Your Permanent Resident Card proves you are allowed to be in the country. It is also known as a Green Card. Make sure it is correct and up to date. If you are 18 years old or more, you must always carry it. If the police stop you, they could cause you problems if you do not have your card, or if it is not correct. It can also cause problems if you want to travel or get a new job.
Sometimes you will need to renew or replace your card.
Why should you replace your green card?
- It has errors
- Your details are out of date
- It is damaged, stolen or lost
- You got permanent residency before you were 14
Why should you renew your green card?
- It has expired
- It will expire within half a year
- You now have permanent, instead of temporary status
The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) suggest you renew your green card if it does not have a date of expiry. They say the newer cards have better security. You do not have to, though.
There is a fee for renewing or replacing. Currently, you have to pay the USCIS $450.
New cards are valid for 10 years unless it is a conditional one; those are only valid for two years.
Getting your application correct is crucial. An immigration attorney can help. They can tell you what documents you need to show. They can ensure you fill in the form correctly. If there are any problems with your applications, they can help too.