How Long Does a Permanent Green Card Last?

The permanent green card, officially known as a Permanent Resident Card, is crucial for non-citizens living in the U.S. It grants the holder the right to reside and work in the country indefinitely. However, while the status itself is permanent, the physical card is not.

Permanent green cards are typically valid for 10 years from the date of issuance. This means that while the residency status does not expire, the card itself needs to be renewed every 10 years. The renewal process is relatively straightforward but requires the cardholder to apply for a replacement before the current card expires.

The need for renewal arises for several reasons: updating personal information, ensuring security features remain up-to-date, and keeping the cardholder’s status current in the U.S. immigration system. The renewal application should be submitted to the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), and it's advisable to start the process about six months before the card expires to avoid any potential issues with expired documentation.

For those who have been married to a U.S. citizen and received a green card through marriage, the situation may be slightly different. Initially, these green cards are conditional and valid for only 2 years. To remove the conditions and receive a permanent green card, the cardholder must file a petition with USCIS within the 90-day window before the card’s expiration.

The green card renewal process involves completing Form I-90, Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card, and submitting it along with the required documentation and fees. Biometrics appointments might also be necessary, where fingerprints and photographs are taken for background checks.

It's essential to keep the green card up-to-date and renew it on time to avoid complications. An expired green card does not affect one's permanent resident status but can create issues in proving the status, especially when traveling or applying for employment.

Maintaining your green card status involves adhering to U.S. residency requirements. Spending extended periods outside the U.S. or failing to meet the residency requirements could jeopardize your permanent resident status. Therefore, it's crucial to stay informed about the responsibilities that come with holding a green card and to act promptly when it comes time to renew it.

In summary, while the green card grants permanent residency, the card itself needs to be renewed every 10 years. This process ensures that the information remains accurate and the card's security features are up-to-date, allowing permanent residents to continue their life in the U.S. without interruption.