US | USCIS to Automatically Extend Green Cards for Naturalization Applicants

USCIS has announced a USCIS Policy Manual update, effective December 12, 2022, that will allow the agency to automatically extend the validity of Permanent Resident Cards (Green Cards) for lawful permanent residents who have applied for naturalization.

Key Points
  • Lawful Permanent Residents who properly file Form N-400, Application for Naturalization, may receive this extension regardless of whether they filed Form I-90.
  • USCIS will update the language on Form N-400 receipt notices to extend Green Cards for up to 24 months for these applicants.
  • The receipt notice can be presented with the expired Green Card as evidence of continued status as well as identity and employment authorization under List A of Employment Eligibility Verification (Form I-9) if presented before the expiration of the 24-month extension period provided in the notice.

The extension will apply to all applicants who file Form N-400 on or after December 12, 2022. LPRs who filed for naturalization before December 12 will not receive a Form N-400 receipt notice with the extension. If their Green Card expires, they must still file Form I-90 or receive an ADIT stamp in their passport to maintain valid evidence of their lawful permanent resident status. Applicants who require an ADIT stamp may request an appointment at a USCIS Field Office by contacting the USCIS Contact Center.

Erickson Insights

This policy update recognizes USCIS’ current processing times while improving flexibility and efficiency. Stakeholders can visit the Policy Manual Feedback page to comment on this update.

Erickson Immigration Group will continue to share updates as more news is available. If you have questions about anything we’re reporting above or case-specific questions, please contact your employer or EIG attorney.