I-751 - When to File

[sapa_uscan 0]

Received Greencard on 12-06-07 and expiring on 12-06-09. Based on the time lines in the threads you need to send the form within 90 days from expiration. Does it cause problems if you send I-751 earlier than the 90 days e.g. five months earlier?

Even if you send it within 90 days it seems the process takes closer to 180 days. So what happens during this period -- you have sent I-751 but your Greencard has expired?

[chili74 0]

This is what I was asking in a thread I started. The problem is that one person wrote (I linked to it) when she sent her I-751 in earlier than 90 days in advance it got sent back to her.

But the question remains, what is our status in the wait period, we would have an NOA1 from sending the petition but what does that give us?

[JeremyR 8]

what is our status in the wait period, we would have an NOA1 from sending the petition but what does that give us?

A one year extension to your permanent resident and (with travel and employment authorised) is granted on the NOA (which, along with your expired GC, is your proof of status while in RoC).

[chili74 0]

Jeremy R--

So as soon as we get NOA1 we have to make an InfoPass to get this?

[JeremyR 8]

No, the NOA1 is the extension document. Look at the example image here (click the image to make it big enough to read. It's probably worded differently these days but the principle is the same).

[Marilyn. 340]

you cannot file earlier then 90 days before the card expires...

[Kathryn41 3,205]

You file within the 90 days prior to the green card expiring. Filing earlier than that means your application will be returned to you. Filing later than that risks denial unless you can offer a very good reason why you filed late.

[chili74 0]

OK, apologies. My question was unclear. I mean I am confused about the I-551 stamp in the passport. We have to make an InfoPass appointment to get this?

[Marilyn. 340]

OK, apologies. My question was unclear. I mean I am confused about the I-551 stamp in the passport. We have to make an InfoPass appointment to get this?

yes

but you only get the stamp if for some reason you don't get the NOA1 or if you do get the NOA1 and your case hasn't been approved within the year....

Edited June 10, 2009 by Marilyn.