What Does A Green Card Signify
·    The Green Card serves as proof that you have the status of Lawful Permanent Resident (LPR) of the USA.
·    It also certifies that you’re eligible for immigration benefits including the right to work, and some social security benefits.
·    It obliges you to maintain your LPR status, and also to satisfy the conditions of permanent residence. An immigration attorney (such as this) can advise you in regards to what these conditions are.

What Will Happen Once The Card Expires
Since 1989, the Green Card has been subject to renewal every 10 years. This is to help control fraud and misuse. At the end of the 10 years your card expires – this doesn’t affect your LPR status, but it does mean you have no evidence of this status. Once your card reaches its expiry date (or up to six months before) this is exactly what you want to do:
·    The process begins with completing the USCIS (US Citizenship and Immigration Service) Form I-90. You can obtain this by calling the USCIS number 1-800-870-3676 or by downloading the form on the internet. If you require assistance in completing the form, you can consult an immigration law firm.
·    You can file your application online, with a fee of $290, or by taking it to the nearest USCIS office along with your passport. If you file online you’ll at a later date receive an appointment to attend a USCIS office for your biometrics to be taken.
·    The process typically takes 10-12 months. You will be issued a temporary proof of status meanwhile.

Why Is It Necessary
Considering that the expiry of the card has no effect on your status, you may well ask why you ought to bother to renew it. There are several reasons:
·    It is really a legal obligation to hold the card at all times. If you are caught without it, you could be arrested for a misdemeanor.
·    You will find it difficult to get or keep employment without it.
·    If you travel, you could potentially encounter obstacles in reentering the country.

Is There An Alternative
An alternative to applying for renewal is to make an application for US citizenship. This will likely bring lots of benefits including voting rights, and you would no longer require a Green Card. A firm of immigration lawyers can advise you regarding how to go about this.

The topic of US immigration is a legal minefield and it is subject to very complex regulations. Whether you are applying for Green Card renewal or seeking US citizenship, you cannot do it on your own. If you consult a firm of immigration attorneys, you can be certain of getting it right first time.