Naturalization applicants who did not apply for naturalization at least six months before their green card expiration date previously needed to file Form I-90, Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card, in order to maintain documentation of their lawful status. In an attempt to increase efficiency and assist applicants who experience longer processing times, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) announced that it will automatically extend the validity of green cards for lawful permanent residents who apply for naturalization.
Applicants who file Form N-400, Application for Naturalization, on or after December 12, 2022 will be issued receipt notices with updated language to extend green cards for 24 months past the expiration date. The receipt notice can be presented with the expired green card as evidence of lawful status and employment authorization.