Green Cards with No Expiration Date: What You Need to Know in 2025

Green Cards with No Expiration Date

For decades, many U.S. immigrants were issued green cards with no expiration date. These cards, mainly given before 1989, do not carry the 10-year renewal cycle that modern green cards require. If you or someone you know still has one of these permanent resident cards, you might be wondering: Are green cards with no expiration date still valid in 2025? The answer is yes—but there are important updates you should know.

Are Green Cards with No Expiration Date Still Valid?

The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) recognizes that green cards with no expiration date are still legally valid proof of permanent residency. This means your immigration status as a lawful permanent resident does not expire just because your card is old.

However, while valid, these cards can create challenges. Modern systems like airport kiosks, E-Verify checks, and employer verification often expect cards with expiration dates. So even though green cards with no expiration date are technically fine, in practice, they can cause delays and confusion.

Renewal Policies in 2025

In recent years, USCIS has updated renewal processes. If you file Form I-90 to renew or replace your green card, your receipt notice now automatically extends your existing card’s validity for 36 months. This change, effective September 2024, is meant to help immigrants while waiting for USCIS processing.

Still, if you carry green cards with no expiration date, you are not required to file Form I-90 unless you want a modern replacement. USCIS does not mandate renewal of these old cards, but immigration lawyers strongly recommend it for smoother travel and employment verification.

Practical Problems with Green Cards with No Expiration Date

Even though they are legal, green cards with no expiration date come with issues:

• Travel hassles – Airlines and CBP officers sometimes question older cards.
• Employer verification – Some HR systems don’t accept cards without expiration dates, causing job onboarding delays.
• Global Entry and TSA PreCheck – Automated kiosks often reject older cards.
• Security risks – Old cards lack updated security features like holograms and biometrics.

For these reasons, many permanent residents choose to replace green cards with no expiration date, even though it’s optional.

Why Replace Green Cards with No Expiration Date?

The U.S. government has made security upgrades to green cards over the years. Replacing green cards with no expiration date ensures:

• Your photo and biometrics are up to date.
• The card has modern fraud-prevention features.
• You avoid complications at borders or during job applications.

In short, renewing or replacing is a smart move for convenience, even though your lawful permanent resident status never expires.

What Should You Do in 2025?

If you hold one of the original green cards with no expiration date, here’s what experts recommend:

1. Consider filing Form I-90 to upgrade to a modern 10-year card.
2. Keep proof of permanent residency handy for travel or employment.
3. Stay informed on USCIS updates, as policies can change.

Remember, green cards with no expiration date remain legally valid, but replacing them can save you time and frustration.

Conclusion

In 2025, green cards with no expiration date still remain valid proof of lawful permanent residence in the U.S. However, due to modern verification systems and security updates, many experts suggest replacing them with newer versions. Doing so can prevent travel issues, employer delays, and identity complications. While it’s not mandatory, upgrading your card gives you peace of mind.

Also More: Updates: USCIS Transgender Sports Visa Policy to Protect Women’s Athletics 2025

So, if you or your family members still carry green cards with no expiration date, now may be the right time to consider a replacement for smoother immigration and daily life experiences in the United States.