When you become a permanent resident in the U.S. you receive a 10-year green card. After that, when your 10-year green card is expired or will expire within the next 6 months, it's time to renew it. Now, before explaining the requisites to renew the green card and the documents that are required to complete the process, it is important to note that an expired green card doesn't mean you're no longer a lawful U.S. permanent resident. The green card is only the document that demonstrates your legal status in the United States. As long as you don't leave the U.S. establishing your residence anywhere else, you keep that status for life.
