Form I-90 Explained: Fees, Processing Time & Requirements
Learn how to file Form I-90 (Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card). Understand who needs it, how much it costs, what happens after you apply, and how CitizenPath helps you avoid delays.
What is Form I-90?
Form I-90, Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card, is the form lawful permanent residents use to request a replacement, renewal, or update of a green card.
Permanent residents file the form with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) when a green card has expired or will expire soon, is lost or damaged, or contains incorrect information. Filing the form helps you continue to prove lawful permanent resident status.
Although the same application is used, the reason you file affects eligibility, fees, and required supporting documents.
Who Needs to File Form I-90?
You may need to file Form I-90 if you are a permanent resident and your green card:
- Has expired or will expire within six months
- Was lost, stolen, or destroyed
- Was damaged or is no longer readable
- Contains incorrect information due to a USCIS error
- Needs to be updated after a legal name change
- Was never received after approval
Form I-90 is used after you already have permanent resident status. It does not grant a green card or change your immigration category. Instead, it updates or replaces the card you already earned.
Make it easy and file correctly: CitizenPath walks you through each question, checks for errors, and produces ready-to-file forms plus tailored instructions. It's free to try: Green Card Renewal/Replacement Package →
When You Should Not Use Form I-90
Form I-90 is not the right application in every situation. You should not file this particular application if:
- You're a conditional resident with an expiring 2-year green card. Learn about removing conditions →
- You've lost your green card while outside the United States. You may need to obtain a boarding foil →
- You want to apply for a first-time green card. See options to apply for a green card →
Each of these situations has its own USCIS form and process. Filing the wrong application can lead to delays or rejections.
Form I-90 Instructions
Specific I-90 instructions depend on why you are replacing or updating your green card, but the overall application process is the same for most applicants.
When completing Form I-90, you must:
- Confirm your identity and permanent resident status
- Provide information from your current or previous green card
- Select the correct reason for filing
- Submit required supporting information based on that reason
You file the I-90 application with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), either online or by mail. After filing, USCIS may schedule a biometrics appointment and will review your application to confirm that you remain a lawful permanent resident and that your new card is accurate.
Choosing the correct filing reason is critical. It affects eligibility, fees, and what documents USCIS may request during processing.
For step-by-step I-90 instructions, try CitizenPath’s Green Card Renewal/Replacement Package. Our affordable, online service walks you through the application and produces a customized checklist tailored to your situation, ensuring you send only what USCIS requires.
Form I-90 Filing Fee
The Form I-90 filing fee is $465 (paper form) or $415 when filing online. However, there may be no fiing fee for certain types of applicants. Refer to the USCIS fee schedule for the most current fee schedule.
Additionally, if you cannot afford the fee and can demonstrate a financial hardship, you may qualify for a USCIS fee waiver by submitting Form I-912 with your application →
How Long Does Form I-90 Take?
USCIS processing times for Form I-90 vary based on workload and case type. Most applicants can expect average wait times of 4-6 months.
After You File- Receive Form I-797C Notice of Action (receipt notice)
- Attend a biometrics appointment
- Several months of processing before a new card is issued
Get a more detailed explanation of what happens after you file in our page about the I-90 processing time →
Common Form I-90 Mistakes to Avoid
Most Form I-90 problems come from simple misunderstandings rather than complex rules. Avoiding common mistakes can help prevent delays or rejected filings. Key issues to watch for include:
- Choosing the wrong reason for filing
- Paying an incorrect filing fee or missing a fee exemption
- Entering information that does not match USCIS records
- Using Form I-90 when a different USCIS form is required
USCIS I-90 Rejections in 2024
MODERATE RISK
USCIS I-90 Denials in 2024
LOW RISK
Because the filing reason affects eligibility, fees, and review, accuracy matters. USCIS may delay or reject applications with errors, requiring applicants to refile.
CitizenPath checks your application to identify mistakes, omissions and inconsistencies. This optimizes your chances at smooth processing and a quick approval. Learn more about our Green Card Renewal/Replacement Package →
I-90 Application FAQs
How CitizenPath Helps You File I-90 Correctly
CitizenPath makes it easy to prepare Form I-90 correctly the first time. Our affordable online service was designed by immigration attorneys to guide you through each question with simple directions, check for errors, and generate personalized filing instructions.
- Step-by-step I-90 preparation
- Customized checklist of supporting documents
- Error-checking logic and alerts for problems
- Money-back guarantee of USCIS approval
- Try for free; pay only when ready to file