Green Card at 14: The crucial rule every parent needs to know before It's too late

Green Card at 14: The crucial rule every parent needs to know before It's too late

It’s one of the most overlooked immigration rules for families with children in the United States,  and yet, it carries serious consequences if ignored.

Did you know that when a child who holds a Green Card turns 14 years old, U.S. law requires that the Green Card be replaced , even if it’s still valid?

It’s true. And failing to act within 30 days of the child’s 14th birthday can lead to complications that affect everything from school enrollment and travel to citizenship eligibility in the future.

A Quiet Rule with Loud Consequences
Under federal immigration regulations (8 CFR § 264.5), a lawful permanent resident must replace their Green Card at age 14 unless their current card will expire before they turn 16. This rule exists because at age 14, the U.S. government begins requiring biometrics , digital fingerprints and photographs, as part of permanent resident identity verification.

Unfortunately, this quiet requirement often goes unnoticed by parents, guardians, and even some legal residents themselves. The result? Missed deadlines, unnecessary stress, and preventable legal trouble.

What Can Happen If You Don’t Renew?
While a missed renewal may seem harmless, the consequences can be surprisingly harsh:

  • Inability to prove legal status when applying for school, jobs, or government benefits
  • Complications when applying for a driver’s license or state ID
  • Delays in naturalization when the child eventually seeks U.S. citizenship
  • Risk of being accused of abandoning or violating lawful status
  • Problems when traveling internationally and trying to reenter the U.S.

In today’s immigration environment,  especially with increased scrutiny and enforcement,  staying in compliance with even the smallest rule is essential.

Why Families Trust VisaLex
At VisaLex, we understand how overwhelming these legal requirements can be, especially when you're busy parenting, working, and planning for the future. That’s why we’ve helped thousands of families across the U.S. manage every step of the immigration process with precision, compassion, and professionalism.