By: Ujwala Bagal

United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has begun extending the validity period of Legal Permanent Resident Cards (Green Cards) renewal receipts to 24 months. The extension applies to individuals who file Form I-90, Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card, to renew an expired or expiring Green Card. Prior to the new policy, receipts for Form I-90 Green Card extensions were valid for a period of 12 months. The 24-month automatic extension begin on September 26.

RECEIPT NOTICES

Any Form I-90 receipt notice printed after the start date will reflect the new 24-month validity period. USCIS will issue amended notices for applicable individuals with pending Form I-90.

PROOF OF LAWFUL PERMANENT STATUS

The extension aims to combat longer processing times and hopes to help applicants have proof of their lawful permanent resident status while they wait adjudication of their pending applications. Receipt notices presented along with an expired Green Card can be used as evidence of legal status.

It is essential that all Green Card recipients have proof of lawful permanent resident status. Individuals who no longer have their Green Card and are still waiting for a replacement to arrive should contact their attorney for case specific information. Under some circumstances, after filing Form I-90, the individual may need to visit a USCIS Field Office to receive an Alien Documentation, Identification, and Telecommunications (ADIT) stamp.

CONCLUSION

For additional general information regarding replacing and renewing green cards, please visit the official USCIS replace your Green Card webpage. For case specific questions and help renewing or replacing your Green Card, contact your trusted Chugh, LLP immigration team.