Green Card Renewal Attorney in Austin: Renew or Replace Your Green Card (Form I-90)
Most green cards expire after 10 years. Your permanent resident status does not expire with the card, but an expired card can cost you a job offer, a driver's license renewal, or an easy trip back through the airport. Form I-90, Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card, is how you renew a card that is expiring or replace one that was lost, stolen, damaged, or issued with a mistake.
For more than 20 years, the Law Offices of Michael Ponder has helped permanent residents in Austin and throughout Texas renew and replace their green cards, in English and Spanish. We prepare and file your I-90 for you, and before we do, we review your history for anything that could cause a problem.
Who Files Form I-90
Your 10 year green card has expired or will expire in the next six months
Your card was lost, stolen, or destroyed
Your card is damaged
You legally changed your name or other information after the card was issued
Your card has incorrect information on it
USCIS mailed your card but you never received it
You received your card before your 14th birthday and you have now turned 14
Is Your Card Valid for Only Two Years? Do Not File an I-90
If your green card is valid for two years, you are a conditional resident. A two year card is not renewed with Form I-90. Instead, you remove the conditions with Form I-751, filed during the 90 days before the card expires. Filing the wrong form wastes months and can put your status at risk. Learn more on our I-751 page.
Why Talk to a Lawyer Before You Renew
A green card renewal looks like a simple form, and for many people it is. But every I-90 includes fingerprints and a background check, and USCIS looks at your file again. Talk to us before you file if any of these apply to you:
You have been arrested, charged, or convicted of any offense since you became a permanent resident, even if the case was dismissed
You spent six months or more outside the United States on a single trip
You lived outside the United States or filed taxes as a nonresident
You ever claimed to be a U.S. citizen or registered to vote
There may have been a problem with how you got your green card
In these situations, a renewal can lead to hard questions, a denial, or even a referral to immigration court. We review your history first so there are no surprises.
Should You Apply for Citizenship Instead?
If you have been a permanent resident for five years, or for three years while married to and living with a U.S. citizen, you may be eligible to become a citizen. Citizens never renew a green card again. We will tell you whether renewing, applying for citizenship, or doing both makes the most sense for you. Visit our citizenship page to learn more.
What Happens After You File
Receipt notice: When you file to renew, USCIS sends a receipt notice that extends your green card for 36 months past the expiration date. Carry the notice with your card as proof of your status and your permission to work.
Biometrics: USCIS may schedule a fingerprint and photo appointment or reuse your earlier fingerprints.
Lost card: If you have no card to show, we can help you request a temporary stamp in your passport as proof of your status while you wait.
Processing time: Many I-90 applications take several months to a year or more.
How We Help
Confirm that Form I-90 is the right form for your situation
Review your immigration and criminal history before USCIS does
Prepare and file your I-90 and follow it until your new card arrives
Help you get temporary proof of status for work or travel
Respond to requests for evidence and prepare you for any interview
Plan your path to U.S. citizenship
Common Questions
My green card expired. Am I still a permanent resident? Yes. Your status does not end when your card expires. You still need a valid card to prove your status, so file to renew as soon as you can.
How early can I renew? You can file up to six months before the expiration date on your card.
Can I work with an expired green card? Your expired card together with your I-90 receipt notice shows that you can work. Employers can accept them together.
Can I travel while my I-90 is pending? Usually, yes, if you carry your expired card with the receipt notice that extends it. If you have spent long periods abroad or have any criminal history, talk to us before you travel.
Not a permanent resident yet? Please visit our dedicated page on obtaining a green card for more information.
Start With a Free Guidance Session
Every situation is different. Schedule a free 15 minute guidance session to talk through yours, or book a full consultation for detailed legal advice. Call or text (512) 300-0810.