Green Card Renewal and Travel For U.S. Legal Residents and Green Card Holders in Maine

How do I renew my green card as a U.S. legal resident or green card holder in Maine?

If you are a legal permanent resident of the United States and you have a green card, you must go through the process of renewing your green card before it expires. In Maine, you must apply for a renewal of your green card at the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) office located in Portland, Maine.

To apply to renew your green card, you must provide the USCIS with Form I-90, Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card. You must also include two passport-style photos, a copy of your current green card, payment for the renewal fee, and any other documents requested by USCIS. After submitting all required documents, you can expect to receive your new green card within 2-3 months.

What is the renewal process, and when should I start the renewal application in Maine?

The renewal process for a Maine driver’s license or identification card is typically the same as the application process. You should start the renewal application at least 30 days before your current license or ID expires. To renew, you will need to go to your local Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) office and bring your current license or ID and proof of your identity, residency, and Social Security Number. You will then need to fill out a renewal application, pay the renewal fee, take a new photograph, and have your signature digitized. After all the necessary steps are completed, you will receive your new license or ID in the mail.

What documents and forms do I need to submit when renewing my green card in Maine?

When renewing your green card in Maine, you will need to submit the following forms and documents:

1. Form I-90, Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card
2. Two identical color passport-style photos
3. A copy of your current green card
4. Payment for the $455 filing fee (cash, money order or personal check)
5. Evidence of continuous residence in the U.S., such as:
– Copies of rent or mortgage payments
– Copies of utility bills
– Copies of income tax returns
– Copies of bank account statements
– Copies of medical records
– Copies of school records
6. Evidence of any trips taken outside the U.S., such as:
– Copies of passport stamps showing dates of entry and exit from the U.S.
– Copies of plane tickets or other travel itinerary showing dates of entry and exit from the U.S.

Are there any age or eligibility requirements for green card renewal in Maine?

Yes, there are age and eligibility requirements for green card renewal in Maine. To be eligible to renew your green card, you must be: 18 years of age or older, be a legal resident of the U.S., and have maintained continuous physical presence in the U.S. for at least 12 months prior to filing the form. If you are under 18 years of age, you may still be eligible for renewal if you were issued a green card before turning 18, have had your green card for at least 12 months, and have been living in the U.S. with a legal guardian for at least one year.

How often do I need to renew my green card, and what is the duration of validity in Maine?

The validity period for a green card (also known as a Permanent Resident Card) in Maine is 10 years. You should renew your green card before it expires. You can start the renewal process six months before your current green card expires.

Can I travel internationally while my green card is expired but the renewal application is pending in Maine?

No. A valid green card is required for international travel, even if you have pending renewal applications. You should wait until you have received your renewed green card before attempting to travel internationally.

What is the fee for renewing my green card, and are there any waivers available in Maine?

The fee for renewing a green card is $540. However, there are fee waivers available to certain individuals in Maine. The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) Fee Waiver Request form must be submitted with the application to request a fee waiver. USCIS may waive the fee for applicants who meet certain criteria, including having an income level at or below 150% of the federal poverty guideline.

Do I need to complete a medical examination as part of the renewal process in Maine?

No, you do not need to complete a medical examination prior to renewing your driver’s license in Maine. However, if you are age 65 or older, the state may require you to pass a vision screening test before renewing your license.

Can I expedite the green card renewal process in case of urgent travel or other reasons in Maine?

Unfortunately, the green card renewal process cannot be expedited in Maine. The process typically takes about 4-6 months and cannot be expedited. If you need to travel urgently, you may apply for a travel document at your local U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) office. The travel document will allow you to travel and return to the U.S. while your green card renewal application is pending.

How long does it typically take to receive the renewed green card after submitting the application in Maine?

Typically, it takes 6 to 12 months for you to receive a renewed green card after submitting your application in Maine. This timeline may vary depending on the type of application that you submit and the backlog of applications that the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is processing.

What should I do if my green card is lost, stolen, or damaged in Maine?

If your green card is lost, stolen, or damaged in Maine, you should contact the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) office in Portland, Maine as soon as possible to report the issue and request a replacement card. You can call the Portland office at (207) 780-3344 or visit their website at www.uscis.gov for more information about the process. You will need to complete and submit Form I-90, Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card, along with the appropriate fee and supporting documents.

Are there any restrictions on international travel based on my green card renewal status in Maine?

No, there are no restrictions on international travel based on your green card renewal status in Maine.

Can I use my expired green card as a form of identification for domestic or international travel in Maine?

No, an expired green card cannot be used as a form of identification for either domestic or international travel in Maine. You must have a valid form of identification such as a passport, driver’s license, or state ID in order to travel both domestically and internationally.

Is there a difference between renewing a conditional green card and a regular green card in Maine?

No, the process of renewing a conditional green card and a regular green card in Maine is the same. Individuals must submit Form I-90, Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card, along with supporting documents and the applicable filing fee.

What are the consequences of not renewing my green card on time in Maine?

If you do not renew your green card on time in Maine, you may face removal proceedings, which could lead to deportation. You could also be prohibited from re-entering the United States. Additionally, you will no longer be eligible for certain benefits, such as employment authorization and health care.

Can I apply for U.S. citizenship while my green card renewal application is pending in Maine?

No, you cannot apply for U.S. citizenship while your green card renewal application is pending. Before you can apply for U.S. citizenship, you must have a valid, unexpired green card.

Do I need to provide additional documentation or evidence to support my green card renewal application in Maine?

Yes, you will need to provide additional documentation and evidence in order to support your application. The required documents may vary depending on which type of green card renewal you are applying for. Generally, you will need to provide documents that prove your identity, immigration status, and relationship to a qualified relative. Documents may include a copy of your green card, passport or other government-issued photo ID, birth certificate, marriage certificate, or other proof of relationship to a qualifying family member.

Is there a way to check the status of my green card renewal application online in Maine?

Yes, there is a way to check the status of your green card renewal application online in Maine. The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) offers an online case status tool that allows you to track your application. To check the status of your application, you will need to enter your receipt number, which can be found on your application receipt.

What should I do if I change my address while my green card renewal application is pending in Maine?

If you change your address while your green card renewal application is pending, you should notify U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) as soon as possible. You can update your address online on the USCIS website, or you can submit Form AR-11, Change of Address Form. Make sure to include your alien registration number on the form. You should also update your address with the U.S. Postal Service so the USCIS can contact you via mail during the green card renewal process.

Where can I find the most up-to-date information and resources for green card renewal and international travel in Maine?

The best place to find up-to-date information and resources for green card renewal and international travel in Maine is the U.S. Customs and Border Protection website. The website contains detailed information on the procedures for renewing a green card, the documents required for international travel, and the regulations for entering and leaving the United States. Additionally, most U.S. Embassies and Consulates in Maine have resources to help with green card renewal and international travel.