The filing fee for a green card replacement is $455, plus a biometric services fee of $85, for a total of $540 as of 2024

When you file Form I-90 (process to Replace Permanent Resident Card) with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), you pay two separate fees. The base filing fee covers processing your process; the biometric fee covers fingerprinting and background checks. You send both fees together when you submit your form.

The fee structure has not changed since 2017, but USCIS adjusts fees periodically. Before you pay, check the current fee on the official USCIS website under Form I-90 instructions, because fees can shift without notice. Some people may have access to for a fee reduction or waiver based on income — that option is available on the form itself.

Key Takeaways

  • The total cost to replace your green card is $540: $455 filing fee plus $85 biometric services fee.
  • You pay both fees when you submit Form I-90, either by check, money order, or credit card if filing online.
  • If your household income is at or below 200% of the federal poverty line, you can request a fee reduction to $220 or a complete waiver.
  • Processing time is typically 8 to 12 months, so plan ahead if your card is expiring soon.
  • If your card was lost or stolen, you still pay the same fee; there is no separate emergency or expedited replacement cost.

When you can reduce or waive the fee

If your household income falls at or below 200% of the federal poverty line for your family size, you can request a fee reduction. The reduced fee is $220 total. If your income is at or below 100% of the poverty line, you can request a complete waiver and pay nothing.

You claim this on Form I-90 itself — there is a section asking about your household size and income. You do not need to submit tax returns or other proof unless USCIS asks for it later. If you are receiving Supplemental Security Income (SSI), Temporary information for Needy Families (TANF), or Food information (SNAP), you automatically may have access to for a waiver without reporting income.

How to submit your payment

The way you pay depends on how you file. If you file Form I-90 by mail, you send a check or money order payable to "U.S. Department of Homeland Security." Do not send cash. Include both the filing fee and the biometric fee in the same payment.

If you file online through the USCIS online account system, you can pay by credit card or debit card at the time of submission. Online filing is faster and you get a receipt when ready. The USCIS website has instructions for creating an account and uploading documents if you choose that route.

What happens if you cannot pay right now

If you cannot afford the $540 fee and do not may have access to for a reduction or waiver, you have limited options. You cannot file Form I-90 without paying the fee — there is no payment plan or deferral system. However, if your green card is not yet expired, you can wait to file until you have the money saved.

If your card has already expired, you should still carry it along with a copy of your filed Form I-90 receipt. The receipt shows USCIS is processing your replacement, and it serves as proof of status while you wait. If you need to travel internationally before your new card arrives, you will need a travel document (Form I-131) instead, which has its own separate fee of $575.

Processing time and what to expect after you pay

After USCIS receives your payment and process, processing typically takes 8 to 12 months. You will receive a notice telling you when and where to go for biometrics (fingerprinting). This appointment is usually scheduled 4 to 6 weeks after you file. You must attend this appointment — if you miss it without rescheduling, your process can be denied.

Once biometrics are complete, USCIS reviews your background check results. If everything clears, they produce your new card and mail it to the address you provided. You do not pick it up in person. If there are any issues with your process or background check, USCIS will send you a notice requesting more information.

Extra costs you might encounter

The $540 fee covers the replacement card itself. However, if you need your new card faster than the standard 8 to 12 months, there is no expedited processing option available — USCIS does not offer rush service for green card replacements.

If you lose your process receipt or need a travel document while waiting, those are separate requests with their own fees. A travel document (Form I-131) costs $575 and takes 4 to 6 weeks. A replacement receipt (Form I-797) is free if you request it online through your USCIS account.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to pay the fee again if USCIS denies my process?

No. If your process is denied, you do not pay another fee to reapply. However, you must address the reason for the denial — usually a background issue or missing documents — before filing again. USCIS will explain what went wrong in their denial notice.

What if I file Form I-90 but then find my old card?

You should still complete the replacement process. Once you have filed and paid, canceling the process is difficult. Your new card will arrive, and you can keep both. Having a replacement card is useful if your original is damaged or if you need a backup while traveling.

Can I pay the fee in installments?

No. USCIS does not offer payment plans for green card replacement fees. You must pay the full $540 (or reduced amount if you may have access to) when you submit your process. If you cannot pay all at once, you will need to wait until you have the full amount.

Is the fee different if my card was stolen versus expired?

No. Whether your card expired, was lost, was stolen, or is damaged, the replacement fee is the same: $540. The reason for replacement does not change the cost. You straightforward check the appropriate box on Form I-90 explaining why you need a replacement.

Do I need to pay anything extra for the biometric appointment?

No. The $85 biometric fee you paid with your process covers the fingerprinting and background check. There is no additional charge when you go to your appointment. You only need to bring your receipt notice and a valid ID.