Expired Green Card? Here’s How You Can Keep Working Legally in the U.S.

Expired Green Card risks

Renewal prevents immigration issues

Legal proof of residency

The expiration of a Green Card raises frequent questions among permanent residents in the United States. This document is essential to prove legal immigration status.

Its importance is significant. More than 13 million people depend on this card, according to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS).

Why it matters: although status is not automatically lost, an expired card can create legal, employment, and administrative obstacles tied to expired Green Card renewal.

What does it mean if your Green Card is expired?

Expired Green Card Renewal: Keep Working Legally in the US – Photo ChatGPT

The expiration of a Green Card does not eliminate permanent resident status. This is established by the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).

However, the card is no longer valid as proof of legal residency. This can complicate everyday procedures.

These include employment processes, identification with authorities, and access to public or financial services.

USCIS warns that an expired card is not valid evidence of immigration status.

This can affect license renewals, service registrations, or applications with state agencies.

It can also make interactions with employers, banks, and immigration authorities more difficult.

How to renew your Green Card step by step

Expired Green Card Renewal: Keep Working Legally in the US – Photo: Shutterstock

The process begins with Form I-90, available online or by mail, according to Infobae.

Applicants must provide personal data, immigration information, and pay the required fee.

There are exemptions for low-income individuals or those receiving public benefits.

Once the form is submitted, USCIS issues Form I-797C.

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This notice automatically extends the validity of the expired Green Card for 24 months.

The combination of both documents serves as legal proof during the process.

The procedure may take between 4 and 12 months, according to USA.gov.

It includes biometric data collection and, in some cases, interviews.

USCIS recommends starting the renewal at least six months before expiration.

Work, travel, and procedures with an expired card

An expired Green Card with an extension notice remains valid for employment and administrative procedures.

Employers can verify status through Form I-9 and E-Verify.

For travel, a resident may return to the United States with the expired card and the I-797C notice.

In case of loss abroad, a temporary document can be requested at a consulate.

It is also possible to obtain an I-551 stamp in the passport through a USCIS appointment.

However, lack of valid documentation may limit important procedures.

These include licenses, bank accounts, credit, and social benefits.

State agencies may reject applications without valid documentation or an extension notice.

Risks of not renewing on time

Failing to renew the Green Card does not eliminate legal status.

However, it exposes residents to difficulties in proving their immigration situation.

This can affect employment, travel, and access to basic services.

USCIS recommends always maintaining valid documentation or proof of renewal in process.

Official guidelines can be found on USA.gov and USCIS.

These sources detail requirements, costs, and updates to the process.