I have a greencard that was issued in 1984, with no expiration date on it. Can I go outside the US with it.?

Question

I heard that there is a new kind of greencard with expiration date written on it. Does this affect me in any way? Where do you go to obtain an update, if so, and what are the costs? Thanks!

Answer 1

You need to replace your card for the new version of it. You need to use Form I-90. The cost is $260 ($190 for the card, $70 biometric fees). You may do it online.

Let me ask you something: if you've been a permanent resident since 1984, why don't you apply for citizenship instead? Form N-400, costs $400 ($330 plus $70).

Answer 2

Green Card No Expiration Date

Answer 3

Your green card expired in 1994. In 1993 President Clienton had either enacted old law or created new ones. That a green card is only good for 10 years. That's all green cards. It's after that date which they started putting expiration date on the green cards. Just because your card doesn't have an expiration date does not mean it did not expire. You need to contact your local INS office. The fee is 200 dollars to renew your green card.
I would strongly urge you not to go outside of the US with out an updated card.

Answer 4

Yes, you can go outside of the US with a 1984 green card. The US rarely restricts people leaving the US (exception criminals or indicted persons as part of a bail or bond agreement).

If you are going to a country other than your own country (ie Mexican going to Canada) you may be turned back unless you have a valid passport and visa for that country.

I think your real question will be whether you will be allowed back in. You will have difficulties, but depending on several factors you should be let back in. For example, were you a child when the card was issued?

How long will you be outside the US?

Will the name/dob on the green card match your country's passport/identification?

Are you a male who was required to register for the draft but violated that law? (Illegal aliens also have to register!)

Are you a convicted criminal? Do you have any outstanding warrants?

What shape is the card in?

The best thing to do is get an updated one.

Why haven't you gotten your US Citizenship?

Answer 5

Last time I've seen, oddly enough, if you have a card that doesn't have expiration date on it, it was good for forever. There was no requirement to get the new style card. However, you'd better be sure before you step outside.

Here's the number you can call.
INS National Customer Service number:
1-800-375-5238

Please check: www.uscis.gov

Answer 6

save interpreting the expiration date. If that's previous the expiration date by a few days and that's no longer moldy, then that's ok yet i'd throw it out purely b/c i'm choosy. It lasts longer contained in the freezer although even though it receives soggy.

Answer 7

You can leave and come back as many times as yoiu want, when you got your green card expiration date was not written on the card, that is something that the INS started doing years ago, but you are fine.

Answer 8

Yes, you can go outside the US with it. You can go HOME. Put your expired green card in a glass frame, and hang it on your wall, in your own country, for memorabilia. Share your expirences of being an illegal alien in America, and how you tried to "snocker" (use, deceive, trick) US citizen's into telling you how to do it, with your grandchildren. I'm sure they'll appreciate your grand attempt's at adventure.

Answer 9

Richard, be careful I think it should have an expiration date on it! Since it doesn't go get an update just in case. GL!

Answer 10

Sure you can go outside the U.S. with it.

Getting back in is a different story.