A green card is one of the most well-known documents a U.S. lawful resident is awarded. Permanent residents are required by law to carry a valid green card at all times. But in practice, this rarely happens and is seldom enforced by the U.S. government. Because you don’t use your green card every day, it increases the chances for an expired card to go unnoticed.
Neglecting an expired green card, however, can become problematic. They need to be annually renewed every 10 years. When you need your green card, you really need it.
Carrying an expired green card can create all kinds of logistical issues such as re-entering the U.S., obtaining a professional license, and gaining employment. A valid green card provides proof of legal residence for the above situations, as well as when you are trying to renew driver’s license or buy a house.
The Green Card Renewal Process Explained
The Green Card renewal process is relatively simple. Rivas & Associates attorneys and personnel recommend accessing the Form I-90, Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card to renew an expired green card through the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) website.
Why the Hesitation of Renewing a Green Card?
Although the $540 price tag associated with renewing a green card is disheartening for many, what causes many to shy away from renewing their card is that the USCIS will review the record of the permanent resident.
This occurs following a biometrics appointment each applicant must attend with USCIS. Though the appointment lasts just 15 to 30 minutes, the USCIS documents the fingerprints and a photograph of the resident. Those biometrics are not only used to create a new green card, they also are used by USCIS to run a background check.
If you believe you have a criminal record, contact an experienced immigration attorney before you file your Oklahoma green card renewal.
Why Consult with an Experienced Immigration Attorney?
Simply put: An attorney can help you navigate through the process if you think you have a criminal record which may jeopardize your chances of renewing your green card.
The attorneys at Rivas & Associates are well-versed in the green card application process. Not only can we obtain a copy of your arrest record, we potentially can obtain a waiver or expunge your record depending on the situation.
Not All Crimes are Deportable Offense
A felony in Oklahoma or another state may not be a deportable crime according to the Immigration Nationality Act(INA). The INA provides a list of what are considered to be deportable crimes. These include:
- An aggravated felony
- Domestic violence
- Drug crimes
- Sex crimes
- Fraud
- Two deportable crimes at any time
- A crime of moral turpitude within five years of receiving a green card
Though all of the above offenses have the potential of leading to deportation, each individual case provides its own unique issues and circumstances, making it imperative that you speak with a knowledgeable Oklahoma immigration attorney before filing your paperwork to renew your green card.
Rivas & Associates is a full-service Oklahoma immigration law firm fully committed to advocating for each of our current clients no matter the situation.
Firm attorneys Lorena Rivas and Elissa Stiles are each highly-regarded in the field of immigration law and will enthusiastically develop a legal strategy tailored to meet your legal needs.
If you are unsure about your Oklahoma green card renewal eligibility, contact Rivas & Associates today.
