A green card or permanent resident card allows an individual to remain in the United States indefinitely. Those who enter the country legally can adjust their status to stay permanently. Some people, including those who qualify for family-based immigration, can secure a green card immediately when they enter the United States.
Others only become eligible after living in the country for multiple years. Regardless of whether someone qualifies for a green card through family relationships, employment status or humanitarian-based immigration programs, they occasionally need to renew their green cards.
How frequently do permanent residents need to renew their green cards?
Green cards can be valid for a decade
Standard green cards grant 10 years of lawful residence in the United States. Individuals who have green cards usually only have to renew them once per decade. However, not everyone secures a green card without conditions initially.
Those who enter the country to marry a fiancé or who secure a green card through an existing marriage may receive a conditional green card. If the marital relationship has not yet lasted at least two years, the foreign national spouse receives a conditional green card.
Their document is only valid for two years. After two years pass, they can apply to remove the conditional status. At that point, their permanent residence no longer depends on their marital status.
Green cards allow people to live and work in the United States. Ensuring that a green card remains up-to-date can help protect an immigrant’s right to stay in the United States. Those adjusting their status, removing conditional status or renewing a green card may need help navigating the immigration process, and that’s okay.