Where to start: USCIS Form I-90

To get a replacement green card, you file Form I-90, process to Replace Permanent Resident Card with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). This is the only official form for this purpose. You can file it online through the USCIS website, by mail, or in person at a USCIS office.

The online filing option is fastest and lets you track your case in real time. You will need to create a USCIS online account, upload documents as PDF files, and pay the filing fee. If you file by mail, send the form and documents to the address listed in the form instructions for your state. Filing in person requires an appointment at your local USCIS field office.

You do not need a lawyer to file Form I-90, though you can hire one if you prefer. Many people file on their own without problems. The form itself walks you through what information to provide.

Key Takeaways

  • File Form I-90 with USCIS online, by mail, or in person — online is fastest and lets you track your case.
  • You will need your current green card (or a copy if it is lost), a valid ID, and proof of your legal name if it has changed since you got your card.
  • The filing fee is currently $455, though you may be able to request a fee waiver if your income is below the poverty line.
  • Processing time varies by location but typically takes three to six months from the time USCIS receives your complete process.
  • USCIS will send you a notice to appear for biometrics (fingerprints and photos) at a local office, usually within two to three months of filing.

What documents you need to include

Gather these documents before you start the form. If your green card was lost, stolen, or damaged, you do not need the card itself — just explain what happened in the form. If your name has changed since you received your green card, bring a copy of the document that shows the change, such as a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order.

You will need a valid photo ID — a driver's license, passport, or state ID card works. If you do not have one, you can still file, but you will need to explain why in the form. You will also need to provide your Alien Number (A-Number), which is on your current green card or any USCIS notice you have received.

If you are filing because your card is damaged, worn, or illegible, you can include a photo of the damaged card with your process. This helps USCIS understand why you need a replacement. If your card was lost or stolen, a police report is not required but can be helpful if you have one.

Filing fees and fee waivers

The current filing fee for Form I-90 is $455. This fee does not include biometrics services, which are free. You pay the fee when you submit your process — online payment is by credit card or debit card, and mail-in payment is by check or money order made out to "U.S. Department of Homeland Security."

If you cannot afford the fee, you can request a fee waiver by filing Form I-912, Request for Fee Waiver, along with your I-90. USCIS will waive the fee if your household income is at or below 200 percent of the federal poverty line. The poverty line amounts change each year and depend on your household size. You can find the current amounts on the USCIS website.

If USCIS denies your fee waiver request, you will be given time to pay the fee before your process is rejected. You do not have to decide about a fee waiver before filing — you can request one as part of your process.

The biometrics appointment and what happens next

After USCIS receives your process, they will send you a notice telling you when and where to go for biometrics. This appointment usually happens two to three months after you file. At the appointment, USCIS will take your fingerprints, photograph, and signature. The appointment takes about 15 minutes.

Bring the notice USCIS sent you, your current green card or a copy of it, and a valid photo ID. If you miss the appointment, USCIS may deny your process, so mark the date on your calendar. If you cannot make the appointment, contact USCIS as soon as possible to reschedule.

After your biometrics appointment, USCIS will review your process and background information. If everything is in order, they will approve your case and mail you a new green card. The card is usually mailed within two to four weeks after approval. You can check the status of your process online using your case number.

How long it takes and tracking your case

Processing time for Form I-90 varies by location. In some areas it takes three months; in others it can take six months or longer. USCIS publishes processing times for each field office on their website, so you can see what to expect in your area.

You can track your case online by logging into your USCIS account (if you filed online) or by calling USCIS at 1-800-375-5283 with your case number. The online tracker shows you when your process was received, when your biometrics appointment is scheduled, and when your case was approved. If you filed by mail and do not have an online account, you can create one using your case number to check status.

If your case is taking longer than the published processing time for your area, you can contact your local USCIS office or file a case inquiry through the USCIS website. Do not file a second process while your first one is pending — this can cause delays or rejection.

What to do if your green card arrives damaged or with errors

When your new green card arrives, check it carefully. Look at your name, date of birth, A-Number, and card expiration date. If anything is wrong, contact USCIS right away. You can file another Form I-90 to correct the error at no additional cost if USCIS made the mistake.

If the card arrives damaged or unreadable, file another I-90 when ready. Keep the damaged card and include it with your new process. USCIS will replace it again without charging you a second fee if the damage was their fault.

If you move before your green card arrives, contact USCIS with your new address. You can update your address online through your USCIS account or by calling 1-800-375-5283. The card will be mailed to your new address.

When you might need a replacement before the new card arrives

If you need proof of permanent resident status before your new green card arrives, USCIS can issue you a temporary I-551 stamp in your passport. This stamp is valid for one year and works as proof of status for travel, employment, and other purposes. You can request this at your biometrics appointment or by contacting your local USCIS office.

Some employers and travel situations require the physical green card itself, not just a stamp. If you are traveling internationally and your card has not arrived, contact USCIS before your trip to see if they can expedite it or issue a travel document. Do not leave the country without proof of status — you may not be able to return.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a photocopy of my green card while I wait for the replacement?

A photocopy is not official proof of status. However, USCIS can issue a temporary I-551 stamp in your passport, which works for most purposes. Some employers and government agencies may require the physical card. Contact your local USCIS office if you need proof of status urgently.

What if I lost my green card outside the United States?

You can still file Form I-90 from outside the country. File online if possible, or contact the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate for instructions on mailing your process. You will need to return to the United States or go to a USCIS office abroad for your biometrics appointment.

Do I need to report a lost or stolen green card to police?

A police report is not required by USCIS, but filing one protects you in case someone tries to use your card fraudulently. Include a copy of the police report with your I-90 if you have one. This helps document that the card was lost or stolen.

Can I travel while my replacement green card is being processed?

You can travel within the United States with a copy of your I-90 receipt notice. For international travel, you need the physical green card or a temporary I-551 stamp in your passport. Contact USCIS before traveling internationally to see if they can issue a stamp or expedite your card.

What happens if USCIS denies my I-90 process?

USCIS rarely denies I-90 applications for permanent residents. If they do, they will send you a notice explaining why. You can file a motion to reopen your case or file a new process. Contact a USCIS office or an immigration lawyer if you receive a denial notice.