We have seen it too many times: a green card holder realizes their card is about to expire (or worse, already expired) and starts to panic. Maybe they are worried about being detained, questioned by ICE, or facing trouble at the airport. Others are just frustrated with how long the renewal is taking. There is a lot of confusion around what the card means, how fast it is extended, and what to do if the extension is delayed. Here is what you actually need to know.
You Can File Early, And You Should
The earliest you can apply to renew a green card is six months before it expires. That is not just a guideline. Right now, it is a smart move. Some renewals are taking a week. Others are taking nearly two years. Filing early gives you the best chance of avoiding problems while you wait.
We have seen that electronic filings are generally moving faster than paper. If you want to improve your odds, submit online. After filing, you will receive a document called an I-797 Receipt Notice. This proves you have filed to renew your card and extends your proof of lawful permanent residence status for up to 2 years while you wait.
Expired Card? You Still Have Status
Many green card holders are afraid that once their card expires, they are no longer legally in the U.S. That’s not true. Your permanent resident status does not expire, even if the card does.
But here is the problem: without a valid card or the I-797 Receipt Notice, you do not have physical proof of that status. You are still a green card holder. But without a valid card or I-797 Receipt Notice, you could encounter some difficulties. That’s why renewing early and keeping copies of everything is critical.
Consider Naturalization Instead
If you are tired of renewing your green card every 10 years and paying the fee, now might be a good time to look at naturalization. Becoming a U.S. citizen ends the renewal cycle and gives you a U.S. passport.
Keep in mind that, since Japan does not recognize dual citizenship, becoming a U.S. citizen would mean giving up your Japanese passport. That’s a major decision and not one to take lightly.
Other countries recognize dual citizenship, so this could be a viable long-term option for green card holders.
For HR Managers and Companies Sponsoring Employees
If your company sponsors green card holders, do not assume they keep up with card renewals. There is often confusion about status deadlines, especially for employees originally transferred on E or L visas who later obtained green cards. Employers should proactively check card expiration dates and encourage early renewals.
Bottom Line: Don’t Wait, and Don’t Panic
If your green card is within six months of expiring (or has already expired) take action. File as soon as you can, and keep your I-797 Receipt Notice in a safe place. If you have not received your new card and travel or enforcement is a concern, talk to a professional about temporary travel documents or other temporary proof of status.
Don’t let card delays or paperwork gaps cause unnecessary fear. Yes, immigration processing is slow and inconsistent right now, but there are clear steps you can take to stay protected.
Want help renewing your green card or exploring your naturalization options? Contact Valvo & Associates. We help clients across industries stay compliant, safe, and informed.