Official in Florida: USCIS rule to replace permanent resident card in 2026

A new rule issued by the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) requires holders of permanent resident cards, commonly known as green cards, to replace them by 2026. The regulation applies nationwide, including in Florida, and outlines specific scenarios under which renewal is necessary. Permanent residency in the United States allows immigrants to live and work legally within the country. To maintain this status and avoid complications, individuals must ensure their green card remains valid. The USCIS has outlined procedures for renewing these documents, emphasizing that replacement is required not only when a card expires but also in other specified circumstances. The USCIS specifies that permanent residents aged 18 or older must carry valid proof of their foreign registration at all times. This includes the green card itself. Replacement of the card is mandatory in cases such as when the card is lost, stolen, damaged, or contains incorrect information. Additionally, conditional permanent residents who obtained their status through marriage or investment must follow different procedures. Those with two-year conditional green cards cannot use the Form I-90 to renew their cards if they are nearing expiration. Instead, married applicants must submit Form I-751 to request removal of conditions, while investors should file Form I-829. However, Form I-90 can still be used to replace a conditional card that was misplaced or otherwise compromised. To apply for a green card renewal in Florida in 2026, interested parties must complete Form I-90, which is available both online and by mail. The USCIS recommends using the online platform due to its convenience and ability to provide updates and notifications regarding the application process. The standard fee for submitting Form I-90 online is $470, whereas paper submissions cost $520. Some applicants may qualify for a payment exemption based on their individual circumstances. Once processed, the USCIS will send the new physical card by mail. In certain cases, the agency may notify the applicant of a location where biometric data must be collected. Failure to renew the green card on time can lead to difficulties in proving permanent residency. Expired cards may cause issues during international travel, job applications, or government-related processes. Employers are advised not to require additional verification of employment authorization simply because a card has expired. For new hires, workers must present one of the accepted documents to complete Form I-9. During the period while a new card is being processed, the receipt notice issued upon submission of Form I-90 can serve as temporary evidence of status. This notice extends the validity of the expired card for 36 months from the printed expiration date. Both the notice and the old card can be used together to prove permanent residency and support employment authorization or travel arrangements. In situations where the physical card is missing or unavailable, applicants may need to request a replacement directly from the USCIS. The agency provides clear guidelines for handling such cases, ensuring that individuals have access to the necessary documentation to maintain their legal status. As the deadline approaches, it is crucial for green card holders to stay informed about the renewal requirements and take appropriate action to avoid disruptions in their immigration status.