When you’re waiting for something as important as your I-90 form (which is used to replace your Green Card), it’s natural to wonder if you can travel during that time. Let’s break it down in a simple way to help you understand what you can and cannot do while your I-90 is pending.
What Is the I-90 Form?
The I-90 form is used when you need to replace your Green Card. Some reasons for replacing it might include:
- Your Green Card was lost, stolen, or damaged.
- Your information has changed (like your name).
- Your Green Card has expired or is about to expire.
You fill out this form to get a new Green Card.
A Green Card is a document that proves you’re a permanent resident of the United States.
Can I Travel While My I-90 Is Pending?
It depends on where you’re traveling and what type of trip you’re planning.
1. Traveling Within the United States
Good news! You can travel within the U.S. even while your I-90 is pending. All you need to do is make sure you carry some form of identification. Usually, your expired Green Card or your receipt notice (Form I-797) from USCIS will work.
2. Traveling Outside the United States
Here’s where it gets tricky. If you’re planning to leave the U.S., you should be cautious. Traveling outside the U.S. can be risky when your I-90 is pending.
What Can Go Wrong?
- Re-entry Issues: If you travel abroad while waiting for a new Green Card, it might be hard to return to the U.S. without a valid Green Card.
- Expired Green Card Problems: If your Green Card has expired, you might not be allowed back into the U.S. at the border.
It’s always a good idea to check with an immigration lawyer before traveling internationally while your I-90 is being processed.
What If I Need to Travel Outside the U.S.?
If you really need to travel abroad, you have some options to stay safe. Here’s a helpful list:
Options for International Travel:
- Get a Temporary I-551 Stamp:
You can schedule an appointment with your local USCIS office to get a temporary stamp in your passport. This stamp shows that you are a lawful permanent resident, even if your Green Card has expired. - Emergency Advance Parole:
If you have an emergency, you might be able to request something called “Advance Parole.” This document lets you leave and return to the U.S. temporarily while your case is still pending. - Use Your Green Card Receipt Notice (Form I-797):
If you have your receipt notice, it may allow you to travel back into the U.S., but this isn’t always guaranteed. It depends on the immigration officer you meet at the border.
| Travel Option | What It Does |
|---|---|
| Temporary I-551 Stamp | Lets you travel abroad and re-enter the U.S. easily. |
| Emergency Advance Parole | Allows re-entry during urgent situations. |
| Receipt Notice (Form I-797) | May help you re-enter, but it’s not always guaranteed. |
How Long Does It Take to Get My New Green Card?
The I-90 process can take anywhere from 8 to 12 months. While waiting, you should:
- Keep your receipt notice safe.
- Avoid unnecessary international trips.
- Make sure your current Green Card doesn’t expire while traveling.
Processing Time Chart:
| Step | Average Time |
|---|---|
| Receipt of I-90 Application | 2 to 3 weeks |
| Biometric Appointment | 1 to 2 months |
| Decision Made | 8 to 12 months |
What Happens If I Travel and Something Goes Wrong?
If you travel outside the U.S. and face problems trying to re-enter, here’s what you can do:
- Contact a U.S. Embassy: If you’re stuck abroad, go to the nearest U.S. embassy for help.
- Call an Immigration Lawyer: They can offer advice on what steps to take next.
- Be Patient at the Border: If you’re stopped at the border, explain your situation calmly and show all your documents.
Key Takeaways
Here’s a summary of what you need to know:
- Yes, you can travel within the U.S. while your I-90 is pending.
- No, it’s not always safe to travel outside the U.S. without making special arrangements.
- Consider getting a Temporary I-551 Stamp if you need to travel internationally.
- The I-90 process can take up to 12 months, so plan ahead!
Quick Tips for Safe Traveling During I-90 Process
- ✅ Carry your receipt notice or expired Green Card when traveling within the U.S.
- ✅ If traveling internationally, get a Temporary I-551 Stamp.
- ✅ Speak to an immigration lawyer if unsure about your travel plans.
By following these tips, you can avoid problems while your I-90 is pending!
If you have any more questions about traveling during the I-90 process, feel free to reach out to an immigration lawyer for more detailed help.
