The purpose of this application is to replace a Permanent Resident card that has been lost, stolen or destroyed. It is NOT to replace a permanent resident card that has expired. If your visa is about to expire and you are a conditional resident through marriage to a U.S. citizen, you need to use Form I-171. If you are a conditional resident through financial investment and facing expiration, you need to use Form I-829.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT FORM I-90
- You can file Form I-90 either on paper and mail it with a check all corresponding documents, or you can file online. The USCIS website has detailed instructions if you choose to file online and also has a quick eligibility test to see if you qualify for applying online before you begin.
- USCIS will inform you when to go to your local USCIS application support center to submit your biometrics after your application has been received
- If you never received your Permanent Resident Card there are boxes to check on the application which will address that situation
- If there is incorrect biographical information, you should apply for a replacement card
- If any of the biographic information changes (i.e. name change due to marriage or divorce), you should apply for a replacement card and you must submit documentation of the changed information (i.e., a marriage certificate or a court document)
- If changes occur before you receive your card, bring documentation of the changes to your local USCIS Application Support Center so the changes can be made before the card is actually issued
- You should make a photocopy of your permanent resident card and keep it in a safe place. If your card is lost, stolen or destroyed, you will be able to provide USCIS with the copy and it will make your application for a new card faster and easier.
- You do not have to submit photos with your I-90 application, but if you are over age 14 when you request a replacement card, you will have to submit new fingerprints at the USCIS office.
- If your application is approved, you will receive your new card in the mail. If the application is denied, or if more information is needed, you will be notified by mail.
GETTING HELP WITH FORM I-90
The Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card is fairly straightforward and the instructions offered online, at your local library, or your local USCIS Application Support Center should be clear enough that you can do it without help from an attorney. As always, you can find information at the USCIS website at www.uscis.gov.
