Status of Greencard at time of applying for Naturalization?

[screwedupcase]

Hello,

Is it necessary while applying for citizenship that the status of the greencard should be current and active? If my GC expires in September 2011 and I am eligible to apply for citizenship in Jan 2012 and don't have any plans for traveling outside the country until end of 2012 - can I just drop the idea of renewing my GC and directly apply for citizenship?​

Thanks!

 

[Jackolantern]

If my GC expires in September 2011 and I am eligible to apply for citizenship in Jan 2012 and don't have any plans for traveling outside the country until end of 2012 - can I just drop the idea of renewing my GC and directly apply for citizenship?

If you apply for naturalization after your GC has already expired, or you apply for naturalization with less than 6 months remaining on the GC, you are expected to renew the green card. Some interviewers may accept the expired card, but the stricter ones will insist that you renew the card, and will delay your case until you provide proof of applying for renewal or the new card itself.

 

[screwedupcase]

Thanks Jackolantern!