How to Remove Conditions on Green Card

If you were granted a green card after being married for less than 2 years, you were granted conditional permanent resident status.

This means that you are only allowed to live and work in the United States for two years. After this period, you must apply to remove conditions on green card or potentially face deportation.

As a former U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) service officer, Marron Gebremeskel deeply understands the removal of conditions green card process. Schedule a consultation with the Law Office of Marron Gebremeskel, PLLC, for personalized advice.

What is a Conditional Green Card?

A conditional green card lasts for 2 years. It is granted to immigrants who obtain permanent residency either through marriage to a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident and were not married for 2 years at the time they were granted resident status.

The conditions are in place to prevent people from getting married for immigration benefits. This is illegal. If you are in a genuine marriage, you should have no problems removing the conditions on your green card.

Why Should Immigrants Remove Conditions on Green Cards?

Immigrants must remove conditions on green cards to transition from "conditional" to "permanent" resident status and to avoid deportation from the United States.

If you're a conditional green card holder, you must apply to remove conditions of permanent residence within 90 days before it expires. Your green card cannot be renewed. Failure to remove the conditions will mean losing your permanent residence status, requiring you to leave the United States.

Removal of Conditions - Green Card from Marriage

To keep a marriage green card, you must stay married to the same spouse and prove the marriage wasn’t solely for immigration purposes. However, exceptions exist if the relationship ends. If you're no longer married but want to retain your permanent resident status, consult attorney Marron Gebremeskel to help you remove conditions of permanent residence.

Removal of Conditions Green Card Process

Step 1: File Forms

Form I-751 (Petition to Remove Conditions on Residence) is used exclusively for conditional green card holders who gained their status through marriage. Both spouses must complete the form together with their signatures.

Step 2: File During the Correct Timeframe

Form I-751 must be submitted 90 days before your conditional green card expires. Filing outside this window could lead to delays or denial.

Step 3: Gather Supportive Evidence

USCIS will need proof to determine that your marriage is genuine, which may include the following:

  • Joint bank account statements

  • Medical bills showing both of your names and shared address

  • An insurance policy listing the other spouse as the beneficiary

  • Shared lease or mortgage agreements

  • Birth certificates for any children born during the marriage

  • Family photos such as birthdays, weddings, vacations, etc.

  • I-751 Affidavits, written by friends or family, can help prove a genuine marriage when other evidence is limited.

Exceptions can apply if you’re no longer married but were in a legitimate relationship. For example, divorce, abuse, or spousal death may require additional documentation and explanations.

Step 4: Pay the Necessary Fees

At the time of writing, the cost of filing Form I-751 is $750.You can check the USCIS fee schedule to keep yourself updated on the filing fees.

Step 5: Attend the Biometrics Appointment

Once your application is filed, you’ll be scheduled to attend a biometrics appointment. USCIS will collect your fingerprints, photo, and signature during this appointment.

Step 6: Wait for Processing and Attend Interviews

Removal of conditions for green card applications often takes several months to process. Occasionally, applicants are called for an interview, mainly if USCIS requires clarification about the case. Stay prepared and keep in touch with your attorney throughout this stage for updates.

How much does a lawyer cost for I-751 applications?

With extensive experience as an immigration lawyer and a former USCIS officer, Marron Gebremeskel offers valuable insights into managing Form I-751 applications.

While the expense varies based on case complexity, hiring an attorney often saves applicants time and stress, ensuring professional handling of unforeseen obstacles.

During a consultation, we can provide more specific information on how much a lawyer will cost for a I-751 application.

Schedule a Consultation with The Law Office of Marron Gebremeskel

Taking the correct steps to remove conditions of permanent residence can safeguard your future in the U.S. If you’re feeling overwhelmed by the process or require expert guidance, Marron Gebremeskel and her team are here to help. Schedule a consultation to let us hear your case, and we will ensure it is processed on time.