How Long Does It Take to Renew a Green Card?

If you live and work in Indiana, you may be worried about the time it takes to renew your green card, for fear of losing your job or being forced to leave the U.S.

If you have concerns about green card renewal, processing times, or costs in 2026, contact Zaki Ali, Trial Lawyers, to discuss your legal options. Our law firm has extensive experience helping clients navigate immigration matters and is ready to assist you when you need it most. 

When to Renew and Current Processing Times (2026)

Permanent residents should file Form I-90 within six months of their green card’s expiration. You may also file Form I-90 if your card is lost, damaged, or contains errors. Conditional residents must file Form I-751 within 90 days before the card expires. You can still file Form 1-90 if your green card has already expired, and there is no penalty for late filing. As of early 2026, the typical processing time for an I-90 is 8 to 14 months, which can vary depending on the location of the USCIS service center or field office. USCIS provides estimated processing times on its website (egov.uscis.gov/processing-times), so you should have an idea of current wait times to plan accordingly when seeking to renew your green card.

Step-by-Step Guide to the Green Card Renewal Process

If you need to renew your green card, following the proper steps can help ensure the process goes smoothly.

Step 1: Gather Required Documents

Your first step should be to gather all required documents, including:

• Current or expired green card. If your card is lost, try to bring a copy if available.
• A government-issued photo ID.
• Provide any legal name change documentation, such as a marriage certificate or court order.
• Two 2×2-inch passport-style photos.

If applicable to your case, bring a copy of the police report documenting that your card was lost or stolen. 

Step 2: Complete Form I-90 Online or by Mail

For faster processing, it is recommended that you file through the USCIS website (myaccount.uscis.gov). An added benefit of filing online is that it also immediately provides a tracking number. 

If you choose to use a paper application, you must mail it to the USCIS lockbox facility listed on the I-90 instructions. 

Step 3: Pay the Filing Fee

The next step is to pay the filing fee, which is currently $465 plus an $85 biometrics fee, for a total of $550.

Those who meet income requirements may be eligible to file Form I-912, requesting a 

fee waiver.

Step 4: Receive Your Receipt Notice (Form I-797)

Approximately two to four weeks after you submit your application, you will receive a Form I-797 Notice of Action, an official USCIS document confirming receipt of your application. The receipt notice can be used to track your case status, provide the priority date, and serves as evidence that your request is pending. 

If your green card has expired, you should keep the receipt notice with you at all times. The notice serves as proof of your application and extends your green card for 24 months from its expiration date. 

Step 5: Attend Biometrics Appointment (if required)

Another crucial step in renewing your green card is attending a biometrics appointment at the Indianapolis Application Support Center (ASC) to verify your fingerprints, photo, and signature. 

Although USCIS has frequently reused biometrics, in 2026, you should be prepared to attend an in-person appointment to verify your information. Lately, there has been a stronger push to ensure that the person seeking to renew their green card is the same individual who was originally granted permanent residency and has not committed crimes that endanger public safety.

Step 6: Wait for Your New Green Card

After you have completed your biometrics appointment, the application advances to the adjudication stage until an immigration officer makes their final decision. During “pending adjudication,” you can check the status of your application online using your receipt number. 

If your application is approved, your new green card will be mailed via USPS to your address on file with the USCIS.

What to Do If Your Green Card Expires While Waiting for Renewal

One of the most common worries for green card holders is what will happen if their card expires while awaiting renewal. Under federal law, you are still considered a lawful permanent resident even if your card has expired. 

The I-797 receipt notice, combined with your expired green card, is sufficient proof needed for domestic travel and I-9 employment verification. If you need to travel internationally, you will need an I-551 ADIT stamp on your passport, which you can request from your local USCIS field office, as temporary proof of your permanent resident status. 

Can You Expedite Green Card Renewal?

Although the USCIS does allow expedited requests, they are granted if specific circumstances apply:

• USCIS error
• Emergencies
• Severe financial loss
• Humanitarian reasons

If any of these scenarios apply to your situation, you can file an expedited request through your online USCIS account or by calling the USCIS Contact Center (1-800-375-5283)

Another option is to contact your Senator or U.S. Representative to request an inquiry on your behalf.

Realistically, most expedited requests are denied unless there is a well-documented and urgent need, such as international travel due to a family emergency or the risk of job loss. 

One of the most effective steps is to consult an immigration attorney who can help prepare a strong expedite request.

Common Mistakes and How Zaki Ali Trial Lawyers Can Help

Common errors can cause unnecessary delays in renewing your green card, including:

• Filing too early, more than six months before the green card is set to expire
• Filing the wrong form (I-751 vs. I-90)
• Filing an application that has incorrect information or is incomplete 
• Failing to sign the application
• Missing a biometrics appointment without rescheduling
• Failing to update your address with the USCIS either online or by using Form AR-11
• Submitting an incorrect filing fee 

While for most green card holders, renewal is relatively straightforward, complications such as extended absences from the U.S. and a criminal history can make matters more difficult. 

Zaki Ali, Trial Lawyers, proudly serves the Anderson, Indiana immigration community and assists with green card renewals, 1-90 filings, and other related matters. Our legal team understands the unique needs of immigrant communities in Central Indiana and Madison County.  Contact 833-ZAKI-ALI (1-833-925-4254) today to schedule a consultation.