On this page
- Quick summary
- Overview (What is Form I-90?)
- Context and workflow
- Requirements snapshot
- Failure prevention (What causes Form I-90 rejections?)
- What it asks for (What does Form I-90 ask for?)
- What you need (What do you need for Form I-90?)
- Checklist (What is the Form I-90 checklist?)
- Processing times
- Where to file
- Fees
- Form sections (What sections does Form I-90 have?)
- Strategy tips
- Mistake severity
- Examples (What are examples for Form I-90?)
- Common misconceptions (What misconceptions surround Form I-90?)
- Edge cases and variations
- Scenarios
- Key differentiators
- Why it matters
- Next steps
- Verification
- Related guides
- Resources
Quick summary
#NOTE: If the error was not caused by DHS, this reason does not apply; instead, you must file using reason “2 After reaching 14 years of age, a lawful permanent resident must register and submit Form I-90, as described in the Form DS-2019 guide, as described in the Form DS-3035 guide.
When you need a replacement or correction of an official record or document
Include it with your application package and follow official instructions for submission.
Names, dates of birth, and passport details on other forms Program checklist requirements Supporting documents and translations
Overview (What is Form I-90?)
#Whether due to loss, damage, or changes in personal information, timely filing of this form ensures that your status as a lawful permanent resident is properly documented and recognized by USCIS, as described in the Application to Register Permanent Residence or guide, as described in the Application for Naturalization guide.
First page of I-90 form
Source: I-90 PDF
Context and workflow
#Processing time for I-90 varies by case type and current workload — always check the official USCIS processing time tool.
Why this matters
- This form acts as a cross-check point: details here must match other forms and supporting documents.
- Inconsistencies often trigger returns or follow-up requests because they create uncertainty in the case record.
Where it fits in the workflow
- Receipt Notice (a related form)
- Attend biometrics appointment (fingerprints, photo, and signature)
- Card production and delivery by mail
Who uses it
Form I-90 is for lawful permanent residents (LPRs) and permanent residents in commuter status who need to replace or renew their Permanent Resident Cards, commonly known as green cards. Conditional permanent residents may also use this form to replace an existing card, provided it is not expired or within 90 days of expiration. This form should be filed if your card has incorrect data due to a DHS error, if your name or biographical information has legally changed, or if your card has been lost, stolen, destroyed, mutilated, or was issued but never received. However, conditional permanent residents seeking to remove conditions on their green card should not file Form I-90 but must instead file a petition to remove the conditions.
When it is used
- When you need a replacement or correction of an official record or document
- If the official instructions allow a correction for the error in question
- When a record is lost, damaged, or issued with incorrect information
Requirements snapshot
#- Review the official instructions to confirm whether this form applies to your situation and what evidence to include.
Failure prevention (What causes Form I-90 rejections?)
#Technical rejections
- Submitting the form without a valid signature
- Ensure form edition is current
Substantive weaknesses
- Submitting original documents when not required
- To avoid filing with expired or soon-to-expire green card without explanation: Explain lost, stolen, or damaged card; include police report if applicable.
- To avoid wrong fee or outdated form: Check current I-90 fee; use the edition date shown on the form instructions.
- To avoid missing copy of green card or proof of status: Include front-and-back copy of current card; provide explanation if lost or damaged.
- To avoid incorrect biographical or address information: Match all details to existing USCIS records; discrepancies cause verification delays.
What it asks for (What does Form I-90 ask for?)
#- Current immigration status and reason for applying for a replacement card.
- Provide biographic information including ethnicity, race, height, weight, eye color, and hair color.
- State whether you have been in exclusion, deportation, or removal proceedings.
- Applicant identification information
- Supporting documentation inventory
- Eligibility or purpose details
- Declarations and signatures
- The photocopy, fax, or scan must be of the original document containing the handwritten ink signature
- Preparer's certification and signature
- Using a stamped or typewritten name instead of a handwritten signature.
- Adjudication and determines that it has a deficient signature, USCIS may deny the request.
- Documentation related to: Legal name change documents submitted as evidence of a name change must have been registered with the proper civil autho
What you need (What do you need for Form I-90?)
#- The current edition of I-90
- Details about the record or document you want replaced or corrected
- Identity documents that match the record being corrected
- Legal name change documents submitted as evidence of a name change must have been registered with the proper civil authority
- you may need to also submit a copy of a government-issued form of identification that contains your name, date of birth, photograph, and signature (for example, passport, driver’s license, military identification document)
- All evidence and supporting documents listed in the Specific Instructions sections.
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Checklist (What is the Form I-90 checklist?)
#- Download the current I-90 and instructions from the official USCIS website
- Review the I-90 instructions for eligible replacement or correction scenarios
- Gather evidence related to the record you are replacing or correcting
- Complete all required sections of I-90
- Ensure that the form is signed and dated in all necessary sections.
- Ensure that all pages of your Form I-90 are from the same current edition.
- Sign, date, and submit I-90 with all required supporting evidence
Processing times
#| Category | Processing time |
|---|---|
| Initial issuance or replacement | 9 to 12.5 monthsas of January 2026 |
| 10-year renewal | 9.5 to 10 monthsas of January 2026 |
- Processing times for I-90 vary by eligibility category and service center. Data sourced from the official USCIS processing times tool.
- Processing times differ significantly by eligibility category. Initial applications, renewals, and replacements each go through different adjudication queues, and some categories consistently take longer than others.
- Renewal filings are often processed differently than initial applications. If you are renewing, file well before your current authorization expires — some categories allow you to continue working while the renewal is pending if filed on time.
- The service center assigned to your case affects how long it takes. USCIS distributes filings across multiple centers, and each has different workloads. You cannot choose which center processes your case.
- To check your estimated timeline: visit the official USCIS processing times tool, select your form and eligibility category, and note that the tool shows the filing date of cases currently being worked on — not a countdown from when you filed.
- While pending: track your case status online with your receipt number, respond promptly to any requests for additional evidence, and update your address through your USCIS account if you move.
Where to file
#Online filing is available for some categories — verify on the official form page. Otherwise, file by mail to the address in the instructions.
File online
an e-Request File Online How to Create a USCIS Online Account Tips for Filing Forms Online Online Filing for Attorneys and Accredited Representatives Close All Open All Form I-90 (PDF, 496
Filing locations and procedures may change. Always verify on the official USCIS website before submitting. For related guidance, see IR-1 Immigrant Visa (Spouse of US.
Fees
#| Component | Amount |
|---|---|
| Filing FeeThe standard filing fee for form i-90. Check the current fee on the official USCIS fee schedule. | See official schedule |
| Biometrics Services FeeFailing to attend the biometric services appointment. | See official schedule |
Can the Form I-90 fee be waived?
Fee waivers may be available for qualifying applicants. See official instructions for eligibility.
What happens if I submit the wrong fee?
USCIS will reject your application if the incorrect fee is submitted. Verify the current fee on the official schedule before filing.
Fee waiver: Fee waivers may be available for qualifying applicants. See official instructions for eligibility. For related guidance, see Notice of Entry of Appearance as.
Fees change; always verify on USCIS.
Form sections (What sections does Form I-90 have?)
#Personal Information
Applicant identification.
- Full name and A-Number if applicable
- Date of birth and nationality
- Current address and contact
Eligibility
Basis for the application.
- Category or classification claimed
- Supporting evidence type
- Dates establishing eligibility
Supporting Documents
Required attachments.
- Identity and status documents
- Category-specific evidence
- Fee payment or waiver request
Strategy tips
#Mistake severity
#| Mistake type | Severity | How to avoid |
|---|---|---|
| Filing with expired or soon-to-expire green card without explanation | RFE | Explain lost, stolen, or damaged card; include police report if applicable. |
| Wrong fee or outdated form | Delay | Check current I-90 fee; use the edition date shown on the form instructions. |
| Missing copy of green card or proof of status | RFE | Include front-and-back copy of current card; provide explanation if lost or damaged. |
| Incorrect biographical or address information | Delay | Match all details to existing USCIS records; discrepancies cause verification delays. |
Examples (What are examples for Form I-90?)
#- Strong application: An applicant submits the form with all required documents and receives a timely decision.
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Common misconceptions (What misconceptions surround Form I-90?)
#- Filing this form does not guarantee approval of the underlying case
- A replacement or correction request does not grant status or benefits by itself
- Submitting this form does not change eligibility for unrelated benefits
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Edge cases and variations
#- Travel document applications may be needed if you are outside the country.
- If you are asked to submit or update I-90, treat it as a package update: check every place the same details appear and keep them consistent.
Scenarios
#An applicant files the application with all required supporting documents and the correct fee.
Application accepted. Biometrics may be scheduled. Case proceeds to adjudication.
Follow the evidence checklist for your category. Missing documents trigger RFEs or denial.
An applicant files before the eligibility window (e.g., I-751 outside the 90 days before conditional residence expires).
Application rejected. Fee returned. Must refile when eligible.
Verify eligibility dates carefully. Filing too early is as problematic as filing late.
An applicant forgets to sign the form.
Application rejected. Must resubmit with signature. Unsigned forms are not accepted.
Sign and date the form. Review the signature block before mailing.
Key differentiators
#- Unlike Form I-485: Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status: Required for: Green card must exist before it can be renewed (Residency pathway)
- Unlike Form N-400: Application for Naturalization: Next step after approval: Naturalization available after maintaining status (Residency pathway)
- Unlike Form G-28: Notice of Entry of Appearance as Attorney or Accredited Representative: Supporting form: Attorney or accredited representative (optional) (Residency pathway)
Why it matters
#Conditional permanent residents cannot use Form I-90 for cards expiring within 90 days.
Why it matters: Filing the wrong form can delay the process and affect residency status.
USCIS will not mail a Permanent Resident Card to a foreign mailing address.
Why it matters: Ensures applicants provide a valid U.S. address to receive their card.
Photocopied, faxed, or scanned signatures are valid if they are of the original handwritten signature.
Why it matters: Allows flexibility in submitting forms while maintaining authenticity.
If your card has incorrect data due to a DHS error, you must attach the original card.
Why it matters: A copy of the card is not acceptable, and failure to provide the original may result in rejection.
Next steps
#- Receipt Notice (a related form)
- Attend biometrics appointment (fingerprints, photo, and signature)
- Card production and delivery by mail
- Receive the new green card by mail
Verification
#This guide is derived from official USCIS instructions for I-90 and is updated when form editions or filing rules change. Always verify current requirements at the official USCIS website.
FAQs
What other forms are typically filed together with Form I-90?
Review the official I-90 instructions for your specific situation. The specific forms required vary by case type. Review the instructions for your particular immigration category to determine which forms must be submitted together.
Does Form I-90 guarantee approval of my case?
No. The decision depends on whether all requirements are met. Review the official I-90 instructions for complete guidance specific to your immigration case and circumstances.
Do I need to file Form I-90 if I'm only updating my address or contact information?
Check the official instructions to see which form or process applies to your type of update. Review the official I-90 instructions for complete guidance specific to your immigration case and circumstances.
What should I do if my Permanent Resident Card has incorrect data due to a DHS error?
To address incorrect data on your card, submit Form I-90 along with the original card as proof of the error. To prevent similar problems, meticulously check each section before submission, confirm that all necessary signatures are included, and ensure you are using the most recent form edition.
What supporting documents do I need for I-90?
Please consult the official instructions for comprehensive information.
Do I need to provide a mailing address for I-90?
A dependable mailing address is essential for receiving notices and your card. If you lack a permanent address, USCIS provides alternatives such as using a representative's address or other secure mailing options. Be sure to consult the official instructions to determine the best solution for your circumstances.
What happens after I submit I-90?
After submitting I-90, USCIS will issue a Confirmation of receipt confirming acceptance. You may then be scheduled for biometrics, an interview, or additional evidence requests depending on your case. You can monitor your case status online using the receipt number from your notice.
What are common reasons I-90 gets rejected?
Common reasons I-90 is rejected include missing or incorrect signatures, using an outdated form edition, incomplete required fields, incorrect fee payment, missing required supporting documents, and photographs that do not meet official specifications. Carefully review the instructions and checklist before submitting.
VisaMind provides informational guidance only and is not a government agency. This is not legal advice. Requirements can change and eligibility depends on your specific facts. If your case is complex or high-stakes, consult a licensed immigration attorney.
Next steps
Requirements vary by nationality, purpose, timeline, and case details. Use Find My Visa to get a personalized checklist with official sources and deadlines.
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