Renew Green Card Cost: What Fees to Expect 

Renewing your green card is an essential part of maintaining your permanent resident status, and while the green card renewal cost and process is fairly straightforward, it’s important to plan ahead. The filing fee, biometrics fee, and potential additional costs can add up.

In this blog post, we’ll break down exactly how much it costs to renew a green card, explain how to renew a green card online, and provide a simple overview of the entire green card renewal process.

When you need a green card renewal

A green card (Permanent Resident Card) allows you to live and work in the U.S. as a permanent resident. Non-conditional green cards are generally only valid for up to 10 years, after which they will expire and need to be renewed. 

To maintain your legal status, you will need to follow the green card renewal process, which can be completed by mail or online (which is the most efficient option).

What happens if you don’t renew your green card on time?

If you don’t renew your green card before it expires, you could face potential issues. 

• Travel: You may face difficulties traveling internationally without a valid green card.
• Legal Risks: You may face some difficulties with proving your status as a permanent resident especially for certain government benefits.

How much does it cost to renew a green card?

If you need to renew your green card, the cost includes several associated fees. 

1. Filing fee for Form I-90

Form I-90 is the application form you’ll need to fill out to officially start the renewal process. As of 2025, the fee for submitting Form I-90 is $465 ($415 if filed online). This fee covers the processing of your application for green card renewal.

2. Biometrics fee

The biometrics fees cover the fingerprinting, photo, and signature collection needed to verify your identity. The biometrics fee is typically $85. If you’re under 14 or over 79 years old, you may be exempt from this fee.

3. Legal fees (optional)

If you choose to hire an immigration lawyer to help with your renewal, their services will add to the green card renewal cost. Lawyer fees can range depending on complexity but generally fall between $1,500 to $2,5000 or more. If you need assistance, you can request a consultation from Manifest Law.

How to renew green card online

USCIS offers an online application system, which allows you to renew your green card online, which makes the green card renewal process more convenient and faster. 

Here’s how it works:

Step 1: Create an account on USCIS – Go to the USCIS website and create an online account if you don’t yet have one. This is where you’ll submit Form I-90 application and track the status of your green card renewal.

Step 2: Complete Form I-90 – Once you’re logged in, you’ll fill out Form I-90 online.

Step 3: Pay the fees – You can pay the green card costs (filing fee + biometrics fee) directly through your USCIS account using a credit card or bank transfer.

Step 4: Submit your application – After you’ve filled out the form and paid the fees, submit your application. You’ll receive a confirmation and a receipt number that you can use to track your green card renewal status.

Step 5: Attend biometrics appointment – If needed, you’ll receive a notice for an appointment at a local USCIS office.

How to renew green card by mail

If you prefer to renew your green card by mail, follow the steps below:

Step 1: Complete Form I-90 – You can download Form I-90 on the USCIS website. Form I-90 requires you to provide your personal information, your green card details, and the reason for renewal (e.g., your card is expiring).

Step 2: Pay the fees – You’ll need to submit the renewal green card costs along with your application. These fees can be paid via check, money order, or credit card if you’re submitting Form I-90 by mail.

Step 3: Submit your application – Mail your Form I-90 along with any required supporting documents to the appropriate USCIS address. 

Be sure to check the USCIS website under the section “Where to file” for the latest address, as it can change based on where you live.

Step 4: Attend biometrics appointment – If needed, you’ll receive a notice for an appointment at a local USCIS office.

FAQs

Can I avoid paying the green card renewal fees?

Unfortunately, you cannot avoid paying the green card renewal fees if you are required to renew your green card. However, if you have a financial hardship, there are certain scenarios where you might be eligible for a fee waiver (explained below), but this is only available under specific conditions.

Can I use a fee waiver?

USCIS generally doesn’t offer a fee waiver for the standard  green card renewal costs (Form I-90 filing fee and biometrics fee). If you believe you may qualify for a fee waiver, we recommend requesting a consultation with Manifest Law where an experienced immigration lawyer can check your eligibility.

How long does it take to renew a green card?

Green card renewal can take anywhere from 6 to 12 months although processing times can exceed 12 months due to government backlogs. While this timeline can vary depending on your specific case and which USCIS office handles your application, it’s recommended to start the green card renewal process at least 6 months before your green card expires.

Can I renew my green card from outside the US?

No, you cannot renew your green card while you’re outside the U.S. If you’re outside the country and your green card is about to expire, you’ll need to apply for a travel document to return to the U.S.