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Can I get a temporary green card while waiting for renewal?

If you are a permanent resident whose Form I-90 is pending with USCIS, then you may qualify for a temporary I-551. An I-90 is the form you would fill out to renew your permanent resident card. Since this renewal process can take up to six months, you may need temporary approval for things like international travel.



Yes, you can obtain temporary proof of your status while waiting for a Green Card renewal (Form I-90). In 2026, the most common method is through an ADIT stamp (Alien Documentation, Identification, and Telecommunications), also known as an I-551 stamp. Once you file your I-90 renewal, your Receipt Notice (Form I-797) usually serves as an automatic extension of your status for a set period (often 24 to 36 months). However, if your extension notice has expired or you have an urgent need for proof of residency (such as international travel or starting a new job), you can schedule an appointment at a local USCIS office to have the I-551 stamp placed in your valid passport. This stamp serves as legal evidence of your Lawful Permanent Resident (LPR) status for up to one year. It is important to bring your expired Green Card, your I-797 receipt, and a valid passport to the appointment. This temporary measure ensures you can continue to live, work, and travel freely while the agency processes the backlog of physical cards.

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As a green card holder, you might wonder whether you should renew your green card or apply for U.S. citizenship. Green cards don't offer as much protection as citizenship does, so you may want to consider applying for citizenship instead of renewing your permanent residency status.

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