What Are People With Green Cards Without Expiration Dates Supposed to Do?
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USCIS had proposed a rule that all permanent residents who hold a Permanent Resident card (green card) that does not have an expiration date to get a new green card. These green cards were issued between 1977 and 1989. Green Cards issued before 1977 have been revoked already. Once this rule is implemented, such permanent residents will have only 120 days to apply for a new green card. So, the USCIS is recommending that holders of green cards without expiration dates to file now to get it replaced to avoid delays in receiving the new card.
Replace Green Card :
You can apply for a new green card by filing Form I-90, Application for Replace Permanent Resident Card and it has to be filed with the USCIS. If you want to change any biographic information on your green card (for example, if your name has changed due to marriage) or when you lose your card and need a green card replacement, the same Form I-90 has to be filed
A conditional resident is different from a permanent resident. A conditional resident will get a green card that will be valid only for two years. Such a conditional resident has to remove the conditions during the 90 days before his/her card expires. A conditional green card cannot be renewed. The conditions must be removed or else the resident will lose his/her status. A conditional resident has to file Form I-751 to remove conditions. Once this application is approved by the USCIS, a permanent resident card will be issued which is valid for the next ten years.
You will not be penalized if you do not go for a replacement and you will not lose your permanent resident status if you do not replace your old green card. Permanent resident status will not expire. However, per US immigration laws, you should carry evidence of your status (a valid and unexpired green card or temporary passport stamp). If you do not replace your green card, you might experience difficulties in obtaining employment, benefits and re-entry into the US from abroad. If, after traveling abroad, you try to re-enter the US with green cards without expiration dates, chances are that you might experience a delay during the inspection process at the port of entry. So in the best interest, it is advisable to get the card replaced now to avoid delays in getting the new green card later.
The normal process after you send the completed I-90 application to the USCIS is that you will receive an Application Receipt Notice with a 13-character Application Receipt number within a month from the date of filing the I-90 application. This notice from USCIS is the proof that they have received your application and that it is being processed. You can use the 13 digit number on the receipt to check the status of your application while it is pending. You will also be informed about the appointment for your fingerprinting and subsequently, your interview date with instructions related to the supporting documents you need to bring. It would normally take three months to get a new green card.
