Introduction:
Are you interested in learning about the i-90 form, the form you use to renew or replace your green card?
The i-90 form is essential for legal permanent residents who must update or replace their green card.
In this guide, we will take you through the entire process of filling out, sending, and monitoring your i-90 form.
You’ll also learn about the filing fees, processing times, and other details to make the process as smooth as possible.
What is the i-90 Form?
The i-90 form, also known as the “Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card,” is a document used by lawful permanent residents in the U.S. to request a replacement for their lost, stolen, or expired green card.
When you lose your green card or it is near expiration, the i-90 form is your best bet for obtaining a new one.
Submitting this form to USCIS keeps your legal status in place while your new card is being processed.
Who Must Submit the i-90 Form?
There are several circumstances under which you may need to submit the i-90 form:
Expired Green Card: Your permanent resident card has expired or is set to expire soon.
Lost or Stolen Card: Your green card is lost or stolen, and you require a replacement.
Name Change: You legally changed your name and want your green card to be changed.
Data Correction: The name on your green card is incorrectly spelled or contained, and you must correct this.
If any of these situations apply to you, filing the I-90 form will help you get a new, current green card.
How to Complete the i-90 Form
Completing the i-90 form is an easy process if you comply with the USCIS instructions.
Here’s a step-by-step analysis:
1) Section 1: Information About You: Enter your personal details, such as your name, date of birth, and address. Make sure everything matches your official records.
2) Section 2: Reason for Application: Indicate the reason you’re filing the form, whether it’s for a replacement card or to renew an expired one.
3) Section 3: Biographic Information: Fill in any necessary biographical information, including your gender, ethnicity, and marital status.
4) Section 4: Signature and Certification: Go over all of the information that you’ve provided, then sign and date the form to affirm that the information is correct.
i-90 Form Filing Fee
There is a filing fee for the i-90 form, something to be considered when applying.
Currently, the i-90 form filing fee is $540, which covers both the form filing fee and the biometric services fee.
The biometric services fee will be charged for fingerprinting and background checks.
Please verify the USCIS website for the latest fees, as these do vary over time.
How to File the i-90 Form
There are two principal methods for filing your i-90 form:
Online Submission: The most straightforward way to submit your i-90 form is via the USCIS website. This option allows you to monitor your application status in real-time and receive quicker feedback from USCIS.
Paper Submission: Alternatively, you can print the i-90 form, fill it out manually, and send it to the relevant USCIS address. Don’t forget to attach the right filing fee and supporting documentation.
i-90 Form Processing Time
One of the most common questions applicants have is, “How long will it take to get my new green card?”
Processing times for the i-90 form can vary depending on several factors, including:
Your location
The volume of applications USCIS is handling
Whether additional documentation or information is required
On average, your i-90 form will be processed in 6 to 12 months. However, processing may take longer during peak season or if your application has any issues.
USCIS Form i-90 Instructions: Things to Remember
Before you submit your i-90 form, it’s necessary to read the USCIS instructions thoroughly.
Below are a couple of things to remember:
Accuracy: Please ensure that all of your information is accurate and recent. Errors can delay processing time.
Supporting Documents: Depending on the reason for your filing, you might have to provide more documents, for example, a police report when the card is stolen or a marriage certificate to change your name.
Fee Payment: Make certain to pay the right filing fee and biometric services fee. USCIS will not process your application without the proper payment.
i-90 Form PDF: How to Locate It
You can download the i-90 form as a PDF from the USCIS website.
You can save the form, complete it offline, and file it either online or through the mail.
Make sure to use the latest version of the form to ensure timely processing.
Avoid These i-90 Form Mistakes.
Filing the i-90 form correctly is crucial to ensure your green card is replaced or renewed without any issues.
Here are some common mistakes to avoid:
Incomplete Information: Missing sections or incomplete forms can result in delays.
Incorrect Payment: Always double-check the current filing fees.
Wrong USCIS Office: Be sure to send your paper application to the correct USCIS address.
Tips for a Successful i-90 Form Submission
Making a successful submission of your i-90 form is essential to prevent any undue delays. The following are some tips for a hassle-free process:
Careful Review of the Form: Verify the details in your i-90 form carefully to ensure that all fields are filled accurately and in full.
Make Sure You Have the Proper Documentation: Depending on your case, such as a name change or lost card, ensure you attach the required supporting documents.
Keep a Copy of Your Filing: Whether you file online or by mail, always retain a copy of the I-90 form and any documents you filed for your records.
Pay the Right Fees: The filing fee and biometric services fee should be paid properly. Mispayment is a frequent cause of application delay.
Follow Up on Your Application: If you do not hear anything within the predicted processing time, you can look up the status of your i-90 form online using your USCIS account.
What Happens After You File the i-90 Form?
After you file your i-90 form, USCIS will mail you a receipt notice containing your case number and indicating that your application is being processed.
Here’s what happens after filing:
Receipt Notice: This is typically the first notice you will get from USCIS. Keep this notice safe, as it is crucial for monitoring your application.
Biometric Appointment: If it is applicable, USCIS will arrange a biometric appointment to take your photos and fingerprints. This is normally done at a local USCIS office.
Case Updates: USCIS will notify you of the status of your application. You can monitor your case status online using your case number.
Green Card Issuance: If all is well, USCIS will approve your i-90 application and send you your new green card.
How to Rush Your i-90 Form Application
There are some situations when you might need your green card immediately. Although i-90 form processing may take months, there are means to rush your application:
Emergency Situations: If you urgently need your green card, such as for travel or work, you can request expedited processing. USCIS only provides expedited processing under specific circumstances, so be prepared to submit proof of the urgency.
Reach Out to USCIS for Assistance: If you have not heard anything about your application after a considerable amount of time, you may want to contact USCIS to ask about your case status or seek help expediting your application.
Monitoring Your i-90 Form: How to Utilize the USCIS Case Status Tool
After submitting your i-90 form, you can monitor its status through the USCIS Case Status Tool.
Here’s how to monitor your application:
Visit the USCIS Website: Go to the official USCIS website and find the “Check Case Status” page.
Enter Your Case Number: You will receive your case number on the receipt notice that USCIS sent you after receiving your application.
Get Updates: Enter your case number, and the tool will give you real-time updates regarding the status of your application.
Monitoring your case keeps you up to date and allows you to take action if your application is delayed or has problems.
Can You Travel While Waiting for Your New Green Card?
It’s a question many ask: Can you travel abroad while your i-90 application is in process?
If you must travel while waiting for your new green card, you need to ensure you have the proper travel documents.
Travel on a Valid Passport: If you are traveling abroad, you can usually return to the U.S. using your passport and the i-90 receipt notice (if applicable). This receipt proves that your green card renewal or replacement is in process.
Reentry Permit: If you’re planning to be outside the U.S. for a long time, consider applying for a reentry permit to avoid issues with reentry.
Always check with USCIS or an immigration attorney to make sure you’re doing everything you need to do.
Understanding the i-90 Form for Conditional Green Card Holders
If you hold a conditional green card (valid for two years), renewing or replacing it might be a little different.
Conditional permanent residents need to submit the Form I-751, Petition to Remove Conditions on Residence, to renew or remove conditions on their green card.
However, if your conditional green card has been stolen or lost, you might still need to file the i-90 form to renew it.
Final Thoughts on the i-90 Form
Processing the i-90 form doesn’t have to be complicated or frustrating.
If you follow the instructions, submit all the necessary documents, and pay the right fees, you should be able to renew or replace your green card without much of a problem.
Remember, filing your I-90 form is an essential step to preserving your status as a lawful permanent resident.
By understanding the process, managing your submission correctly, and staying proactive with tracking, you’ll ensure a smooth experience with USCIS.
Good luck with your green card renewal or replacement process!
What to Do if Your i-90 Form is Denied
It’s uncommon, but occasionally your i-90 form may be rejected. This may be due to many reasons, including missing information, invalid documents, or a problem with the filing fee.
What to do if your i-90 form is rejected:
Read the Denial Notice: USCIS will mail you a notice stating the reason your application was rejected. Read the letter carefully to see what happened.
Correct the Problems: If the denial was because of missing documents or form errors, collect the necessary information and correct your application.
Appeal the Decision: If you feel that the denial was an error, you might have the ability to appeal the decision or make a motion to reopen your case. Talk to an immigration lawyer for advice.
Refile the i-90 Form: In some cases, the best thing to do is to correct your initial application and refile. Make sure all the necessary documents and fees are submitted this time.
Taking the initiative and taking care of things right away will prevent delays in receiving your green card.
Green Card Renewal and Replacement with the i-90 Form
It’s crucial to distinguish between renewing and replacing your green card.
Green Card Renewal: If your green card is nearing expiration (or has already expired), you will need to file the i-90 form to renew it. This allows you to reissue your card with updated information.
Green Card Replacement: If your green card is lost, stolen, mutilated, or contains incorrect data, you must file the i-90 form to replace it.
In both instances, the procedure uses the same i-90 form but is differentiated by the reason for filing to indicate if it’s a renewal or replacement.
Tips on How to Prevent Delays in Your i-90 Application
The earlier you apply for your i-90 form, the sooner you’ll receive your green card renewal or replacement. However, there are a few things that can be done to prevent delays:
Submit the Correct Form: Make sure you’re using the most current version of the i-90 form. USCIS frequently updates its forms, and using outdated forms can delay your application.
Ensure All Required Documents Are Submitted: Double-check that you’re submitting all the necessary documentation along with your form. Missing documents can cause delays or result in the rejection of your application.
Pay the Right Fee: Ensure that you’re paying the right filing fee. A wrong payment will delay the processing of your application.
File Your Application Early: The sooner you file your i-90 form, the better. Green card renewals and replacements may take a few months, so don’t procrastinate.
By doing these steps, you can essentially minimize the chances of running into delays in the i-90 process.
Monitoring Your Biometrics Appointment
Another critical aspect of the i-90 process is the biometrics appointment. This appointment includes fingerprinting and photographing you, which is required for background checks.
Here’s what to anticipate:
Receiving Your Appointment Notice: After USCIS receives your i-90 form, they will send you a notice with information about your biometrics appointment. This normally occurs a few weeks after receiving your application.
Going to the Appointment: Make sure to go to the appointment at the specified place. Not going to the appointment may lead to delays, so put it on your calendar and bring the necessary identification.
Biometrics Completion: Once your biometrics are captured, USCIS will run the background checks. This is a critical component of the application process and will take some time.
Once your biometrics have been processed, USCIS will proceed with the processing of your i-90 application.
Can I Work Pending My New Green Card?
If you are a lawful permanent resident, you have nothing to worry about when it comes to working pending your new green card.
If Your Green Card Has Expired: Provided that you’ve submitted the i-90 form and are waiting for your new card, you remain a lawful permanent resident, and you can legally continue to work in the U.S.
Employment Authorization Document (EAD): In certain instances, if you must establish your legal status for employment purposes, you can submit an application for an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) as temporary evidence pending your new green card.
Remember to file your i-90 form in a timely manner and retain a copy of the receipt notice as evidence of your application status.
How to Contact USCIS to Assist with Your i-90 Form
Should you encounter any difficulties in filling out your i-90 form or require assistance with monitoring your application, you may contact USCIS directly.
Below is how you can get in touch with them:
USCIS Website: The USCIS website offers extensive resources and guides on filling out the i-90 form and monitoring the status of your application.
Call USCIS Customer Service: If you have particular questions, you can call USCIS at their customer service line. Have your case number and other information handy when you call.
Submit an Inquiry: If you have problems getting your green card, you can submit a case inquiry online to ask for help.
Why Choose Syed Professional Services?
Syed Professional Services is a reliable choice for those who need assistance with immigration and paperwork. They provide specialized and personalized services and ensure the paperwork is properly filed to avoid errors or delays.
What Can Syed Professional Services Do for You with the I-90 Form?
I-90 application is used to request a renewal or replacement of the green card (Permanent Resident Card). Syed Professional Services can assist as follows:
Guidance: They can give detailed advice on how to complete the I-90 form properly.
Document Preparation: They will assist in compiling and preparing the documents to be submitted, so that everything necessary is sent.
Filing: They can process your I-90 form filing with the concerned government department (USCIS).
Follow-up: They will track the progress of your application and assist in resolving any problems that arise during processing.
