You must report your address change to USCIS within 10 days, but changing it on the physical green card itself is a separate step

A green card is tied to your address in two ways: USCIS keeps a record of where you live for official purposes, and your physical card shows an address printed on it. When you move, you need to handle both. The faster requirement is notifying USCIS of your new address within 10 days of moving—this is a legal obligation, not optional. Updating the address printed on the card itself takes longer and involves a different process, but you can live and work with an outdated card while waiting.

The reason for the split is practical: USCIS needs to know where to send you official mail, tax documents, and renewal notices. The card in your wallet is a travel and work document, and while an old address on it is not ideal, it does not stop you from using it. However, if you plan to travel internationally, having a current address on file matters for your records and for any future card replacements.

Key Takeaways

  • You must notify USCIS of your address change within 10 days by filing Form AR-11 online, by mail, or by phone, and this is separate from updating the card itself.
  • Updating the address printed on your physical green card requires filing Form I-90 (process to Replace Permanent Resident Card), which costs a filing fee and takes several months.
  • You can continue to work and live with an outdated address on your card while your I-90 is being processed.
  • If your green card is expiring soon anyway, you may want to file I-90 to get a new card with the current address rather than filing just for the address change.

Notifying USCIS of your address within 10 days

This is the urgent step. USCIS requires you to report your new address within 10 days of moving, and there are three ways to do it. The fastest is online through the USCIS website at uscis.gov—go to the "Change of Address" section and follow the form. You will need your green card number and your A-number (the eight-digit number on your green card). The process takes a few minutes and you get confirmation when ready.

If you prefer to mail it, read Form AR-11 from uscis.gov, fill it out, and send it to the USCIS address listed on the form. Mail typically takes one to two weeks to process. You can also call USCIS at 1-800-375-5283 to report your address by phone, though wait times are often long. Whichever method you choose, keep a record of your submission—a confirmation number from the online form, a copy of the mailed form, or a note of the date and time you called.

Filing Form I-90 to update the card itself

Once USCIS has your new address on file, you can update the physical card. This requires Form I-90, process to Replace Permanent Resident Card. You file this form with USCIS, and they will issue you a new green card with your current address printed on it. The filing fee is currently $455, plus a biometric services fee of $85 (these amounts can change, so check uscis.gov for the current fee). You can pay by check, money order, or credit card depending on how you file.

You can file I-90 online through the USCIS online account system, by mail, or in person at a USCIS office. Filing online is fastest—you upload your documents, pay the fee, and get a receipt number. By mail, you send the form, supporting documents, and a check to the address listed on the form. Processing time varies by location but typically ranges from four to six months. During this time, your old green card remains valid for work and travel.

What documents you need for Form I-90

The basic documents are your current green card, a government-issued photo ID (passport, driver's license, or state ID), and proof of your new address. Proof of address can be a lease, a utility bill, a bank statement, or a mortgage statement—anything showing your name and current address dated within the last 60 days. You will also need a new passport-style photo (2x2 inches) unless you file online and use the digital upload option.

If your green card is damaged, lost, or stolen, you will need to note that on the form. If you have changed your name since your card was issued, bring a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order showing the name change. USCIS will also require you to attend a biometric appointment (fingerprinting) at a local USCIS office, usually scheduled a few weeks after you file. They will send you a notice with the date and location.

When to file I-90 for an address change versus waiting for renewal

Green cards are valid for 10 years (or two years if you are a conditional resident). If your card is expiring within the next year or so, you may want to wait and file for renewal instead of filing I-90 just for the address change. A renewal process (also Form I-90) costs the same and takes the same time, so you are not losing anything by waiting. However, if your card has many years left and you need the address updated soon—for example, because you are traveling internationally or explore for a job that requires current identification—file I-90 now.

One exception: if your card is damaged, lost, or stolen, file I-90 when ready regardless of when it expires. A replacement card is necessary for work and travel, and the address will be updated at the same time.

What happens after you file I-90

USCIS will send you a receipt notice with a case number. Keep this notice—you may need it to prove you have filed if an employer or official asks about your green card status. A few weeks later, you will receive a notice for your biometric appointment. Go to the appointment, get fingerprinted, and bring your receipt notice and photo ID. This usually takes 15 to 30 minutes.

After your biometrics are processed, USCIS will review your process. If everything is in order, they will approve it and mail you a new green card. The card arrives by mail, typically in a security envelope. Once you receive it, your old card is no longer needed, though you can keep it as a record. If USCIS requests additional documents or information, they will send you a notice explaining what they need and when to respond.

If you are traveling before your new card arrives

Your old green card is still valid for international travel even if the address is outdated. However, if you are planning to travel, file I-90 early so there is time for processing. If you are traveling before your new card arrives and your old card is expiring soon, bring a copy of your I-90 receipt notice with you—it shows USCIS has your process in process. Some border agents will accept this as supporting documentation, though your valid green card is what they actually need to see.

If your green card is already expired or expiring during your trip, do not travel until you have a valid card or a travel document from USCIS. Contact your nearest USCIS office or a U.S. embassy or consulate abroad if you need to travel urgently and your card is not valid.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to update the address on my green card, or is notifying USCIS enough?

Notifying USCIS within 10 days is required by law. Updating the physical card is not legally required, but it is recommended if you travel internationally or need current identification. You can live and work with an outdated address on your card indefinitely, but a new card with your current address is cleaner for official purposes.

What happens if I do not report my address change within 10 days?

Failing to report an address change can result in fines up to $200 and, in rare cases, may affect your immigration status or future citizenship applications. USCIS uses your address to send important notices, so if you miss one because they have the wrong address, it can create problems. Report your change as soon as you move.

Can I file Form I-90 online if I do not have a USCIS online account?

You can create a USCIS online account for free at uscis.gov. You will need your green card number, A-number, and a valid email address. Once your account is set up, you can file I-90 and track your case status online. If you prefer not to use the online system, you can mail the form instead.

How long does it take to get a new green card after I file I-90?

Processing time varies by location, but most cases take four to six months from the time you file until you receive your new card. This includes time for USCIS to review your process, schedule and conduct your biometric appointment, and print and mail your card. Check the USCIS website for processing times in your specific area.

Do I need to bring my old green card to my biometric appointment?

Yes, bring your old green card, your receipt notice from I-90, and a government-issued photo ID to your biometric appointment. The appointment is usually quick—you will be fingerprinted and photographed, and your documents will be verified.