How to Use Form I-90 to Replace Your Green Card Before Naturalizing

What is Form I-90 and who should use it?

The I-90 is designed for those who have a ten-year permanent resident card. It serves both to renew it and to request a replacement. It applies, for example, when the card is expired or will expire within the next six months.

Likewise, it should be used if the document is an old model without an expiration date. In that case, USCIS recommends requesting a new card immediately.

In what cases should you renew or replace your green card?

According to information published by USCIS, the I-90 also applies if the card was stolen, lost, or damaged. Similarly, it can be used to correct errors in personal information or register a legal name change.

Additionally, it can be used if the card never reached the resident’s hands. On the other hand, there is an additional situation related to the applicant’s age.

If a resident obtained the green card before turning 14 years old, they must replace it upon reaching that age. Before starting the process, USCIS recommends using its citizenship eligibility tool. That tool confirms whether the person can already begin the naturalization process.

Does the naturalization process eliminate the need to renew the card?

Not completely. Filing Form N-400 does not eliminate the obligation to prove permanent resident status. However, there is an important exception for those who have already started that process.

The receipt notice for the N-400 automatically extends the validity of an expired green card. That extension lasts 24 months, according to USCIS on its official website. Therefore, many applicants do not need to file the I-90 as well.

What forms do conditional residents use?

Conditional permanent residents should not use Form I-90. Instead, those who received a card with a two-year validity follow a different procedure.

Situation	Corresponding Form
Conditional residency obtained through marriage	I-751, to remove conditions
Conditional residency obtained through investment	I-829, to remove conditions
Ten-year permanent resident card	I-90, to renew or replace

In general, these applications must be filed within 90 days prior to the second anniversary of conditional residency. However, the I-751 provides for some exceptions depending on the type of case. It is worth clarifying that failure to file the process on time can affect permanent resident status.

What functions does the I-90 online account offer?

USCIS allows the I-90 to be completed through an online account. This platform facilitates case tracking and notifications about its progress. It also offers estimates on processing times.

Additionally, the online account allows for several additional tasks:

• Review correspondence sent by USCIS.
• Respond to requests for additional evidence.
• Upload documents in digital format.
• Update address or other contact information.