It’s important to keep your lawful permanent resident status when you travel. This is especially true when your I-90 application is pending. This guide will help you understand the rules and what you need for both domestic and international trips.
We’ll also talk about USCIS advice, possible problems, and how long it takes to process your application. This can affect your travel plans.
Key Takeaways
- Understand the implications of traveling while your I-90 application is pending and the potential consequences.
- Learn about the documentation required to travel domestically and internationally during the I-90 process.
- Explore USCIS guidance on travel during I-90 adjudication and the impact of processing times on your travel plans.
- Discover the role of Advance Parole and how it can affect your ability to travel during the I-90 application process.
- Familiarize yourself with the travel restrictions and documentation requirements to maintain your lawful permanent resident status.
Table of Contents
What is Form I-90?
Form I-90 is for people who live in the U.S. legally. It’s used to replace an expired or soon-to-expire green card. This form keeps their status valid for work, ID, and travel.
Form I-90 and its Purpose
The green card proves you live in the U.S. legally. It’s key for jobs, travel, and ID. By filing Form I-90, people can renew their green cards. This keeps their status up to date.
Eligibility Requirements for Filing Form I-90
- Your permanent resident card is expiring within the next 6 months.
- Your permanent resident card has already expired.
- You received your green card before turning 14 and are now 14 years old.
Conditional permanent residents can’t use Form I-90. They must file Form I-751 or Form I-829. This removes the conditions on their status.
| Scenario | Form to File |
|---|---|
| Expiring or expired permanent resident card | Form I-90 |
| Conditional permanent resident status | Form I-751 or Form I-829 |
By filing Form I-90, LPRs keep their status valid. This lets them work, live, and travel in the U.S. without issues.
Where and How to File Form I-90?
As a lawful permanent resident, you have two options for filing Form I-90. You can file online or by mail. Your choice depends on your situation and what you prefer.
Online Filing Process
To file online, you need a USCIS online account. This platform lets you pay fees, check your case status, and more. But, you can’t file online if you’re applying for a fee waiver.
Filing by Mail
To file by mail, send your application to the USCIS lockbox in Phoenix, Arizona. You can use USPS, FedEx, UPS, or DHL. Make sure to mail it right to avoid delays.
Whether you file Form I-90 online or by mail, check the online filing requirements for I-90 or the mailing address for Form I-90. This ensures a smooth process.
Knowing how to file Form I-90 online and where to mail it helps. You can renew or replace your Permanent Resident Card easily. Keep your uscis online account for i-90 up to date.
| Filing Method | Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|---|
| Online Filing |
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| Filing by Mail |
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Processing Times for Form I-90
The time it takes to process Form I-90 can change often. It’s important to check the USCIS website for the latest times. This is because it can affect your travel plans.
USCIS says you’ll get a receipt notice in 2 to 4 weeks after you file. Then, you’ll get a biometrics appointment 5 to 8 weeks later.
Over the last 10 years, there have been big delays in processing green cards. In 2022, there was a big backlog. But, USCIS worked hard in 2023 to catch up.
Most Form I-90 applications are decided in 4 to 8 months. You’ll get your new green card in 7 to 11 months. You can track your application online and get updates.
The i-90 processing times, how long does it take to process form i-90, and current processing times for form i-90 can change. This is because of USCIS’s workload and how many applications they get. Always check the USCIS website for the latest info.
“The green card renewal processing time ranges from 7 to 12 months from the date of filing Form I-90.”
Can I Travel While I-90 Is Pending?
If you’re a lawful permanent resident (LPR) with a pending Form I-90, you might wonder about traveling. The good news is you can travel within the US while your I-90 is pending. But, international travel needs extra steps and documents.
Traveling Domestically with Pending I-90
As an LPR with a pending I-90, you can travel within the US with your expired Green Card and the I-90 receipt notice. This notice proves you’re a lawful permanent resident for domestic travel.
International Travel with Pending I-90
International travel with a pending I-90 is more complex. To travel outside the US and come back, you might need an I-551 stamp in your passport or an Advance Parole document from USCIS. Your expired Green Card alone might not let you back into the US.
Plan your international travel carefully. Talk to USCIS or an immigration attorney to know the specific needs and risks of traveling outside the US while your I-90 is pending.
“Leaving the US without valid proof of permanent residence can result in being barred from re-entry for up to 10 years.”
Remember, Form I-90 processing can take months. So, plan your travel accordingly. Being informed and proactive can make your travel smooth and stress-free while your I-90 is pending.
Documentation Required for Travel with Pending I-90
When your Form I-90 application is pending, you need to know what documents to carry for travel. It’s important to show proof of your lawful permanent resident status. This is true even when your I-90 is still being processed.
Proof of Lawful Permanent Resident Status
You’ll need your expired Green Card and the I-90 receipt notice. These show you’re a lawful permanent resident, even if your card is expired. You might also need an I-551 stamp or Advance Parole document from USCIS.
Traveling for less than a year without making the U.S. your home can affect your status. After two years abroad, your reentry permit will expire. You might need a returning resident visa (SB-1) to come back.
| Document | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Expired Green Card | Carry this as proof of your lawful permanent resident status |
| I-90 Receipt Notice | Carry this along with your expired Green Card |
| I-551 Stamp | Obtain this from USCIS if needed for your travel plans |
| Advance Parole Document | Obtain this from USCIS if needed for your travel plans |
Remember, the documents needed to travel with pending i-90 and the proof of status with i-90 pending are key. They help ensure a smooth trip while your Green Card renewal is in progress.
Consequences of Traveling While I-90 Is Pending
Traveling without the right papers when your I-90 is pending can lead to big problems. You might face delays in getting your application approved. Or, you could have trouble getting back into the United States. Even worse, you could lose your right to live here permanently if you don’t follow the rules.
One big worry is how traveling affects your application. The risks of traveling with i-90 pending include delays in the adjudication of your application. The USCIS might think you’ve given up your right to live here. This could make your application take longer and get more checked.
Also, trying to get back into the U.S. with an expired green card and a pending I-90 can cause big issues. What happens if i travel while i-90 is pending is you might run into trouble with immigration. You could even lose your right to live here. This is why it’s so important to know and follow the USCIS rules.
“Traveling without the proper documentation while your I-90 is pending can have serious consequences, including potential delays in the adjudication of your application, issues with re-entering the United States, and even the loss of your lawful permanent resident status.”
To avoid these problems, make sure you read and follow the USCIS advice. Have all your papers and approvals ready before you travel. This way, you can stay safe and keep your right to live here while your I-90 is being processed.
Advance Parole and I-90 Application
If you need to travel internationally while your I-90 application is pending, you may be able to apply for an Advance Parole document. This will allow you to re-enter the United States after your trip. The Advance Parole document must be obtained separately from the I-90 application.
Form I-131, Application for Travel Documents, is required to request various travel documents, including the Advance Parole document. Advance Parole can be used when you have a pending Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or to Adjust Status, or Form I-589, Application for Asylum and for Withholding of Removal.
The Advance Parole document is typically valid for a period of one year, and travel should generally be limited to less than 90 days. However, there are exceptions for certain visa or status holders, such as H-1, H-4, K-3, K-4, L-1, L-2, V-2, or V-3 visa or status, if they are traveling for the same employer that sponsored their visa.
It’s important to note that obtaining an Advance Parole document does not guarantee re-entry into the United States, as it is subject to immigration inspection at the port of entry. Additionally, the USCIS processing times for Form I-131, Application for Travel Document, are currently greater than six months for most cases.
| Statistic | Value |
|---|---|
| Annual Form I-485 (Adjustment of Status) filings | Around 70,000 |
| Form I-131 (Application for Travel Document) processing time | Greater than 6 months |
| Advance Parole document fee | $575 (or $660 for adjustment of status applicants) |
| Advance Parole document validity period | Typically 1 year |
| Recommended Advance Parole travel duration | Less than 90 days |
In summary, using advance parole with pending i-90 or using advance parole with i-90 application can be a viable option for those needing to travel internationally while their I-90 application is pending, but it’s important to be aware of the application process, requirements, and potential limitations.
USCIS Guidance on Travel During I-90 Adjudication
The USCIS provides specific guidelines for those with a pending I-90 application. This helps ensure a smooth travel experience while your I-90 is being processed.
If you’re a lawful permanent resident (LPR) with a pending I-90, you can use your I-90 receipt notice as temporary proof. But, you might need more documents for certain travel plans.
For urgent or critical travel needs within 15 days, like medical treatment or family emergencies, the USCIS can issue an emergency travel document. To get expedited processing, call the USCIS Contact Center at 800-375-5283 or use your USCIS online account. Do this at least 45 days before you plan to leave.
The USCIS can also speed up the process for Advance Parole, Temporary Protected Status (TPS) travel authorization, reentry permits, and refugee travel documents. To request emergency issuance, you’ll need a completed Form I-131, evidence of eligibility, proof of urgent need to travel, and two passport-style photos.
Remember, any documents not in English must be translated into English. By following the USCIS guidelines for travel with a pending I-90, you can have a smooth experience during the I-90 adjudication process.
I-90 Processing Times and Travel Plans
Planning your travel with a pending Form I-90 application is tricky. The time it takes to process this application can affect your travel plans. It’s important to keep an eye on the current I-90 processing times and adjust your plans.
USCIS has made changes to help those with longer processing times. Starting September 10, 2024, green cards will be extended to 36 months for renewals. This change aims to help with travel and work plans while waiting for the application.
But, it’s key to stay updated and plan your travel wisely. Delays in your I-90 application might need extra steps or documents. Being proactive and watching the processing times can help you make smart travel choices.
| Key Factors to Consider | Details |
|---|---|
| Validity Extension | USCIS will automatically extend the validity of green cards to 36 months for I-90 applicants. |
| Filing Methods | Applicants can file Form I-90 online or by mail (paper applications). |
| Eligibility Criteria |
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| Filing Fees and Documentation |
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By keeping up with the I-90 processing times and their impact on travel, you can make informed decisions. Proactive planning and staying updated can make your travel smooth and stress-free.
Travel Restrictions During I-90 Processing
You can usually travel in the U.S. with an expired green card and I-90 receipt notice. But, there might be travel restrictions or extra steps you need to take. These can change based on your situation and the I-90 application status.
Think about if you need an I-551 stamp or Advance Parole for your trips. The I-551 stamp proves you’re a permanent resident for now. Advance Parole lets you go abroad and come back to the U.S. while your I-90 is being processed.
It’s crucial to check the USCIS guidance on traveling with a pending I-90. Also, talk to an immigration lawyer if you’re unsure about what you can’t do while your I-90 is pending. Knowing the travel restrictions with pending i-90 helps avoid problems with your green card renewal.
| Domestic Travel | International Travel |
|---|---|
| Generally allowed with expired green card and I-90 receipt notice | May require Advance Parole document to re-enter the United States |
| I-551 stamp may be needed in certain cases | Leaving the U.S. without a valid travel document or proof of permanent residence can result in a bar from re-entry for up to 10 years |
| Consult with an immigration attorney for specific guidance | Consult with an immigration attorney for specific guidance |
Knowing the travel restrictions with pending i-90 and what can’t i do while i-90 is pending helps you plan better. This way, you can have a smooth green card renewal process.
Conclusion
Traveling while your I-90 application is pending needs careful planning. You must follow USCIS guidelines closely. This ensures a smooth trip and keeps your legal status during the application.
The Green Card’s validity period has been extended. Now, it’s valid for 24 months for those filing Form I-90. This change makes traveling easier and less stressful for LPRs. USCIS is working to make the renewal process better and more accurate.
It’s important to have the right documents when traveling. You’ll need the new Form I-797 receipt notice and your current Green Card. This proves you’re a lawful permanent resident. By following USCIS advice and knowing about travel restrictions, you can avoid problems that could harm your legal status.
