AliciaA

My husband submitted his application At the beginning of November. He had his appointment to have his fingerprints and photos done in early December. Current update says that as of 12/7 he's in line for an interview but we've not heard anything further. His green card expires in late April. Should we begin a renewal of his green card?

Anyone know how long it's currently taking for the naturalization process?

Any insight welcome!

Noorah101

It takes about 6 months from filing N-400 to interview. If approved, it just depends on the location how long it takes for the oath ceremony...some places do same- day,others schedule a month or so later.

I'm not sure about the green card renewal, sorry. There's nothing in the N-400 instructions or USCIS Guide to Naturalization on that topic? Typically a US PR is supposed to carry proof of status at all times, which makes me think it should be renewed...but that's a lot of money to pay to then turn right around and hand it in two months later!

Rene

silvermine

i got a replacement green card in 5 months... but that was pre-trump...

Noorah101

The OP is not asking about a replacement green card.

Rene

RICH

I would expect the interview date to arrive soon and it will be a month or so out. No need to renew the GC.

Although under Trump, I suppose there may be a new normal.

My experience was 3 years ago. Applied in August, Oath ceremony before Christmas.

RICH

Un-related, but I was just reading up, because I know someone whose GC may have expired. It does not appear to be a big deal as far as continuing to citizenship.

AliciaA

I looked but was unable to locate any info in te guide or the FAQs. We will maybe try to give a call this week.

ian-mstm

He remains a PR even if his green card expires. The card is proof of his status... it isn't the status itself.

Ian

AliciaA

thanks all! As of 11/30 our service center was processing N-400 cases from 4/23! So that's over seven months.

silvermine

yes they were

Should we begin a renewal of his green card?


apparently the answer is they don't need to..

silvermine

there may be.. good point

AliciaA

Exactly what prompted my questions. Uncertain times!

Noorah101

Replacing a green card is not the same as renewing a green card. I do understand that you thought they are the same; I'm just clarifying for others reading this.

Rene

silvermine

my personal opinion is should be ok. as ian pointed out the card only shows proof of status not the status itself. the n-400 was applied for well in advance of the green card expiration. now if the interview doesn't get scheduled before april 1st... then maybe another story..

silvermine

well sort of the same timeline.. if you lose it it takes the same time to replace..

sorry should have said renew. but OP did say they already had green card...