the filing fee to renew a green card in California is $540. This fee includes both the application fee and the biometrics fee. However, USCIS fees are subject to change, so it is always a good idea to check the USCIS website for the most up-to-date fee information before submitting your application. In addition to the USCIS filing fee, you may also need to pay attorney’s fees if you choose to hire an immigration lawyer to assist you with the green card renewal process.
In most cases, a misdemeanor conviction should not prevent you from renewing your green card in California. However, if the misdemeanor was related to certain crimes, such as fraud, drug trafficking, or a crime of moral turpitude, it could affect your ability to renew your green card.
If you need assistance with your green card application or renewal, count on U.S. Law Center. Our team of experienced and knowledgeable immigration lawyers is committed to helping you navigate the challenging immigration process and achieving your objectives. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and let us guide you through the process of obtaining or renewing your green card.