Does a person who has a green card for permanent residence issued in 1954 need to renew the card?

I have no idea how USCIS would react that to that particular renewal request. However, I can tell you that the felony might trigger removal proceedings depending on its nature. I have a client who pleaded guilty to having a less than a gram of cocaine (simple possession). We discussed the matter thoroughly. Technically, he is removable because of the controlled substance felony, but we think that an IJ would not order him deported, and my client is prepared to fight this in immigration court (if need be). He is a long time permanent resident. The green card renewal does not ask for criminal convictions; we are waiting to see what happens. This is a very tricky area. Not renewing a green card does not mean that you are out of status or illegal. But it can complicate renewing a driver's license, etc.

The person should have a conversation with an immigration attorney. In confidence. As for the question of renewal, the best answer I ever read on that question was that Congress initially said the cards were for indefinite period, and then they redefined indefinite to mean 10 years. I like the story anyway. You need to renew the card every 10 years. After a conversation with an expert.

Hello, A few years ago, USCIS started to implement a requirement to renew the old "permanent" green cards. However, for various reasons, they backed off from that plan, and are not yet requiring renewal of the old cards for those whose cards do not have an expiration date. USCIS indicates on their website that they do recommend the old cards be renewed, however. Before you do that, though .... I strongly agree with my colleagues that it is not advisable for anyone with criminal history to apply for a new resident card or have any contact with Immigration authorities for any reason without first consulting an experienced immigration attorney. Certain criminal convictions can lead to revocation of residency and being placed in Immigration Court removal (deportation) proceedings, so applicants with criminal history need a careful evaluation of that history to determine the possible risks and consequences. Otherwise, instead of a new resident card, an applicant could find that he/she received an Immigration Court hearing notice. Best wishes, Jennifer