Green Card Renewal Processing Times in May 2026
As of June 2026, Green Card renewals take approximately 10.5 months to process. However, keep in mind that wait periods can vary based on the number of applications received by USCIS, additional security checks, and the completeness of your application.
| Green Card Category | Processing Times |
| 10-year renewal | 10.5 months |
Visit our USCIS Processing Times page to see the current wait period for all U.S. visas.
How to speed up Green Card renewal processing time
If you need your Green Card renewed quickly due to an urgent situation, you can request expedited processing. This option is available under specific circumstances, such as severe financial loss, emergencies, or humanitarian reasons.
To apply for expedited processing, you will need to provide detailed evidence supporting your request. If approved, this can significantly reduce the Green Card renewal processing time.
Green Card renewal requirements
To renew your Green Card, you must currently hold a valid Green Card, and it’s recommended to apply for renewal six months before your card’s expiration date.
Along with the renewal application, you will need to provide additional documents, including:
- A copy of your current Green Card
- A copy of a government-issued ID, especially if your card is lost or expired
- Any name change documents, if you’ve had one, such as after a marriage or divorce
- Certified English translations of any documents in a different language
- Two passport-sized photos meeting USCIS specifications, if requested
How to renew your Green Card (step-by-step)
Step 1: Submit Form I-90
To start the renewal process, fill out and submit Form I-90 (Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card) with USCIS either online or by mail. This is the official application to renew your Green Card.
Filing I-90 online: Log in or create a myUSCIS account. Then you can complete Form I-90, upload the necessary documents, and pay the filing fee. Filing Form I-90 online allows you to track your application’s progress and receive updates directly.
Filing I-90 by mail: Download Form I-90 from USCIS and fill it out completely. Attach all required documents and the correct form for fee payment—G-1450 for credit and debit card or G-1650 for ACH bank payment. Mail everything to the address listed in the instructions.
Step 2: Receipt notice from USCIS
Once USCIS receives and accepts your renewal application, you should get a Form I-797C receipt notice within one to three weeks. This notice confirms that your application has been received. It includes a unique receipt number that you can use to track your case online through the USCIS Case Status tool.
Your I-797C receipt notice automatically extends the validity of your expired Green Card for 36 months beyond its printed expiration date. You can use your expired Green Card together with the receipt notice as temporary proof of your lawful permanent resident status and employment authorization.
Step 3: Your biometrics appointment
Around four to six weeks after receiving your receipt notice, USCIS will send you a notice to schedule a biometrics appointment, where your digital fingerprints will be taken. This notice will provide the date, time, and location for your biometrics appointment, where your digital fingerprints will be taken.
Your biometrics appointment will usually be scheduled about two weeks after you receive the appointment notice. On the day of your appointment, bring a valid ID and the biometrics appointment notice.
Step 4: Receive your new Green Card
After your biometrics appointment, USCIS will continue processing your Green Card renewal application. It currently takes USCIS 10.5 months to process 80% of I-90 forms that are filed.
Some situations have different Green Card renewal processes:
| Situation | What You Need to Do |
| You’re applying for a fee waiver. | You must file Form I-90 by mail along with your waiver petition. |
| Your Green Card expires while you’re traveling outside the U.S. | Before filing Form I-90, contact the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate, or explain your situation at a U.S. port of entry when you return. |
| You have a 2-year conditional Green Card. | Don’t file I-90. You need to use a different process to remove conditions from your Green Card. |
How to check your Green Card renewal status
To check the status of your Green Card renewal, go to the USCIS Case Status Online page and enter your receipt number, which you received after submitting your Green Card renewal application.
| 💡 Manifest tip: You can create a USCIS online account to get notifications about your case to stay up-to-date during the process. |
What to do if your Green Card renewal is denied
If your Green Card renewal application is denied, you’ll get a notice explaining why. It’s important to read this notice carefully to understand the reasons behind the denial.
Once you know why your application was denied, you can explore your options. In some cases, you might be able to file an appeal, a motion to reopen, or a motion to reconsider the decision.
If you’ve been denied, it’s a good idea to speak with an experienced immigration attorney. They will know the right way to respond to USCIS and how to maximize your chance for an approved Green Card renewed.
Request a free consultation with Manifest Law for help navigating your Green Card renewal.
FAQs about Green Card renewal
Why is my Green Card renewal taking so long?
It’s frustrating, but USCIS processing times for Green Card renewals can stretch for months or even over a year. That doesn’t mean anything is wrong with your application or that your renewal will be denied. In many cases, USCIS may have a high volume of applications or need time to do background checks. While you wait, double-check that you submitted all documents and keep an eye on your case status to help avoid further delays.
What if my Green Card expires while waiting for renewal?
If your Green Card expires while you are waiting for your renewal, you still have lawful permanent resident status, but things like traveling or finding a new job might be challenging. You can use your USCIS receipt notice (Form I-797C) as proof of your pending renewal when needed. If you need immediate proof of status (such as for urgent travel or a new job), you can request a temporary I-551 (ADIT) stamp by requesting an appointment through the USCIS Contact Center (1-800-375-5283) or through your myUSCIS online account.
Can I travel while waiting for my Green Card renewal?
Yes, you can travel while your Green Card renewal is pending. However, you must carry your expired Green Card along with your USCIS receipt notice (Form I-797C) to reenter the United States. This combination serves as proof of your ongoing status as a permanent resident and your pending renewal application.
Do I need to renew if I’m applying for citizenship?
If you are eligible for naturalization, you may not need to renew your Green Card first. However, you should still bring your card to the naturalization interview.
