Special Renewal Requirements for Green Cards Issued to Minors

A lawful permanent resident (LPR), commonly referred to as a “green card” holder, is generally expected to renew the green card prior to the expiration date of the card, which is typically ten years from the date of issuance. This is accomplished by filing an application to replace the permanent residence card (form I-90). There are special rules that may apply, however, if the green card was issued to a minor before the child’s 14th birthday.

Renewal Process for Minors Linked to Collecting Biometrics

When applying for a green card, most applicants are required to provide biometrics (e.g., fingerprints, photograph, and digital signature). But if the applicant is under the age of 14, biometrics are not collected.

Like most other LPRs, those under the age of 14 ordinarily are issued green cards that are facially valid for ten years. In order to ensure that all LPRs have provided biometrics by the time they reach the age of 16, special renewal requirements are in place for one who is issued a green card prior to the age of 14 that has an expiration date after the child’s 16th birthday. In such a situation, the LPR is required to file form I-90 and submit biometrics within 30 days of the child’s 14th birthday.

Application Fee Waived if Form Timely Filed

If, as required, the I-90 is filed within 30 days after the child’s 14th birthday, the filing fee for the I-90 application is waived; however, the child must still pay the biometrics fee, which is currently $85. If the I-90 is filed before the child’s 14th birthday, or more than 30 days after the child’s 14th birthday, both the I-90 filing fee and the biometrics fee are required.

Conclusion

This rule regarding green cards issued to minors can be easy to overlook, especially, as there is a short window of time when the application is expected to be filed. Given the financial incentives of being able to file without paying the I-90 application fee, any parent of a child who falls within the scope of this rule would be wise to have the application ready to file as soon as the child’s 14th birthday passes.

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