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, especially if you are planning to use your Green Card for travel. The filing 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 (officially known as a permanent resident card) allows you to live and work in the U.S. as a permanent resident. Most Green Cards are generally valid for 10 years, after which they will expire and need to be renewed.

You should begin the renewal process at least six months before your Green Card expires. Green Card renewal processing times can be long, so this allows ample time to receive your new card in the mail and avoid any issues that can come with an expired Green Card.

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 some 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.
• Employment: Your employer might require you to have a valid and current Green Card. 

How much does it cost to renew a Green Card?

If you need to renew your Green Card, the cost includes several associated fees. Note that as of October 2025, USCIS is no longer accepting checks or money orders (with limited exceptions), so be prepared to make a credit card or ACH payment for your Green Card renewal costs. 

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 2026, the fee for submitting Form I-90 is $465 by mail and $415 if filed online. This fee covers the processing of your application for Green Card renewal and biometrics. (As of April 1, 2025, USCIS no longer has a separate biometrics fee.)

2. 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 start at around $1,500.

How to renew your Green Card online

USCIS has an online application system that allows you to renew your Green Card online, making the renewal process more convenient and faster. 

Here’s how it works:

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.
2. Complete Form I-90. Once you’re logged in, you’ll fill out Form I-90 online.
3. Pay the fees. You can pay the Green Card costs directly through your USCIS account using a credit card.
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.
5. Attend biometrics appointment. If needed, you’ll receive a notice for an appointment at a local USCIS office.

How to renew your Green Card by mail

If you prefer to renew your Green Card by mail, follow the steps below:

• 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).
• Pay the fees. You’ll need to submit the renewal Green Card costs along with your application. These fees can be paid via credit card, debit card, or prepaid card, or with a direct bank transfer.
• 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.
• Attend biometrics appointment. If needed, you’ll receive a notice for an appointment at a local USCIS office.

FAQs about Green Card renewal costs

Where can I find the Green Card renewal application?

You can find Form I-90 on the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services website. USCIS provides both an online version and a downloadable PDF. If you prefer the online process, you’ll complete and submit the form through your USCIS account. If you’re mailing your application, you’ll print and fill out the PDF version instead.

Can I avoid paying the Green Card renewal fees?

Unfortunately, most people 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). 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 six 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 six 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. 

What supporting documents do I need to get a new Green Card?

Most applicants need to submit a copy of their current Green Card. If your card is lost, stolen, or damaged, you’ll include any evidence you have of your status, such as a photocopy of the card, your passport biographic page, or a government-issued ID. USCIS may request additional documents depending on why you’re renewing or replacing your card. Always review the instructions listed on Form I-90 so you include everything required for your specific situation.