A big change has been announced by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) for lawful permanent residents renewing their Green Cards. With effect from September 10, 2024, those who have correctly filed Form I-90 will automatically have their Green Cards extended for an additional 36 months by USCIS. Those renewing their expired or soon-to-expire Green Cards are eligible for this extension.

While their renewal applications are being handled, Green Card holders will be able to keep their status as lawful permanent residents thanks to this adjustment.

Longer Validity for Green Card Renewals

Before now, USCIS offered a 24-month extension for renewing green cards. This term has now been extended by an extra 12 months, for a total of 36 months, due to rising processing times. This extension will take effect for anyone submitting a Form I-90 renewal request starting on the day the Green Card is marked as expiring.

Key points

• Beginning on September 10, 2024, individuals who have duly filed Form I-90 will have their Green Card validity automatically extended by USCIS to 36 months.
• An increase in processing times for renewal applications is reflected in this modification.

The wording on Form I-90 receipt notices has been revised by USCIS to reflect the new 36-month validity term. For those renewing their Green Cards, this is crucial because the receipt notice and their expired card will demonstrate their continuous legal status.

Updated Receipt Notices and Proof of Status

On September 10, 2024, USCIS started printing updated receipt notices with the 36-month extension. These amended receipt letters will be used as proof of an individual's continuous status as a lawful permanent resident. The notice is required to prove eligibility for work or travel authorization, along with the expired Green Card.

• The new 36-month extension is included in the amended receipt notices.
• Verification of status and work authorization is provided by the revised receipt notification and the Green Card that has expired.

Don't panic if you have already received a receipt notice with a 24-month extension. An updated notice from USCIS will be sent to you, indicating the new 36-month term. Those who have pending Form I-90 applications will be subject to the revised language.

What If You No Longer Have Your Green Card?

For individuals who have misplaced their Green Cards, there is an extra choice. To make an appointment at a USCIS Field Office, get in touch with the USCIS Contact Center. You can ask for an Alien Documentation, Identification, and Telecommunications (ADIT) stamp when you get there. While your replacement card is being processed, this stamp can be used as a temporary verification of your status as a lawful permanent resident.

The new policy makes it easier for Green Card holders to renew their cards. While USCIS works through the longer-than-normal processing timeframes, it guarantees that their status is protected. The extended 36-month extension allows applicants to continue with their employment and travel schedules.

FAQS

Is there anything else I need to do to receive the 36-month extension?

No, assuming your Form I-90 renewal was correctly filed, the new 36-month extension will take effect immediately. You will get an amended receipt notice from USCIS that reflects this extension.

If I misplace my Green Card while I'm waiting for its renewal, what should I do?

You can make an appointment at a USCIS Field Office to obtain an Alien Documentation, Identification, and Telecommunications (ADIT) stamp if your Green Card is misplaced. This stamp acts as a temporary identity document.