Does your child have a green card and just turned 14? You may need to take action; USCIS requires most green card holders to apply for a new card once they turn 14 years old. In this article, we will walk you through the process of green card renewal for children turning 14 and how to avoid costly delays.
Who Must Apply and Why It Matters
If your child is a lawful permanent resident (green card holder), you may need to take action when they turn 14. You must file Form I-90 to replace their green card within 30 days of their 14th birthday if:
- They recently turned 14 years old, and
- Their current green card does not expire before their 16th birthday
This requirement exists because U.S. immigration law mandates updated identity documents and biometrics for teenage green card holders. It ensures that USCIS has accurate and current photo and fingerprint records on file.
Exception:
If your child’s green card is already set to expire before they turn 16, you do not need to file Form I-90 now. Instead, you can wait and renew the card closer to its expiration date.
What To Do Next
1. File Form I-90 (Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card)
Filing Form I-90 on time is crucial. Failing to file within 30 days of your child turning 14 can lead to complications with their immigration record.
USCIS considers timely compliance a part of maintaining lawful permanent resident status. Delays could result in difficulties when renewing the green card later or when applying for citizenship. Additionally, missing this deadline may require the family to explain the lapse in future immigration proceedings.
Filing on time ensures that your child’s legal status remains secure and their documentation remains valid for school, travel, and future benefits.
Save Money on Filing Fees
If you submit Form I-90 within 30 days before or after the child’s 14th birthday, you only need to pay the biometrics fee. However, missing this window means you’ll be responsible for both the biometrics fee and the full I-90 filing fee, which significantly increases your total cost.
2. Your child will be scheduled for a biometrics appointment
After filing Form I-90, USCIS will schedule a biometrics appointment for your child. This appointment is critical as it allows USCIS to update the photo, fingerprint, and signature associated with your child’s green card. These biometrics are used not only for identity verification but also for background checks.
Your child must attend this appointment at the assigned USCIS Application Support Center. Skipping or rescheduling without cause can delay the issuance of the new card. It’s important to bring a valid ID and the USCIS appointment notice to avoid complications.
3. A new green card will be issued after processing
Once biometrics are completed and the application is reviewed, USCIS will process and approve the new green card. The replacement card is typically mailed directly to your home address.
Be sure to monitor USCIS updates or check your case status online at https://egov.uscis.gov/casestatus. You will need your 13-character receipt number, which can be found on the Form I-797C notice of action, to access your case status.
Tips to Stay on Track
To avoid delays or extra fees, consider these steps:
- Mark Important Dates: Circle your child’s 14th birthday and set reminders for the 30-day filing window.
- Start the Process Early: Prepare to file Form I-90 as your child approaches their 14th birthday to avoid paying extra fees.
- Organize Your Documents: Have your child’s current green card and required identification ready to streamline the application process.
How Qazi Law Can Help Your Family
At Qazi Law Offices, we understand how important it is to maintain proper immigration documentation, especially for your children. We assist families with every step of the Form I-90 process, from verifying eligibility to submitting complete, error-free applications.
Our team ensures that no deadline is missed and that your child’s legal records are kept up to date. We also provide representation if complications arise or if your child needs additional support with other immigration matters in the future.
Let us take the guesswork out of immigration paperwork so you can focus on your family.
If you’re unsure whether your child qualifies for this requirement or need help filing the form, contact us 630-504-0648 or schedule a confidential consultation with Attorney Farrah.
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