Form I-90, officially titled “Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card,” is used by lawful permanent residents and permanent residents in commuter status to apply for a replacement or renewal of their green card. Managed by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), this form is crucial for maintaining a valid, legal presence in the United States.
Filing Form I-90 may be necessary for a number of reasons, including card expiration, loss, damage, incorrect information, or changes in biographic data. While the form itself is relatively straightforward, many applicants have questions regarding its cost, what’s included in the fee, and what additional expenses may be incurred during the process.
When Is Form I-90 Required?
Before diving into the financial details, it is essential to understand the circumstances under which you may need to file Form I-90:
- Your green card has expired or will expire within six months.
- Your card was lost, stolen, mutilated, or destroyed.
- You never received your card after USCIS mailed it.
- Your card has incorrect information due to USCIS error.
- Your name or other biographic information has legally changed.
- You have reached age 14 and are required to register.
USCIS Filing Fee for Form I-90
As of 2025, the USCIS filing fee for Form I-90 is composed of two main components:
- Form Filing Fee: $455
- Biometric Services Fee: $85
This brings the total cost to $540 for most applicants. The biometric services fee covers fingerprinting, photographing, and background checks that are part of the identity verification process.
How Much Does It Cost to File Form I-90?
The majority of Form I-90 applicants will be required to pay the full $540 fee. This includes:
- Permanent residents renewing an expired or soon-to-expire card
- Applicants replacing a lost, stolen, or damaged card
- Individuals updating biographic information such as name changes
Applicants should be aware that both the filing fee and biometric fee must be paid at the time of submission. USCIS does not begin processing the application until the full fee has been received.
Fee Exemptions and Reductions
There are limited situations where applicants may not need to pay the full fee or may qualify for a fee exemption:
- USCIS Error: If your green card has incorrect data due to a USCIS mistake, you may not need to pay any fees.
- Commuter Residents: Those converting from commuter status to permanent residence may also qualify for an exemption under certain circumstances.
- Fee Waiver Eligibility: Applicants with financial hardship may file Form I-912, Request for Fee Waiver, to seek exemption from the fee.
To be eligible for a fee waiver, you must demonstrate that your household income is at or below 150% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines or that you are receiving a means-tested benefit such as Medicaid, SNAP, or Supplemental Security Income (SSI).
Payment Methods Accepted by USCIS
USCIS accepts several methods of payment when filing Form I-90:
- Online Filing: Pay via credit card, debit card, or direct withdrawal from a U.S. bank account through a USCIS online account.
- Paper Filing: Include a check or money order payable to “U.S. Department of Homeland Security.” You may also use Form G-1450 to authorize a credit card payment.
Note that USCIS does not accept cash payments. Submissions with incorrect or missing fees will be rejected.
Optional Additional Costs
Beyond the standard $540 fee, applicants may incur additional optional costs:
- Legal or Immigration Services: If you hire an immigration attorney or accredited representative, fees can range from $300 to $1,000 or more depending on the complexity of your case.
- Document Translation: If your documents are not in English, you’ll need certified translations, which may cost $20 to $100 per page.
- Passport Photos: Some applicants opt to include extra photos for identification purposes, costing approximately $10 to $20.
- Mailing Services: While standard mailing is included, using certified or expedited mail for tracking purposes can add $5 to $30.
Filing Form I-90 Online vs. By Mail
USCIS allows applicants to file Form I-90 either online or by mail. Each method has pros and cons:
Online Filing Benefits
- Faster processing and receipt confirmation
- Ability to track case status online
- Secure document uploads and message center
Paper Filing Benefits
- Preferred for applicants with limited internet access
- Suitable for those needing certified copies included
How Long Does the Process Take?
While not a direct cost, the processing time for Form I-90 can affect your travel and employment plans. As of early 2025, USCIS processing times vary by service center but generally range between 8 to 14 months.
Expedited processing is rarely granted and only under extraordinary circumstances, such as severe financial loss, medical emergencies, or urgent travel for humanitarian reasons.
Tips for Avoiding Rejection and Delays
To avoid costly delays, rejections, or having to refile with additional fees, follow these tips:
- Ensure all sections of the form are completed accurately
- Double-check that you are using the current version of the form from the USCIS website
- Submit the correct fee in the proper format
- Include all required supporting documents
- Respond promptly to any Requests for Evidence (RFEs)
Consequences of Not Renewing Your Green Card
Failing to renew your green card can lead to significant complications, including:
- Difficulty proving legal status in the U.S.
- Inability to travel internationally
- Problems with employment verification (Form I-9)
- Complications during naturalization (Form N-400)
Even though an expired green card does not mean loss of permanent resident status, it can limit your ability to exercise rights and benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I get a refund if my Form I-90 is denied?
No. USCIS does not refund filing fees even if your application is denied. It is critical to ensure eligibility before applying.
Can I travel while my Form I-90 is pending?
Yes, if you have a valid green card. If your card is expired, you may need a temporary I-551 stamp from USCIS to travel or re-enter the country.
Do children need to file Form I-90?
Yes. If a child is a permanent resident and their green card is lost, damaged, or expired, a separate Form I-90 must be filed for them, usually by a parent or guardian.
Conclusion
Filing Form I-90 is an essential task for permanent residents who need to renew or replace their green card. While the standard cost of $540 might seem straightforward, additional expenses such as legal help, translations, and mailing can raise the total amount. Understanding the complete cost breakdown helps applicants prepare effectively, avoid unnecessary delays, and ensure a smooth filing process.
Always check the official USCIS website for the most current filing fees and form versions, and consider consulting an immigration attorney if your situation involves unique circumstances. Staying proactive with your green card maintenance ensures uninterrupted access to the rights and privileges that come with lawful permanent residency in the United States.
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