What is Form I-90?

Form I-90 is used by permanent residents to apply for a replacement green card, mostly in cases of card expiry, card loss, card damage, or changes in biographical details like changing name or other basic information. You can also use this form if you have received an incorrect card due to a Department of Homeland Security error.

How Long Does It Take for Form I-90 to Be Approved?

The processing time can change on many factors like your location and USCIS case volume, but on average, it may take between 8 to 14 months. Recently, USCIS started issuing an automatic 36-month extension on green cards while Form I-90 applications are pending, so applicants can work and travel during the wait.

According to USCIS estimates 80% of the forms are processed within 28 months if you are renewing and 23 months if you are replacing the card. You can get a temporary proof while you wait for your residence card.

How to Get Permanent Residency in the USA

Permanent residency is granted through below factors:

  1. Family sponsorship: A close relative who is a green card holder can easily sponsor you.
  2.  Employment: If you get a permanent job in the US, or if you are working as an immigrant worker or investor.
  3.  Refugee/asylum:  You can be eligible if you have a refugee status or have participated in humanitarian programs.
  4. Diversity Visa Program: You can also get it if you have participated in a lottery program by the state department.
  5. Extraordinary Ability: you can be eligible if you have extraordinary ability in the field of science, tech, art, business, or you have amazing entrepreneurial abilities.
  6.  Applicants must submit Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence, or Adjust Status if already in the U.S.​

What is an I-90 Receipt?

Once you submit Form I-90, you receive an I-797C receipt notice, which is a proof that USCIS has received your application. This notice is paired with your expired green card and it serves as proof of your permanent resident status for the 36 month extension period. During that time the USCIS has to check the completeness of the application and make necessary security checks. You can also travel with the receipt meaning you can re-enter the US with the card.

“Where Did You Apply for Your Immigrant Visa or Adjustment of Status?” on Form I-90

Asking where you originally applied for permanent residency, whether in the U.S. or through a U.S. consulate abroad. If you applied within the U.S., you would have done so via an “adjustment of status.” If you applied at a consulate, select “Consular Processing”​

What is the I-90 Immigration Fee?

The total cost for filing Form I-90 is $415, plus there is an additional $85 biometrics fee, which becomes a total of $465 for most applicants. However, some categories, such as those with USCIS errors on the green card, may qualify for a fee waiver.

Where Can I Get Form I-90?

You can download Form I-90 from the official USCIS website or request it by mail from USCIS. The form is also available for online filing through the USCIS portal, which provides status updates and direct communication with USCIS​.

How long is a Green Card Good For?

A standard green card is valid for ten years. Conditional permanent resident cards, often issued to individuals with residency based on marriage or investment, they are valid for two years, after which residents must apply to remove conditions and obtain a full green card.​ For permanent green card, a resident can apply in the same way as explained above.

Can I Get a Green Card After Being in the U.S. for 10 Years?

While simply residing in the U.S. for ten years doesn’t qualify you for a green card, in such cases you may be eligible under “cancellation of removal” if you can demonstrate continuous residence for at least ten years, display good character; pay your taxes, stay away from criminal activities, and that removal would cause extreme hardship to a U.S. citizen family member.

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