In a significant update for lawful permanent residents (LPRs) in the United States, the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) announced that it will automatically extend the validity of Green Cards for up to 36 months for those who have pending renewal applications. This change, effective September 10, 2024, aims to alleviate challenges faced by LPRs as processing times for renewal applications increase.
Key Changes to Green Card Validity
Effective from the specified date, any LPR who submits Form I-90, the Application to Replace a Permanent Resident Card, will have their Green Card’s validity automatically extended for 36 months past the expiration date. This extension begins on the day following the expiration of the card, providing residents with continued legal status and the ability to travel and work without interruption.
Previously, USCIS allowed for a 24-month extension. The newly revised process reflects the agency’s awareness of the complications longer processing times can create for LPRs whose Green Cards are either expiring or have already expired.
New Documentation and Evidence of Status
As part of this update, USCIS has modified the receipt notices issued after an I-90 application is filed. The revised notices will explicitly state that they provide evidence of lawful permanent resident status for a period of 36 months, along with the expired Green Card. The language will specifically indicate:
“This notice, together with your Form I-551, Permanent Resident Card (also known as the Green Card), provides evidence of your lawful permanent resident status for 36 months from the expiration date on the front of your Permanent Resident Card. You remain authorized to work and travel.”
LPRs are advised to retain both their original expired Green Card and the Form I-797 receipt notice when presenting evidence of their status for employment or travel.
Addressing Processing Delays
The extension of the Green Card validity period comes in response to longer than expected processing times for I-90 applications. USCIS aims to minimize the challenges faced by LPRs, especially those who are navigating job opportunities or planning international travel. The automatic validity extension is a proactive measure to ensure that LPRs do not face undue hardship due to administrative delays.
What to Do if You Lose Your Green Card
It’s important to note that the new 36-month validity extension specifically applies to LPRs renewing expired or expiring Green Cards. Those who lose their cards and require evidence of permanent resident status should not rely solely on the extension. Instead, they should contact the USCIS Contact Center to request an appointment at a local USCIS field office. In such cases, USCIS may issue an Alien Documentation, Identification, and Telecommunications (ADIT) stamp in the individual’s passport as temporary evidence of their permanent resident status.
Conclusion
The USCIS’s decision to automatically extend the validity of Green Cards to 36 months marks a significant improvement in the experience of lawful permanent residents navigating renewal processes. This change not only provides much-needed flexibility and assurance to LPRs but also highlights the agency’s commitment to addressing the realities of increased processing times. By ensuring that green card holders maintain their rights to work and travel without interruption, USCIS is fostering a more supportive environment for permanent residents across the nation. LPRs are urged to stay informed about these updates and to utilize the resources available through USCIS to manage their residency status effectively.