Filing For Citizenship, and Green Cards Without Expiration Date

I’m a legal permanent resident with one of the old green cards with no expiration date. I’ve been here since 1988. I’m now 28 years old and after all this procrastination I am going to file for naturalization. I was told I still need to renew my green card in the meantime but that is costly. Naturalization is $700. I will need to travel within the next year and I want to know can I just file for a I-131 travel document so that I can return to the US or do I really need to go ahead and get my permanent residence card renewed while I wait for my naturalization application is being processed? Thanks in advance!
— Anonymous

As of the date of the writing of this answer, there has not been a final published rule requiring the replacement of all green cards without expiration dates. However, with all of the stepped-up security measures that have been put into place by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) at all of the ports of entry, if you plan on traveling outside of the United States, it would be wise to have unexpired, valid documentation that clearly demonstrates your admissibility to the United States. This means traveling with an unexpired passport and up-to-date green card, and any other documentation that may prove you are admissible to the United States. Though your green card on its face is not ‘expired,’ if you travel with it, the Customs and Border Patrol (CBP) will most likely advise you to apply for a new green card. They may cut a portion of the card to discourage you from using it anymore.

The procedure for Form I-90, Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card, includes a fingerprint background check and an updated photograph, both of which enable the government to increase its efficiency and effectiveness in protecting the United State¿s security. A re-entry permit, which is obtained by filing Form I-131, Application for Travel Document, is not a substitute for a green card. Generally, the re-entry permit is applied for and issued to an individual for the purpose re-admission to the United States after a long absence so as to lessen the likelihood that you will be found to have abandoned your permanent resident status. The re-entry permit is presented along with the green card at the port of entry. The application and biometrics fee for Form N-400, Application for Naturalization, is $675.00 total.

Your naturalization interview should be scheduled approximately one year from the date you filed the application. The application and biometrics fee for the I-90 is $370.00 total. Assuming there are no issues concerning your eligibility for renewing your green card, you should receive the replacement card in approximately three months. If you have further questions relating to traveling outside the United States, applying for a replacement green card, or applying for citizenship, it would be wise for you to consult with an experienced immigration attorney.

Michael Shane and Evan Shane, Immigration Attorneys

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K F ★★★★★ a week ago
We came into the Shane& Shane family via Mr Brauwerman a former Immigration Judge prior to his retirement. We knew we … More were in great hands with this merger.
Veronica and Evan were our counsels for the Citizenship process for my spouse and I. Going in, I knew mine would have required additional work. As such, it was not a surprise when I received a decision cannot be made at the interview, while my spouse secured the citizenship at first interview.
Veronica was amazing on the first interview, she prepped me well and took copious notes. With this team, when they tell you to trust the process, believe them and just leave it in their capable hands to follow the protocol. Evan followed up and successfully secured a second interview after a long silence.
Evan prepped me equally and rigorously well for the second interview. He was even more intimidating than the real interview. As a result I am now a Citizen.
This team, Myrna, Veronica and Evan is truly a team. They are responsive, professional, authentic and transparent. They are a true immigration firm and we could not have asked for better representation. Reach out to them for a consultation, I guarantee you will retain them for representation.
Thank you guys!
Ademir Pavao ★★★★★ a year ago
Ademir Pavao
Myself and my son, Ademir Pavao Filho, are so happy here in USA, My son now is in Fort Bragg, Army in North … More Caroline, everything was perfect with us, an I become a permanent resident applying to become a citizenship next year, my special thank to Evan Shane and Maria, that solved all problems we had. I highly recommend this important and necessary services provided by Shane, Shane, and Brauwerman. Evan and Maria worked on our cases and we were impressed by how knowledgeable, organized, and reliable they were.
Ricardo Bendito ★★★★★ 3 months ago
This is by far the best law office!
For years I have dealt with countless law offices and have retained two different attorneys … More before coming to Shane & Shane. my case was very complex, battling mistaken identity while applying for I-601A waiver, and green card application. Evan and Veronica are ultimately the best attorneys I have ever dealt with. They analyzed and came up with a detailed plan pertaining to my case. They lead with full transparency the whole step of the way. I was impressed with the compassion and attention I was given. Thank you again to the whole staff for responding quickly and professionally every time I needed updates. I highly recommend retaining this Law Firm!