There is no single "new law" for green card holders in 2026, but several policy changes that happened in 2025 impact you now. Key changes include: new biometric entry-exit requirements, increased scrutiny for applicants from certain countries, stricter enforcement measures, and the continuation of the 36-month extension for green card renewals. The core process for renewing your green card (Form I-90) remains the same.
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Quick Answer: What Is the New Law for Green Card Holders in 2026?
Several 2025 policy changes now affect green card holders in 2026: mandatory biometric checks at all entry/exit points, enhanced vetting for applicants from 19 specific countries, USCIS officers now have law enforcement authority, and continued 36-month extensions for renewal applications. The basic green card renewal process using Form I-90 remains unchanged, though processing times remain long (10-24 months).
Key 2025 Policy Changes Now Affecting You in 2026
1. Biometric Entry-Exit System (December 2025)
What's new: All non-citizens, including green card holders, will have photographs taken by CBP at every entry and exit point.
What this means for you:
- Expect photos at airports, land crossings, and seaports
- Keep valid documentation on you when traveling
- Processing at borders may take slightly longer
2. Enhanced Vetting for 19 Countries
What's new: Green card holders and applicants from these countries face additional scrutiny: Afghanistan, Burma, Burundi, Chad, Republic of Congo, Cuba, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Haiti, Iran, Laos, Libya, Sierra Leone, Somalia, Sudan, Togo, Turkmenistan, Venezuela, and Yemen.
What this means:
- Pending applications may be delayed for additional review
- Travel may involve more questioning
- Keep all documentation current and organized
3. USCIS Enforcement Authority
What's new: USCIS officers now have some law enforcement powers, including the authority to issue Notices to Appear (deportation proceedings).
What this means:
- Applications are reviewed more carefully for eligibility issues
- Criminal history or fraud concerns may be referred for enforcement
- For straightforward renewals without issues, this shouldn't affect you
4. 36-Month Extension Continues
Good news: The 36-month automatic extension for green card renewals (implemented September 2024) continues in 2026.
What this means:
- When you file Form I-90, your receipt notice extends your expired card for 36 months
- You're covered while waiting for your new card
- This helps account for long processing times
What Has NOT Changed
Despite policy shifts, the core renewal process remains the same:
- ✅ Form I-90 — Same form for renewal
- ✅ Filing fee — $415 online, $465 paper
- ✅ Biometrics — Still required
- ✅ Documents needed — Copy of green card
- ✅ No interview — Still no interview required
- ✅ Online filing — Still available
The mechanics of renewing your green card haven't changed.
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2026 Fee and Payments
Payment Methods Changed in October 2025
- ❌ No more checks or money order **(Update, May 2026: USCIS no longer accepts checks or money orders for paper filings (since 2024). Use Form G-1450 (card) or G-1650 (bank account))**s for paper filing
- ✅ Credit/debit card (Form G-1450)
- ✅ Bank account ACH (Form G-1650)
- ✅ Online payment (for online filing)
Fee Amounts (Unchanged)
- Online filing: $415
- Paper filing: $465
Processing Times in 2026
Current green card renewal processing times:
- ⏱️ Receipt notice — 1-3 weeks
- ⏱️ Biometrics scheduling — 4-8 weeks
- ⏱️ Total processing — 10-24 months
- ✅ Automatic extension — 36 months (protects you while waiting)
Processing times increased significantly in early 2025 due to high application volumes and policy reviews.
What Green Card Holders Should Do in 2026
✅ Keep Documentation Current
- Renew your green card before it expires
- File within 6 months of expiration
✅ Maintain U.S. Residence
- Limit extended absences
- File taxes as a U.S. resident
- Keep ties to the U.S. documented
✅ Be Prepared for Travel
- Carry valid green card or receipt notice
- Expect biometric collection at borders
- Allow extra time for processing
✅ File Accurately
- Errors can cause delays or trigger additional review
- Consider document preparation help for accuracy
✅ Address Any Issues
- If you have criminal history, consult an attorney before filing
- If you've had extended absences, document your U.S. ties
Immigration Ally Helps You Navigate 2026 Changes
With increased scrutiny and longer processing times, filing an accurate application is more important than ever. Immigration Ally helps you submit a complete, error-free renewal.
Our bilingual document preparation service includes:
- ✅ Accurately completed Form I-90 — Current edition
- ✅ Cover letter to USCIS — Professional summary of your application
- ✅ Payment forms (G-1450 or G-1650) — 2026 compliant, for mail-in or online filing
- ✅ Form G-1145 — E-notification when USCIS receives your application
- ✅ Personalized document checklist — Based on YOUR situation
- ✅ Step-by-step filing guide — In English AND Spanish
- ✅ Real-time chat assistance — Get help when you need it
- ✅ Multilingual support — Spanish and English
- ✅ Easy-to-understand language — No confusing legal jargon
Use your packet to file online or by mail — either way, you'll have everything organized and accurate.
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Immigration forms, simplified.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a new green card renewal form in 2026?
The form (I-90) is the same, but make sure you use the current edition (01/20/25). Download fresh from USCIS.gov before filing.
Will my green card renewal take longer in 2026?
Possibly. Processing times increased in early 2025 due to policy reviews and high application volumes. Current times are 10-24 months.
Do new laws affect green card renewal if I have no criminal history?
For straightforward cases without criminal history or immigration violations, the basic process remains the same. Changes primarily affect vetting and enforcement for flagged cases.
Can I still file my green card renewal online?
Yes. Online filing remains available and saves $55 compared to paper filing.
Should I renew my green card sooner because of 2026 changes?
If your card expires within 6 months, yes — file now. The 36-month extension protects you, but starting early is always wise given longer processing times.
Sources:
- USCIS: News Releases
- USCIS: Form I-90
- USCIS: 36-Month Extension
- DHS Policy Updates
This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Immigration policies can change rapidly — check USCIS.gov for the most current information.
