Remove Conditions
on a Green Card
Some green cards have special conditions placed on them and are only valid for two years. These are issued to people who qualify either by being married to a United States citizen or because they’re entrepreneurs.
If you have a two-year green card, you must take one more important step before your residency becomes permanent. This step is a process called removing conditions from a green card, which every conditional green card holder must complete to maintain lawful permanent status in the United States.
Below is a guide to help you understand how and when to remove conditions from a green card based on marriage—and how legal guidance can make a big difference.
Table of Contents
Request Help Today
Get the Immigration Assistance You Deserve And
Schedule Your Consultation Today!
4.9 Google Rating
We have a 4.9 Star Rating with over 30 reviews on Google!
Woman Owned
We are a woman-owned company and proudly committed.
Native Spanish Speaker
Natalia Darancou was born and raised in El Paso, Texas to Mexican-American parents and is a native Spanish speaker.
Memberships
Member of the New York State Bar, Texas State Bar, and a member of the American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA).
What Does it Mean to Remove Conditions from a Green Card?
When a green card is based on a marriage that’s fewer than two years old, the green card is issued on a conditional basis. It’s valid for two years and cannot be renewed. To stay in the U.S., you must file a petition with United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to remove those conditions and request a 10-year permanent green card.
Failing to file on time can result in the loss of your legal status and possible removal proceedings.
When to File
You must file your petition to remove conditions from your green card during the 90 days before your green card expires. USCIS will not accept applications filed too early, and missing the deadline can have serious consequences.
We recommend setting reminders and working with your legal team well before the filing window.
How to Remove Conditions from a Green Card
You will need to submit documentation proving that your marriage is legitimate. You will need to:
- File Form I-751
The form you’ll need for this is Form I-751, Petition to Remove Conditions on Residence. This can be filed jointly with your spouse. If your marriage has ended or filing jointly isn’t possible, you may still be able to file on your own with a waiver.
- Include Strong Supporting Evidence
The success of your petition depends on proving your relationship is real. Good supporting evidence may include:
- Joint tax returns
- Mortgage or lease documents in both names
- Utility or insurance bills
- Shared bank account statements
- Photos of you and your spouse over time
- Birth certificates of any children
- Travel records or event invitations
USCIS wants to see a pattern of shared life and responsibilities. Your legal team can help organize your documents for the strongest case possible.
- Submit the Filing Fee
As of this writing, the filing fee for Form I-751 is $750, which does not include any biometric services fees. Fees may change, so it’s always best to confirm the latest amount before filing.
- Mail the Application
Your completed Form I-751, documents, and fees must be mailed to the correct USCIS lockbox. Always send copies, not originals, and keep a full copy of your application for your records.
Don't Risk Your Future By Taking On The Process Alone!
Filing Without a Spouse
If you’re no longer married, you may still be able to remove conditions from your green card by requesting a waiver of the joint filing requirement. Common reasons include:
- Divorce or annulment
- Death of a spouse
- Abuse or battery during the marriage
- Extreme hardship if removed from the U.S.
In these cases, it’s critical to include detailed documentation. Our attorneys can assist clients in filing I-751 waivers and navigating these more complex issues.
After You File
Once USCIS receives your petition to remove conditions from your green card, you will be issued a receipt notice, Form I-797. This automatically extends your conditional green card for up to 48 months while your case is reviewed.
You will also be scheduled for a biometrics appointment, where your fingerprints and photo will be taken.
Most cases are approved without an interview. However, USCIS may request additional evidence or schedule a personal interview with you and your spouse. If so, preparation is key, and legal representation can help.
How Long Does It Take?
Processing times can vary depending on the USCIS service center, but most I-751 petitions take 12 to 24 months. During that time, your receipt notice serves as proof of your legal status. You can continue living and working in the U.S. while your case is pending.
What if the Petition is Denied?
If your application to remove conditions from a green card is denied, USCIS will explain the reason. You may be placed in removal proceedings, but you’ll have the opportunity to present your case before an immigration judge.
Legal support is crucial in these situations. Our team is here to represent you and explore all available options, including refiling or appealing the decision.
Schedule a Consultation with an Immigration Lawyer
Removing conditions from a green card is a key step in your immigration journey. Whether you’re filing jointly with a spouse or requesting a waiver, the process is much smoother with guidance from experienced professionals.
At Natalia Darancou Law, PLLC, we’re proud to help clients protect their status and move forward with confidence. If you have questions or are approaching your 90-day filing window, don’t wait—contact us today to schedule a consultation.
.png){kind=small}