Effective December 12, 2022, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) will automatically extend the validity of Permanent Resident Cards (commonly called Green Cards) for lawful permanent residents who have applied for naturalization. This change is being implemented to help naturalization applicants experiencing longer processing times.
LPRs who properly file Form N-400, Application for Naturalization, by submitting the application at least 6 months prior to the expiration of their LPR card, may receive an extension of their Green Cards for up to 24 months without regard to whether they filed Form I-90, Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card (Green Card). However, lawful permanent residents who lose their green card are generally required to file Form I-90, even if they have applied for naturalization and received the automatic extension under this updated policy. Noncitizens must carry proof of registration, such as a green card and any evidence of extensions or may be subject to criminal prosecution under section 264(e) of the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA).
The extension will apply to all applicants filing Form N-400 on or after December 12, 2022. If presented before the expiration of the 24-month extension period provided in the notice, the Form N-400 receipt notice may be used, along with the expired Green Card, as evidence of LPR status. It can also serve as identity and employment authorization under Employment Eligibility Checklist A (Form I-9). LPRs who applied for naturalization before Dec. 12 will not receive a Form N-400 receipt notice with the extension. If their green card expires, they generally still need to file Form I-90 or receive an ADIT stamp in their passport, to maintain valid evidence of their lawful permanent resident status.
