For how many years is the I-551 document issued?

The I-551 document, commonly known as a Permanent Resident Card (Green Card), is typically issued for a period of 10 years. This duration reflects the government's requirement for ongoing verification of residency status and eligibility. Although it is a document that attests to a person’s permanent residency in the United States, it must be renewed every decade to ensure that the information is current and to maintain the integrity of the immigration process.

While certain categories of lawful permanent residents receive cards that do not have an expiration (indefinitely), the standard I-551 provided to most permanent residents is indeed valid for 10 years, necessitating renewal as part of maintaining legal permanent residency status. This timeframe ensures that authorities can periodically review a resident’s eligibility for continued status in the U.S.