The current fee for a green card replacement is $455

The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) charges $455 to replace a green card as of 2024. This is the filing fee for Form I-90, the process for replacement, renewal, or reissuance of a Permanent Resident Card. The fee covers processing your process and issuing a new card.

You pay this fee when you submit your process. If USCIS approves your request, the new card is mailed to you — there is no separate card production fee. The $455 covers the entire replacement process from start to finish.

Some people are exempt from paying this fee. If you are 14 years old or younger, or if you are 65 or older, you do not pay. Certain victims of trafficking and some refugees also may have access to for a fee waiver. If you cannot afford the $455, you can request a fee reduction or waiver by including Form I-912 with your process.

Key Takeaways

  • The replacement fee is $455 and covers the entire process, including the new card itself.
  • Children under 14 and adults 65 and older do not pay the fee.
  • You can request a fee reduction or waiver if you cannot afford the cost by submitting Form I-912 with your process.
  • Processing time is typically 12 to 18 months, so budget for that wait before your new card arrives.
  • You submit Form I-90 by mail or through the USCIS online portal if you are may be able to access to file online.

How to pay the $455 fee

When you file Form I-90, you include a check or money order made payable to "U.S. Department of Homeland Security." Do not send cash. Write your USCIS receipt number (if you have one) on the back of the check or money order.

If you file online through the USCIS portal, you pay by credit card or debit card during the process process. The portal accepts Visa, Mastercard, American Express, and Discover. You receive a confirmation number when ready after payment.

If you mail your process, send the check or money order in the same envelope as your Form I-90 and supporting documents. Mail everything to the USCIS address listed in the Form I-90 instructions for your state.

When you might not pay the full amount

If your household income is at or below 200 percent of the federal poverty line, you can request a fee reduction to $230. To do this, include Form I-912R (Request for Fee Reduction) with your process and provide proof of your income, such as recent tax returns or pay stubs.

If your income is below 100 percent of the federal poverty line, you can request a complete waiver and pay nothing. You still submit Form I-912R with your process and include the same income documentation.

USCIS reviews your request and notifies you whether the reduction or waiver is granted. If denied, you still owe the full $455. You can pay it at that time, or your process will be rejected.

Processing time and what happens after you pay

After USCIS receives your $455 payment and process, processing typically takes 12 to 18 months. During this time, USCIS may request additional documents or schedule you for a biometrics appointment (fingerprinting). You will receive a notice in the mail if either happens.

Once your process is approved, USCIS sends your new green card by mail. You do not pick it up in person. The card is mailed to the address you provided on your Form I-90.

If USCIS denies your process, your $455 fee is not refunded. This is rare for straightforward replacements, but it can happen if USCIS finds you are no longer may be able to access for permanent resident status.

Reasons you might need to replace your green card

Your green card expires after 10 years (or 2 years if you are a conditional resident). When it expires, you need to renew it, which uses the same Form I-90 and costs the same $455. You can file up to 6 months before expiration.

You also file Form I-90 if your card is lost, stolen, or damaged. A faded card that is still readable does not require replacement, but a card with a cracked chip or missing information does. If your name changed due to marriage or court order, you need a replacement card showing your new name.

If you change your address, you do not need a new card — you update your address with USCIS separately. However, if your card was issued with an incorrect address, you can request a replacement to correct it.

Filing online versus by mail

Not everyone can file Form I-90 online. You are may be able to access to file online if you are at least 14 years old, your green card is not lost or stolen, and you meet other conditions listed on the USCIS website. Filing online is faster — you receive a receipt number when ready and can track your case online.

If you file by mail, you send your completed Form I-90, the $455 check or money order, and supporting documents to the USCIS address for your state. You receive a receipt notice in the mail within 2 to 4 weeks. Mailing takes longer overall because of postal delays and USCIS processing backlogs.

If your card is lost or stolen, you must file by mail. You cannot use the online portal for lost or stolen cards. Include a police report or other evidence of the loss if you have it.

What documents you need to submit with the $455

Along with your $455 payment and completed Form I-90, you need to submit a copy of your current green card (both sides) or evidence that it is lost or stolen. You also need a government-issued photo ID, such as a passport or driver's license.

If you are renewing an expired card, include a copy of the expired card. If your name has changed, include a copy of the document that shows the change, such as a marriage certificate or court order.

If you are requesting a fee reduction or waiver, include Form I-912R and proof of your household income. Acceptable proof includes recent tax returns, pay stubs, or a letter from your employer stating your salary.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get my $455 back if USCIS denies my process?

No. USCIS does not refund fees even if your process is denied. Denials are uncommon for straightforward replacements, but they can happen if USCIS determines you no longer meet the requirements for permanent resident status.

How long does it take to get my new card after I pay?

Processing typically takes 12 to 18 months from the date USCIS receives your process. Once approved, the card is mailed to you — it does not arrive when ready. You should receive it within 2 to 4 weeks of approval.

Do I need to pay $455 every time my card expires?

Yes. Green cards expire every 10 years (or 2 years for conditional residents). Each time you renew, you pay the $455 fee and file Form I-90. You can file up to 6 months before expiration to avoid a gap.

What if I cannot afford the $455 right now?

You can request a fee reduction to $230 or a complete waiver by submitting Form I-912R with your process and providing proof of your household income. USCIS will review your request and notify you of the decision.

Can I use my old green card while waiting for the replacement?

If your card is not expired, you can continue to use it for travel and work while your replacement is being processed. If your card is expired or lost, you may need to request a travel document or replacement card expedited in certain situations — contact USCIS for guidance.