Is your child turning 14? It’s time to renew their green card
If your child became a lawful permanent resident (green card holder) before they turned 14, there’s an important legal step you must take when they reach that milestone: you are required to renew their green card.
This rule often catches parents by surprise , especially since many assume that once a green card is issued, it's valid until the expiration date printed on it. But under U.S. immigration regulations, minors who obtained permanent residency before age 14 must file for a new green card once they turn 14.
So if your son or daughter is approaching their 14th birthday or just celebrated it, now is the time to act. ✅
What the Law Says
According to 8 CFR § 264.5(b)(2), any lawful permanent resident who was under the age of 14 at the time of green card issuance is required renew their Green Card within 30 days after reaching age 14.
Even if your child’s current green card has not expired, it is not considered valid for their new age unless renewed. This process updates the photo and biometric data to reflect the young adult they are becoming.
Why Is This So Important?
You might be wondering: “The green card says it’s valid for 10 years. Why do I need to file now?”
Here’s why:
🔹 Immigration Compliance – USCIS mandates this renewal to maintain accurate records. Not renewing may lead to problems proving lawful status later.
🔹 Biometric Updates – A child’s physical appearance changes significantly during adolescence. The updated photo is essential for identification.
🔹 Travel Risks – A non-renewed green card may raise issues at the airport or border, including delays or denial of re-entry.
🔹 Delayed Citizenship Path – If your child wants to become a U.S. citizen later, outdated documentation could slow down or complicate the naturalization process.
🔹 Everyday Activities – Your child may need a valid green card for applying for a learner’s permit, social security card, job, or school registration.
🛠️ How We Help – Simple, Professional, Peace of Mind
At VisaLex, we understand how easy it is to miss a legal deadline amid busy family life. That’s why we offer end-to-end support for this green card renewal process — tailored to your child’s unique situation.
Here’s what we do:
- Confirm Eligibility – We review your child’s immigration history to confirm whether the renewal is required (in some rare cases, it may not be).
- Prepare & File the appropriate Forms – We gather all necessary documents and submit the correct paperwork, ensuring zero errors.
- Manage the Biometrics Appointment – USCIS will likely schedule your child for a fingerprinting and photo update. We help coordinate the logistics.
- Track the Case & Update You – We keep you informed and take care of all correspondence with USCIS.
- Fast, Family-Friendly Service – We treat every case like it’s our own family. Your child’s immigration status deserves the same care and attention as yours.
What Happens If You Don’t Renew?
Let’s talk about the real-life consequences of skipping this step:
🚫 Your child may not be able to prove their lawful permanent residency.
🚫 They could be denied entry into the U.S. if they travel abroad.
🚫 Applying for college, jobs, or a driver’s license may be more difficult.
🚫 They could encounter problems down the line when applying for U.S. citizenship.
🚫 It may result in additional USCIS scrutiny in future filings.
It’s not worth the risk — especially when the solution is simple.
Let Us Handle It for You — Stress-Free
If your child is approaching their 14th birthday, just turned 14, or you're not sure whether they qualify, reach out to our legal team today.
We’ll walk you through exactly what’s needed and make sure everything is done correctly and on time.
Call us: +1 844 847 25 39
Email us: luciane@visalex.com
Book a consultation online: https://visalex.com/
Let VisaLex help your family stay fully compliant and protected.
Because every child deserves a future without immigration worries.