Form I-90 Processing Update: What the 36-Month Extension Means for You

In a significant development for lawful permanent residents, the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has announced an extension of Green Card validity to 36 months for renewals. This decision aims to alleviate processing backlogs and provide greater stability for green card holders during renewal.

Extended Validity Period: What It Means for Green Card Holders

Previously, green card renewals were granted a validity extension of up to 24 months. The new 36-month extension provides additional protection and reduces the frequency of renewals for individuals navigating their residency status. This change is particularly beneficial for those who rely on their green cards for employment, travel, and other legal purposes.

For detailed information on eligibility and the application process, visit the USCIS official announcement.

Steps to Renew Your Green Card Under the New Extension

Navigating the green card renewal process can be daunting, but the extended validity period provides more flexibility. Here’s a streamlined guide to help you through:

1. Verify Eligibility
   Ensure you meet the renewal criteria under the new 36-month extension.
2. Prepare Documentation
   Gather the necessary documents, including your current green card, proof of residency, and any additional supporting materials.
3. Submit Application
   File Form I-90, the renewal application, through the USCIS website, ensuring all information is accurate.
4. Track Your Application
   Use the USCIS Case Status Online tool to monitor the progress of your renewal.

The latest on this policy is that the 36-month extension is currently in full effect and remains the standard procedure.

USCIS officially implemented this change on September 10, 2024, extending the automatic validity period for Green Card renewals from 24 months to 36 months.1 No major reversals or changes have occurred since then; it was designed as a long-term solution to deal with ongoing processing backlogs.

Here is the current operational status and what it means for you right now:

1. How It Works Now

• Automatic Extension: When you file Form I-90 (Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card) to renew an expiring or expired Green Card, the receipt notice you receive (Form I-797) automatically extends the validity of your card for 36 months from the expiration date on the front of your card.
  
• Proof of Status: You can present your expired Green Card together with this receipt notice as valid evidence of your lawful permanent resident status.

This combination is legally accepted for:

• Employment: Verifying eligibility to work (Form I-9).
• Travel: Re-entering the United States after international travel.
  
• Legal ID: Proving status for loans, licenses, etc.

2. If You Have a Pending Application

• New Filers: Any new Form I-90 application submitted now will automatically generate a receipt notice with the 36-month language.
  
• Existing Filers: If you applied before September 2024 and your case is still pending, USCIS began mailing amended receipt notices extending the period to 36 months. If you have not received an amended notice and your 24-month extension is nearing expiration, you should contact the USCIS Contact Center.

3. If You Lost Your Card

This extension requires you to have your expired Green Card in hand.8 If your card was lost, stolen, or destroyed, the receipt notice alone is not sufficient for travel or work verification. In this case, you must contact USCIS to request an ADIT stamp (Alien Documentation, Identification, and Telecommunications) as temporary proof of your status.

Takeaway

USCIS's extension of green card validity to 36 months marks a positive step towards easing the renewal process for permanent residents. At PaperFree.com, we are committed to supporting you through every step of your immigration journey with our comprehensive document management solutions. Stay informed and prepared by leveraging our tools and resources to simplify your experience.

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