Residence permit renewal in Puerto Rico
Renewing a residence permit in Puerto Rico, which is a U.S. territory, generally involves filing an application with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). This process typically applies to individuals holding a Permanent Resident Card (Green Card) or certain other long-term resident statuses.
Most permanent residents are advised to apply for a renewal of their Permanent Resident Card approximately six months before its expiration date. This allows sufficient time for USCIS to process the application, schedule any necessary appointments (such as for biometrics), and mail the new card, helping to ensure continuous proof of status.
Start 180 days ahead
Recommended period to apply before the current card expires, accounting for processing times and potential biometric appointments.
The process
- 1Determine the correct application form based on the type of residence permit (e.g., Form I-90 for Permanent Resident Card renewal).
- 2Gather all necessary supporting documentation, such as a copy of the expiring residence permit.
- 3Complete the application form accurately, either online or on paper.
- 4Pay the required filing fee and any associated biometrics fee, if applicable.
- 5Submit the completed application package to USCIS according to the instructions for the specific form.
- 6Attend a biometrics appointment at a local Application Support Center (ASC) if notified by USCIS.
- 7Receive the new residence permit by mail after the application has been processed and approved.
What to bring
- Current Permanent Resident Card (Green Card) or other residence permit
- Government-issued photo identification
- Proof of address in Puerto Rico (if applicable, for certain forms)
- Any other documents specifically requested by USCIS for the application type
Who handles it
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS)
As of early 2024, the fee for Form I-90, Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card, is typically $415 (which includes a $365 filing fee and an $85 biometrics services fee, subject to change). Fees can be verified on the USCIS website for the specific form being filed.
What commonly goes wrong
- Ensure the correct form is used for the specific type of residence permit being renewed.
- Verify the current filing fees and acceptable payment methods on the USCIS website.
- Respond promptly to any requests for additional evidence or appointments from USCIS.
- Keep a copy of the submitted application and all supporting documents for personal records.
Sources
Other documents in Puerto Rico
Residence permit renewal in other countries
Often renewed together
Don't rely on remembering
Add this document to Duratum and we'll tell you when to start, and remind you before it matters.