U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) announced an update to their policy manual that now automatically extends green cards for individuals who have applied for naturalization. The policy goes into effect on December 12, 2022. The update is meant to help individuals with a valid lawful permanent resident (LPR) status who may be experiencing longer processing times. Under the new policy, individuals may not be required to complete Form I-90, Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card (Green Card), under qualifying circumstances.

Individuals must properly file Form N-400, Application for Naturalization to receive the automatic extension of their LPR status. USCIS will update the text on Form N-400 receipt notices to clearly identify the extension of LPR status for up to 24 months for qualifying individuals. The receipt notice is required along with the Green Card to provide evidence of a valid continued status, identity verification, and employment authorization if it’s used within the 24-month extension period.

If individuals applied for Naturalization with Form N-400 prior to the December 12, 2022, date, the automatic extension is not valid. Individuals must file Form I-90, Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card (Green Card) within currently required guidelines. Green cards must be in a current valid state.

If you have questions about your legal permanent resident status, naturalization, or any other immigration-related issue, please contact us. We actively monitor ongoing updates to U.S. immigration policy to ensure our clients get the proper guidance for their particular situations.