What Is a Conditional Permanent Residence?

When you need resources or assistance with obtaining Conditional Permanent Residence, the Tadeo & Silva Immigration Attorneys can help. Contact us for advice.

How Do You Remove Conditions on a Conditional Permanent Resident Green Card?

There are two green card categories where green card holders are conditional permanent residents: EB-5 immigrant investors (employment category) and marriage-based green cards (family category).

Immigrant Investor

EB-5 immigrant investors can apply for the removal of conditions by filling out form I-829. They need to provide documents and proof that they have fulfilled the investment requirements. Upon approval, USCIS removes conditions of residence, and the foreign national becomes a permanent legal resident. 

Foreign National Spouse

For conditional permanent residents who received a green card through marriage, they have to apply for the removal of conditions. They must complete and submit form I- 751, which is usually filed jointly with their spouse, who is either a US citizen or a legal permanent resident.

Remember that before USCIS removes the conditions, you must prove that your marriage is in good faith. That means you should prove that you did not enter into a sham marriage. You have to confirm that you are building a life together.

If the petition is approved, USCIS removes the conditions, and the conditional permanent resident receives a permanent renewable 10-year green card. This also puts them on track to becoming U.S. citizens.

What if You Divorce?

If you get a divorce before your second anniversary, you can still apply for the removal of conditions on your residency. All you need to do is, request a waiver of the condition that requires the U.S. citizen or legal permanent resident spouse to jointly file the form with you.

However, you need to still prove that your marriage was in good faith and not to obtain permanent legal residence. You will also need to submit a copy of the final divorce decree or document terminating or annulling the marriage with your petition.

If applicable to your circumstances, you may want to prove that your spouse was the one at fault or that they are the ones who filed for a divorce. You can also prove that you took steps to salvage the marriage, such as marriage counseling and therapy.

What if Your Spouse Dies?

If your spouse dies before you apply for the removal of conditions, you are allowed to do it alone. You should attach a copy of their death certificate and provide proof of the life you had built together.

Can You Appeal if USCIS Denies Your Request for Removing Conditions?

Generally, there is no right to appeal in cases where the USCIS denies your form I-751 or form I-829. You will usually receive a decision explaining the reasons for the denial, along with a notice to appear in court for removal proceedings.

It is a good idea to consult with immigration lawyers to explore other possible solutions, such as filing motions to reopen or reconsider. They may also suggest seeking a review of the decision during the removal proceedings.

How Can an Immigration Lawyer Help You?

Filing for removal of conditions on residency should be taken seriously because of the high stakes involved. Additionally, errors and inconsistencies in your forms can increase the waiting time for approval or lead to denied green card renewal.

Our immigration lawyers are well-experienced, and they understand immigration laws in depth. Our attorneys will help you fill out your forms correctly and ensure you provide all the necessary documentation.

How long does it take to get a green card? What if USCIS denies my request for the removal of conditions? You may have such questions. Contact us today to know the answers to all this and more!