Green Card Renewal Form I-90
What is the I-90 Application?
A United States permanent resident can renew or replace their Green Card with the Form I-90.
Instead of filing your I-90 Application on paper by yourself, we can help you work through the entire process online. We can ensure that the USCIS receives yours on-time and complete.
Common Reasons for Filing Form I-90
You’ll also want to file Form I-90 if any of these apply to your situation:
- Your Green Card is expired or will do so within six months
- You are turning age 14
- Granted automatic permanent residence by USCIS
- Establishing beginning commuter status (you’ve been approved to live in another country, while commuting to the U.S. for work)
- You have been approved to live in the United States and are ending commuter status.
- Your Green Card is outdated and lacks modern security features.
Whatever reason you have for filing Form I-90, we’ll help you complete it and remain in compliance with USCIS. We can ensure that the USCIS receives your I-90 Application on-time and complete.
Who Should not Fill out Form I-90
Conditional permanent residents must use a different set of forms if they try to renew their Green Card within 90 days of its expiration date.
A Green Card proves you live in the U.S. legally and permanently.
United States law requires Permanent Residents who are 18 years or older to maintain possession of their Green Card on their person as a form of identification at all times. Failure to comply with this law constitutes a misdemeanor. If convicted, you may face 30 days in jail and a $100 fine.
Conditional Green Card holders who obtained a limited two-year status through marriage or as a business operator can use the Form I-90 to renew or replace their permanent resident card. However, they can’t use the Form I-90 if their card will expire in 90 days or less. In this case, they must use Form I-750 and Petition to Remove Conditions on Residence.
How Do I Renew My Green Card?
How Long Does It Take to Get a Green Card Renewal?
What Happens if My Green Card Expires?
USCIS Green Card Filing fees
It costs $465 to file your Form I-90.
HelpLegal Forms application package preparation fee is $345.
The USCIS does not issue refunds. If your application is rejected, you’ll need to pay $465 to submit it again. HelpLegal Forms can make sure your Application to Renew Permanent Resident Card is submitted correctly the first time. For a one-time fee of $345, you can have peace of mind for your Green Card status.
Lost or Stolen Green Card Form I-90
Lost or Stolen Green Card
Why replace your lost or stolen green card? Your green card, or permanent resident card, is the physical verification of your right to work and live in the United States. When starting a job, securing a home loan approval, or renewing your driver’s license, you’ll need your green card.
Additionally, if you are at least 18 years old, you must always have your permanent resident card with you. However, if yours is lost, stolen, or damaged, it doesn’t mean you’ve lost your permanent resident status. Though you’ll need to replace it as soon as possible because it could take eight to 10 months to receive a replacement card.
If your green card is stolen or lost, you need to apply for a replacement as soon as possible.
Who Is Eligible to Use Form I-90 to Replace a Lost Green Card?
Both permanent residents (those who have 10-year green cards) and conditional permanent residents (those with two-year green cards more than 90 days from expiration) can use Form I-90 for the following purposes:
- Replace a lost, stolen, or damaged green card
- Request a green card if the USCIS issued you a green card, but you never received it
- Request a replacement green card if there is a mistake on your current one and you need to fix it
- Request a replacement green card because you have legally changed biographical information about yourself, such as your name
Permanent residents can also use Form I-90 to request a special green card if they are taking up commuter status, turning 14 years old, or if they became a U.S. permanent resident automatically.
Can Conditional Permanent Residents Use Form I-90 for Green Card Replacements?
Conditional permanent residents are people who have two-year green cards through marriage or entrepreneurship, for instance. If you are a conditional permanent resident, and your green card expires within 90 days, you cannot use Form I-90 to replace it.
Instead, before your green card expires, you must request to remove the conditions on your permanent residence. If your request is approved, you will receive a 10-year, nonconditional green card.
You must submit your petition to remove conditions before your conditional green card expires. If you allow your green card to lapse before submitting this request, you could lose your permanent resident status and even be forced to leave the country.
If you have a conditional green card through marriage, you can use Form I-751 to remove conditions on your residence. Or, if it is through a financial investment in a U.S. company, you need to file Form I-829.
What if My Green Card Is Lost in the Mail?
You would need to use Form I-90 to apply for a replacement if your green card was lost in the mail. There are specific circumstances when the USCIS may replace it for free.
If you have been tracking your case using the USCIS case status feature, you can check your card to see when it was mailed. But, first, be sure you wait at least 30 days from when the USCIS was scheduled to send your green card. This period allows enough time for your card to be shipped to you and returned to USCIS if it can’t be delivered.
Look over the application you submitted to ensure you gave them your correct mailing address. If your green card never shows up, the USCIS will issue a new one at no cost if your circumstances include the following:
- It’s been more than a month since USCIS mailed your card
- Your green card came back to the USCIS and marked undeliverable
- You are still living at the address you supplied to the USCIS
Prior to filing Form I-90, double-check these reasons. If your circumstances do not meet these criteria, you’ll be required to shell out the full $540 replacement card filing fee.
How Do I Appeal a Form I-90 Denial?
If USCIS turns down your replacement green card (Form I-90) application, they will mail you a letter with an explanation for your denial.
If you are denied, the USCIS does not allow you to appeal your denial. An appeal would mean submitting a request to review your unfavorable decision to the USCIS’s Administrative Appeals Office (AAO) or the Department of Justice’s Board of Immigration Appeals (BIA).
Nonetheless, you can submit a motion to reconsider or reopen your case with the same USCIS field office that denied your replacement card.
If you file this motion type, you can ask the office to reconsider or reexamine its decision. We advise you to talk to an immigration attorney if your replacement green card application is denied.
An attorney can assist you in making a case, for example, that their decision to deny your petition was centered on incorrect immigration policy, application of the law, or was based on false evidence in your file when the USCIS made the decision.
How Much Does It Cost to Replace My Lost Green Card?
There are a couple of different fees associated with renewing your green card. USCIS fees include:
- $465 I-90 application fee
If you file your Form I-90 through the U.S. Postal Service (USPS), you can pay with a personal check, cashier’s check, money order, or credit card using Authorization for Credit Card Transactions, Form G-1450.
If you are sending a check, make it out to the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. These fees are non-refundable regardless of whether your application is rejected or if you withdraw your petition.
HelpLegal Forms Ensures You File Your Form I-90 Correctly and on Time
It typically takes about six to eight months to receive your new green card after filing Form I-90. That’s why it’s imperative to complete and file your application as soon as you can.
You can get started today with our step-by-step software, which includes a reminder service telling you when to file, instant error reporting to spot your mistakes, and an application package assembly service. Avoid costly errors and processing delays by signing up with HelpLegal Forms today.
Green Card Replacement Form I-90
Green Card Replacement Application
A green card, also known as a permanent resident card, is a document that is vital for millions of immigrants in the United States. As a green card holder, you have permission to live and work in the U.S. for up to 10 years before you need to renew your permanent resident status.
If your current green card becomes unusable before it expires, however, you will need to apply for a replacement with the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). FileRight.com can help you complete this application using Form I-90.
In addition to a passport, permanent residents need a valid green card to travel the world freely. Use USCIS Form I-90 to apply for a replacement green card if yours is damaged or lost.
Why You Need to Have a Valid Green Card
Your green card provides proof of your identity and your U.S. immigration status. All permanent residents who are 18 or older are legally required to carry their green card on them at all times.
Without a valid green card, you could run into several problems. For example:
- Employment: You must show proof of your right to work in the U.S. when applying for a job, or your current employer may ask for a copy of it.
- The threat of deportation: You may be detained by immigration officials if you aren’t carrying your green card and they are unable to verify your legal status.
- Freedom to travel: Permanent residents can travel freely to other countries, and a valid green card will allow them to return to the U.S. without question or delay.
- Buying a home: As permanent residents, green card holders are eligible for financing to purchase a home. However, a mortgage lender will ask to see valid proof of your status.
Who Can Use Form I-90 for Green Card Replacement?
Any green card holder can use Form I-90 for the following purposes:
- Replace a lost, stolen, or damaged green card
- Request a green card if the USCIS issued you one, but you never received it
- Request a replacement green card if there is a mistake on your current one and you need to fix it
- Request a replacement green card because you have legally changed biographical information about yourself, such as your name
Permanent residents can also use Form I-90 to request a special green card if they are taking up Commuter Status, turning 14 years old, or if they automatically became a permanent resident of the United States.
Can Conditional Permanent Residents Use Form I-90?
Conditional permanent residents have two-year green cards rather than the typical 10-year cards. So, for example, you might have a conditional green card if you received your permanent resident status through marriage or entrepreneurship.
If you are a conditional permanent resident, you can use Form I-90 to replace your green card but not renew it. Instead, before your green card expires, you must request to have the conditions on your permanent residence removed using USCIS Form I-751.
How Long Does It Take to Receive a Green Card Replacement?
The time it takes the USCIS to process your I-90 application varies based on fluctuations in their caseload. However, current wait times are approximately seven to 13 months, which means it could take over a year to get your new green card after you file Form I-90.
With such a lengthy processing time, it’s vital that you complete and file your application as soon as you realize that your card is lost or damaged.
We Can Help You File Successfully
HelpLegal Forms makes green card replacement easy and error-free.
Our automated software will take you step-by-step through the paperwork, filling in each field for you. In addition, the application package includes an error report that flags missing or illogical entries so that you can correct these errors before submission.
All that’s left for you to do is sign the application and put it in the prepaid and pre-addressed envelope that we provide. We will also advise you on how to pay your USCIS fees and how much that will cost you.
How Much Does It Cost to Replace My Green Card?
Most applicants must pay $465 in government fees to USCIS when replacing their green card.
- An application filing fee of $465 to cover administrative and processing costs
USCIS will not refund these fees, even if they deny your application. However, we are so confident in the success of our system that if your petition is denied or rejected, we will refund all fees. This includes your government fees and our $345 application package services fee.
Find Out if You’re Eligible for a Replacement Green Card
Save time by making sure you are eligible to file USCIS Form I-90 even before starting the paperwork. HelpLegal From offers a free Green Card Replacement Qualification Quiz to confirm this is the correct application for you.
By asking just a few simple questions, we’ll guide you to the exact USCIS form that you need. We can take the confusion out of all your immigration paperwork.
Permanent Resident Card Renewal Form I-90
What is the I-90 Application?
The Form I-90 application is used by permanent residents of the United States to replace or renew their Permanent Resident Cards. Conditional permanent residents must use a different process to replace an I-90 that has expired or will expire within 90 days.
We’ll help you prepare your entire application package and provide you with everything necessary to file it with USCIS. In addition, we’ll give you the flexibility to manage all your immigration paperwork online from anywhere. Even better, we can do this all online for you.
A Permanent Resident Card proves you live in the U.S. legally and permanently.
The law requires Green Card holders who are at least 18 years old to always maintain possession of the Green Card for identification purposes. Failure to do so constitutes a misdemeanor and can carry a fine of up to $100 and a jail sentence of up to 30 days.
You can’t file Form I-90 during the 90 day period before your Green Card expires.
Conditional Green Card holders with a limited two-year status that was obtained through marriage or business operator status, use Form I-750, Petition to Remove Conditions on Residence.
Common Reasons for Filing Form I-90
File Form I-90 if USCIS issued a Green Card to you, but you haven’t received it. Similarly, you’ll file Form I-90 if your current Green Card is lost, stolen, destroyed or otherwise mutilated.
In addition, you’ll file Form I-90 if you need to correct Department of Homeland Security (DHS) information on your Green Card, or if you have legally-changed updated information like a name change or a new address.
You’ll also want to file Form I-90 if any of these apply to your situation:
- Expired or soon-to-expire Green Card within six months
- Turning age 14
- Granted automatic permanent residence by USCIS
- Establishing beginning commuter status (you’ve been approved to live in another country, while commuting to the U.S. for work)
- Ending commuter status (you’ve been approved to actually live in the U.S., after being a commuter to the U.S. for work)
- Outdated style used in legacy Green Cards that doesn’t include the security features of modern cards
Regardless of your reason to file Form I-90, we’ll help you through the process to aid you in maintaining your Green Card compliance.
How Do I Renew My Permanent Resident Card?
While the application can be long, it takes just a few steps to renew your Permanent Resident Card. Simply create an account with USCIS and fill out Form I-90. Include a copy of your current green card and any other required documents. Then review and sign your application, pay any fees, and mail it in.
How Long Does It Take to Get a Green Card Renewal?
On average, it takes about 10-12 months to renew a green card. This process can take longer if there are any errors with your application or problems with delivery.
What Happens if My Green Card Expires?
If your green card expires before you can renew it, you may apply for a temporary permanent resident card. You will still be a legal resident of the United States and won’t be deported simply because your green card expired. You also won’t face any additional late on top of the standard renewal fee once you replace your green card.
USCIS Green Card Filing fees
The USCIS fee to file Form I-90 costs $465.
HelpLegal Forms application package preparation fee is $345.
USCIS won’t refund your money, even if your Form I-90 is denied. We’ll help ensure your Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card is correct and complete.
Adjustment of Status Form I-485
Adjustment of Status Application (Green Card Application)
Adjustment of status is the process of applying for a permanent resident card, commonly called a green card, while living in the United States. Adjustment of status grants someone legal permission to live and work in the U.S. permanently. This green card application will take time to process, so be sure to file promptly.
Applicants will have to meet eligibility requirements and pay immigration fees. The process may be confusing, but you may seek assistance if necessary. Language translators, immigration filing services, and lawyers may help you with your application
Form I-485 is the application to register permanent status or adjust status. This is commonly known as the US green card application.
Who Is Eligible for Adjustment of Status?
A foreign national living in the United States for an allowed reason can use Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status to ask to live here permanently and obtain a green card.
Relatives of U.S. citizens who showed U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) a family relationship using Form I-130 and received a visa can use Form I-485 to ask for a green card. This includes:
- Children
- Spouses
- Parents
- Siblings
U.S. visas are always available to a U.S. citizen’s spouse, unmarried children less than age 21, and parents. Form I-130 and Form I-485 may be filed concurrently. A citizen’s spouse who used a fiancée visa to enter the US and married within 90 days can also use Form I-485 to request a green card.
Relatives of Green Card Holders
Spouses and unmarried children of green card holders who showed USCIS a family relationship using Form I-130 and received a visa can use Form I-485 to ask for a green card. If you have a visa when your relative applies for a green card, then you can submit these forms together.
Workers
If you are in the United States with a temporary work visa and have been offered a permanent job in the U.S., you could use Form I-485 to ask to stay in the U.S. permanently. Your U.S. employer can start the process for your green card using Form I-140, Petition for Alien Worker.
Cuban Citizens
A Cuban who received permission to enter the U.S. after January 1, 1959, and has been inside the U.S. for at least one year can use Form I-485 to apply for a green card. As can their spouse and unmarried children who entered the United States under the same conditions.
Refugees and Asylees
Refugees and asylees can use Form I-485 to obtain a green card. In Form I-485, you must prove that you are still an asylee, refugee, or refugee’s spouse or child and that you’ve been inside the U.S. for one year since arriving for that reason.
What Is the Process for Adjustment of Status?
To apply for adjustment of status, fill out Form I-485 and include all the requested information. Your green card application will need to be supported by proof of eligibility, such as:
- Birth certificates
- Proof of income
- Joint bank statements
- Proof of family relationship
- Proof of sponsor’s citizenship or green card
- Proof of petitioner’s legal U.S. entry
- Form I-864, Affidavit of Support
Green card application petitioners will also need to undergo a medical exam by a USCIS-approved doctor and attend a biometrics appointment. USCIS will review your green card application and schedule an interview for the petitioner and sponsor to confirm the information on your application. Bring any relevant documents to your interview, including copies and the original documents.
How Long Does Adjustment of Status Take?
How long adjustment of status takes to process depends on your application type. Family-based applications sponsored by a U.S. citizen can take up to 14 months to process. You may wait 38 months if the sponsoring relative is a green card holder.
One thing you can do to prevent an unnecessarily long wait time is to make sure your application is complete and accompanied by all supporting documents. An incomplete application that doesn’t provide enough information to make a decision will result in a request for evidence (RFE). Errors could lead to application denial.
Cost to Apply for a Green Card
For most people, the I-485 costs $1225.
- Application fee for most adults – $1440
- Application for kids 13 or less who applies with at least one parent – $950
Form I-485 is the application to register permanent status or adjust status. This is commonly known as the US green card application.
Who Is Eligible for Adjustment of Status?
A foreign national living in the United States for an allowed reason can use Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status to ask to live here permanently and obtain a green card.
Relatives of U.S. citizens who showed U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) a family relationship using Form I-130 and received a visa can use Form I-485 to ask for a green card. This includes:
- Children
- Spouses
- Parents
- Siblings
U.S. visas are always available to a U.S. citizen’s spouse, unmarried children less than age 21, and parents. Form I-130 and Form I-485 may be filed concurrently. A citizen’s spouse who used a fiancée visa to enter the US and married within 90 days can also use Form I-485 to request a green card.
Relatives of Green Card Holders
Spouses and unmarried children of green card holders who showed USCIS a family relationship using Form I-130 and received a visa can use Form I-485 to ask for a green card. If you have a visa when your relative applies for a green card, then you can submit these forms together.
Workers
If you are in the United States with a temporary work visa and have been offered a permanent job in the U.S., you could use Form I-485 to ask to stay in the U.S. permanently. Your U.S. employer can start the process for your green card using Form I-140, Petition for Alien Worker.
Cuban Citizens
A Cuban who received permission to enter the U.S. after January 1, 1959, and has been inside the U.S. for at least one year can use Form I-485 to apply for a green card. As can their spouse and unmarried children who entered the United States under the same conditions.
Refugees and Asylees
Refugees and asylees can use Form I-485 to obtain a green card. In Form I-485, you must prove that you are still an asylee, refugee, or refugee’s spouse or child and that you’ve been inside the U.S. for one year since arriving for that reason.
What Is the Process for Adjustment of Status?
To apply for adjustment of status, fill out Form I-485 and include all the requested information. Your green card application will need to be supported by proof of eligibility, such as:
- Birth certificates
- Proof of income
- Joint bank statements
- Proof of family relationship
- Proof of sponsor’s citizenship or green card
- Proof of petitioner’s legal U.S. entry
- Form I-864, Affidavit of Support
Green card application petitioners will also need to undergo a medical exam by a USCIS-approved doctor and attend a biometrics appointment. USCIS will review your green card application and schedule an interview for the petitioner and sponsor to confirm the information on your application. Bring any relevant documents to your interview, including copies and the original documents.
How Long Does Adjustment of Status Take?
How long adjustment of status takes to process depends on your application type. Family-based applications sponsored by a U.S. citizen can take up to 14 months to process. You may wait 38 months if the sponsoring relative is a green card holder.
One thing you can do to prevent an unnecessarily long wait time is to make sure your application is complete and accompanied by all supporting documents. An incomplete application that doesn’t provide enough information to make a decision will result in a request for evidence (RFE). Errors could lead to application denial.
Cost to Apply for a Green Card
For most people, the I-485 costs $1225.
- Application fee for most adults – $1440
- Application for kids 13 or less who applies with at least one parent – $950
Green Card Through Family Form I-130
Green Card Through Family Application
Some family members of green card holders may, under certain circumstances, petition to obtain green cards of their own through Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative, with United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
Certain qualifications apply for anyone wishing to help their family member obtain a green card. And the timeline for applications can vary depending on which family member is applying and where in the world they are living. Find out what you can expect when filling out Form I-130.
Get help with your Form I-130 application through a qualifying family member with FileRight today.
Who Can Apply for a Family-Based Green Card Using Form I-130?
Both U.S. citizens and green card holders use Form I-130 to petition for qualified relatives to receive legal permanent residency (LPR) status. U.S. citizen qualified relatives are:
- Husband and wife (spouse)
- Biological parents, step-parents, and adoptive parents
- Brothers and sisters, adopted siblings, step-siblings, and half siblings
- Unmarried or married sons and daughters under the age of 21
- Unmarried children or married children over the age of 21
Preference of these qualified relatives is given to immediate relatives with spouses and children at the top of the list. LPR qualified relatives are:
- Husbands and wives
- Unmarried sons and daughters under the age of 21
- Unmarried sons and daughters over the age of 21
Main Features of Family-Based Green Cards
Family-based green cards have a number of advantages and drawbacks compared to other types.
- The applicant’s work history won’t impact their eligibility.
- Their spouse and unmarried children of the primary applicant may also qualify for a green card.
- A green card holder can lose theirs if they commit a crime, fail to note a change of address, or if you make their primary residence outside of the United States.
- Green card holders who keep their card for five years (three years if married to a United States citizen).
Things to Remember When Completing Form I-130
Before completing Form I-130, you want to ensure that you have everything you need. Making a mistake (like including the wrong fee) or having missing information on your form can delay processing or even get your application denied. A few things to remember:
- Answer all questions fully and honestly
- Provide supporting evidence for your claims about yourself and your family member
- Include your form of payment with your application
- Sign your petition
How Long Does It Take to Get a Green Card Through Your Family?
The amount of time it takes to receive a green card through a qualified family member depends on where they live, whether they are a U.S. citizen or green card holder, and the family member’s relationship to them.
For qualified family members of an U.S. citizen, the times it can take for them to receive a green card are as follows:
- Spouses: 10-13 months for those residing in the U.S., 10-17 months for those residing outside the U.S.
- Widows: 10-13 months.
- Parents: 10-13 months.
- Minor children (21 and Under): 10-13 months.
- Unmarried adult children: 8-9 years. For citizens of the Philippines: 10+ years. For citizens of Mexico: 20+ years.
- Married adult children: 13-14 years. For citizens of Mexico and the Philippines: 22+ years.
- Siblings: 14-16 years. For citizens of India: 16+ years. For citizens of Mexico: 20+ years. For citizens of the Philippines: 24+ years.
The times it can take to for a qualified LPR relative to receive a green card are as follows:
- Spouses: 29-38 months for those residing in the U.S., 23-32 months for those residing outside the U.S
- Minor children (21 and Under): 23-38 months.
- Unmarried adult children: 8-9 years. For citizens of the Philippines: 10+ years. For citizens of Mexico: 20+ years.
USCIS Filing Fees for Petition for Alien Relative (Form I-130)
There are some filing fees for Form I-130 that total up to $675, so you’ll want to make sure that everything is correct before submitting it.
- HelpLegal Forms application package preparation fee is $335.
- USCIS filing fees for Form I-130 is $675
USCIS won’t refund your money, even if your application is denied. We’ll help ensure your application is correct and complete.
What Happens After I Submit My Petition?
Once USCIS receives your Form I-130, the agency processes the application. USCIS will then send you:
- A confirmation receipt notice of your petition
- A notice of a biometrics appointment date
- An interview appointment date may be scheduled
- A written notice or decision
Normally, when the USCIS approves the petition, the agency sends it to the U.S. Department of State’s National Visa Center (NVC).
When a visa is available, the NVC notifies both your and your relative of the invitation to apply for an immigrant visa. The invitation extends to qualifying dependents as well.
When the time comes for the relative to immigrate, the petitioner must agree to be his or her financial sponsor by filing You’ll file Form I-864, Affidavit of Support when the time comes for your relative to immigrate.
The form states your commitment of financial support to your immigrating relative
Petition for Relative Form I-130
A permanent resident card, commonly known as a green card, is a photo ID card issued by the United States government. Green card holders are allowed to live and work in the U.S. as legal residents. However, the application process can be complicated.
U.S. citizens and permanent residents may petition for a relative using Form I-130. About 226,000 family-based green cards are issued to foreign nationals every year. Learn more about who may file Form I-130, how much it costs, and what happens after you apply.
A close-up of a permanent resident card. Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative, can help your family member obtain permanent residency in the United States.
Who Can Use Form I-130 to Apply for a Family Green Card?
Both U.S. citizens and green card holders may use Form I-130 to petition for relatives to receive legal permanent residency (LPR) status. Relatives of a U.S.citizen who may qualify for a green card include:
- Spouses
- Biological parents, step-parents, and adoptive parents
- Brothers and sisters, adopted siblings, step-siblings and half siblings
- Married or unmarried children under age 21
- Married or unmarried children over the age of 21
Preference of these qualified relatives is given to immediate relatives with spouses and children at the top of the list. LPR qualified relatives are:
- Spouses
- Unmarried children under the age of 21
- Unmarried children over the age of 21
Things to Remember When Completing Form I-130
- Answer all questions fully and honestly
- Provide supporting evidence for your claims about yourself and your family member
- Include your form of payment with your application
- Sign your petition
What happens after I submit my petition?
Here are some tips to keep in mind to ensure your petition for relative application is accepted and processed in a timely manner:
- Answer all questions fully and honestly
- Provide supporting evidence for your claims about yourself and your relative
- Include your form of payment with your application
- Sign your petition
How Much Does It Cost to Petition for a Relative?
There are multiple fees associated with filing USCIS forms. You can expect to pay a total of $955 to apply for a relative’s green card using Form I-130. This includes:
- $335 FileRight fee for application package preparation
- $535 USCIS filing fees to file Form I-130
Do I Need to File Form I-130 for Each Relative?
A U.S. citizen or permanent resident may sponsor more than one relative. File Form I-130 for each relative you are sponsoring. For example, if you are applying for your parents, you must submit FormI-130 for each parent.
What Happens After You Submit Your Petition?
Once U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) receives your Form I-130, the agency processes the petition for relative application. USCIS will then send you:
- A confirmation receipt notice of your petition
- A notice of a biometrics appointment date
- An interview appointment date may be scheduled
- A written notice of decision
Apply for a U.S. Visa
Normally, when the USCIS approves the petition, the agency sends it to the U.S. Department of State’s National Visa Center (NVC). When a U.S. visa is available, the NVC notifies both you and your relative of the invitation to apply for an immigrant visa. The invitation extends to qualifying dependents as well.
File Form I-864
USCIS Form I-864 on a clipboard. This is the Affidavit of Support application form needed to sponsor an immigrant for U.S. citizenship.
When the time comes for the relative to immigrate, the petitioner must agree to be his or her financial sponsor by filing Form I-864, Affidavit of Support. The form states your commitment of financial support to your immigrating relative. The minimum annual income requirement is 125% of Federal Poverty Guidelines.
How Long Does Form I-130 Take to Process?
How long your application will take to process depends on the status of the sponsoring relative. Green card holders sponsoring an immediate relative can expect a processing time between 13 and 19 months. U.S. citizens who sponsor an immediate relative using Form I-130 may experience a wait time between 15 and 20 months.
Can You Check if Your Form I-130 Is Approved?
You can check the status of your petition for relative application on the USCIS website. If your application status says it has been approved but you haven’t received notification yet, contact USCIS at 800-375-5283.
What Happens if Your Form I-130 Is Denied?
If you do not provide enough information for USCIS to make a decision, you will be issued a Request for Evidence (RFE). Your application to petition for a relative’s green card may be denied if you ignore the request or do not provide enough information.
USCIS will not refund your money, even if your petition for relative application is denied. The most important thing you can do is make sure your application is prepared with care. HelpLegal Forms will help ensure your application is correct and complete.
Green Card Through Marriage Form I-130
A marriage green card allows you to work and live in the United States if you are married to a citizen or green card holder. The first step in obtaining a green card through marriage is to submit Form I-130 Petition for Alien Relative for U.S. Citizenship and Immigration (USCIS) review.
Once your Form I-130 is completed and processed, you can apply for your green card, where you will have permanent resident status. Then, after three years, you will be permitted to apply for U.S. citizenship.
You can submit your green card application after you show proof of marriage.
Can I Apply for a Green Card Right After Marriage?
Prior to applying for a green card, you’ll need your U.S. citizen, or green card holder, spouse to file Form I-130 Petition for Alien Relative.
Because orchestrating a fake marriage to obtain a green card is fraudulent, the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) scrutinizes marriage-based green card applications more closely. They need to ensure neither you nor your spouse has tried to evade immigration laws.
Therefore, you will need to submit Form I-130 to the USCIS and additional supporting documentation to establish marriage legitimacy. This petition will outline life details related to your marriage.
What Happens After My Spouse Submits My I-130 Petition?
Once USCIS receives your Form I-130, the agency processes the application. USCIS will then send you:
- A confirmation receipt notice of your petition.
- A notice of a biometrics appointment date.
- An interview appointment date.
- A written notice of their decision.
Processing Approval if You Live Abroad
Usually, when the USCIS approves the petition, the agency sends it to the U.S. Department of State’s National Visa Center (NVC).
When a visa is available, the NVC notifies both you and your spouse of the invitation to apply for an immigrant visa. The invitation extends to qualifying dependents as well.
When the time comes for you to immigrate, your spouse must agree to be your financial sponsor by filing Form I-864, Affidavit of Support. The form states their commitment of financial support.
Your Green Card Application
On its own, the approval of a family-based petition on Form I-130 does not provide you with lawful status within the U.S.
Once you’ve completed your I-130 petition, you will still need to complete your green card Application or obtain a visa from the U.S. Department of State. This is where it makes a difference if you live in the U.S. or abroad.
Your Green Card Application if You Live in the U.S.
If you live in America, you will use USCIS Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status. This document and accompanying paperwork are intended to change your visa-holder or documented immigrant status to lawful permanent resident.
Your Green Card Application if You Live Abroad
If you reside outside the United States, you must follow family immigration rules and file it using the consular process. Once your spouse files your Form I-130 on your behalf, the remaining processing steps, including applying for your green card, will be finished at the consulate in your home country or the U.S. embassy.
How Long Does It Take to Get a Marriage-Based Green Card?
First, the Form I-130 processing time takes anywhere from three to 33 months for a spouse.
Next, the waiting time to get a marriage-based green card currently ranges between nine to 36 months. It will vary depending on whether it was an adjustment of status or consular processing, the USCIS caseload, visa availability, and the accuracy and completion of your application package. For example:
- If your husband or wife is a United States citizen and lives in the U.S., you will likely wait about 14 to 28 months.
- If your husband or wife is a United States citizen and you live abroad, you will likely wait about 17-24 months.
- If your husband or wife holds a green card and you live in the U.S., you will likely wait about 22-36 months.
- If your husband or wife holds a green card and you live abroad, you will likely wait about 15-23 months.
It’s a good idea to file your application for a green card through marriage as soon as your Petition for Alien Relative is approved to ensure you receive your permanent resident card promptly.
However, you are already living in the United States on a visa; you may be able to file your Form I-130 and I-485 simultaneously.
USCIS Form I-130 Filing Fees
Because immigration application costs can fluctuate year to year, you should consult the USCIS site to ensure your information regarding their fees is accurate. For example, the charges for filing Form I-130 include:
- USCIS filing fees to file Form I-130 are $535
Because USCIS won’t refund your money even if your application is denied, consider using FileRight to Prepare your application package. The cost for this service is $335.
Our lawyer review services and instant error reporting software will ensure you submit the most accurate application package possible.
Things to Remember When Completing Form I-130
When completing your Form I-130 to show the validity of your marriage, make sure you:
- Answer every question thoroughly and honestly
- Provide corroborating evidence for your claims regarding yourself and your spouse
- Include your form of payment with your application
- Sign your petition
When you’ve completed your petition, we will print your completed forms, assemble them in the correct order, and mail the completed application package to you. We also indicate where to sign and provide a pre-addressed envelope for you to send to the USCIS. Contact FileRight.com today to get started on your application.
Remove Conditions on Green Card Form I-751
If you plan to remain in the United States long-term, you will need to get the conditions removed from your green card. Typically if you get a green card through marriage and have been married for less than two years, you will be issued a conditional green card.
A conditional green card offers all the same rights you would receive under a permanent green card. However, conditional green cards are valid for a much shorter period of time. You must meet the requirements to remain in the country before you can get the conditions removed from your green card and enjoy the protection of permanent residency.
A hand holding a green card. Get help filling out an application for the removal of conditions from your green card.
What Is a Conditional Green Card?
A conditional green card is a two-year green card sometimes given to people who get a green card through marriage. These green cards cannot be renewed. Instead, before they expire, you must apply to have the conditions on your residence removed using Form I-751. If this application is approved, you will receive a non-conditional, 10-year green card.
Can I Renew My Conditional Green Card?
No. Conditional green cards cannot be renewed. Instead, you must apply to remove the conditions on your green card using Form I-751. You will receive a 10-year, non-conditional green card if your application is approved.
How Does FileRight Help Me Petition to Remove Conditions on My Green Card?
FileRight will walk you through each and every application question, providing helpful explanations along the way. We also have a bilingual (English and Spanish) customer support team available to help answer your questions about FileRight.
Our technology checks your application for errors and provides you with customized filing instructions, letting you know where to send your application and what documents to include along with it. We’re so confident in FileRight that if your application gets denied, we’ll refund your money, including government fees.
USCIS Filing Fees to Apply to Remove Conditions on Residence
The USCIS filing fee for filing Form I-751 is $750.
USCIS won’t refund your money, even if your application gets denied. Fortunately, we’ll help ensure your application is correct and complete. The only way to protect yourself against wasting money and time is to ensure that your application gets filed right the first time.
Follow to Jpin Form I-824
Follow-to-Join is an option for family members of green card holders to immigrate to the United States. It is a faster and more convenient way to come to the country than through the traditional immigration process.
Find out if you qualify for Follow-to-Join and how the process can help you bring your immediate family members into the country.
Who Can Use the Follow to Join Process?
After receiving permanent resident status, the principal applicant may apply to bring their spouse or unmarried children under the age of 21 to the United States through Follow-to-Join.
What Is the Cost of Applying?
The application form you must submit for Follow-to-Join is Form I-824. This form is formally titled Application for Action on an Approved Application or Petition. The filing fee for Form I-824 is $590.
Restrictions on Eligibility
There are many restrictions upon eligibility for a Follow-to-Join application. Only green card holders are eligible to be the principal applicant of a Follow-to-Join application.
Once a permanent resident goes through the naturalization process and becomes a U.S. citizen, they can no longer bring their family over in this manner. Instead, they must file a separate visa petition to bring their family over.
Another restriction is that in order to bring a spouse over through Follow-to-Join, the marriage must have occurred before the principal applicant became a permanent resident. Likewise, qualifying children must have been born before the permanent resident status was achieved.
A principal applicant must not have received their permanent residency through the Immediate Relative category in order to use Follow-to-Join to bring over other family members. If you became a permanent resident through the Immediate Relative category, you can instead petition for visas for your spouse or children by filing Form I-130.
