Okay, pal, so you’ve had your conditional green card in the bag for almost two years now, and the expiration date is getting close. You are probably thinking, just like I did back then, that it’s time for a green card renewal. Nope, this is different, my friend. We are applying with USCIS to remove the conditions on your green card so you can now receive the permanent green card.
The permanent green card is valid for ten years (Yippee!). The conditional green card in your bag is valid for only two years. Okay, I know, it’s not literally in your bag. I mean, who keeps a green card in their bag? more like somewhere safe with your important documents, such as passports and birth certificates. If you do keep it in your bag, no judgment here (I am 100% judging you, lol.). Okay, less of my babbling, and let’s dive into the important stuff.
When to file the green card renewal?
If you are not sure when to file exactly, just click here, scroll to the bottom, and click on the filing date calculator. You can then enter the expiration date on your green card. You have to make sure you file within 90 days before your green card expires. If you file earlier than that, your application will be rejected. We don’t need that extra stress in our lives. We are all about saving money, applying only once, and getting it right. If you file late, you have to include a request to excuse your late filing and explain that you had good reasons for filing late. Again, just avoid that kind of stress and go ahead and put a reminder on your phone 90 days before your green card expires. Hopefully, you are not reading this blog post too late.
What forms do I need for my green card condition removal?
So, now that we know exactly when to file, Let’s move on to the forms that we must file. Right now, all you have to do is complete the form I-751, which is a petition to remove the conditions on your green card. You can find this form on the USCIS.GOV website. I always make sure to read the Form I-751 instructions carefully before completing it. This will serve as a helpful guide to assist you fill out each box. Please take the time to read these forms. I submitted my application fully relying on these forms.
Where do I send my application to renew my conditional green card?
To know where to send your application, click here. Then scroll down to the table below and find the state you live in and the corresponding address to mail in your application. For example, since I reside in Texas, the address I will be mailing my application would be the Arizona address listed in the box next to it.
Online filing option for green card condition removal?
As of June 26, 2024, there is no option to file this form online, but I’m pretty sure sometime soon that option will be available, making the filing process easier and simpler.
These applications can be very expensive, so you want to make sure you do it correctly. I remember spending roughly $750 for mine, but prices are constantly increasing, so always check what the current rates are. To do this, go to USCIS.GOV and search for Form I-751 (petition to remove conditions on residence), then scroll to the bottom and click on filing fee, followed by the fee schedule. Simple, right?
What is the current green card processing time?
To know the average green card processing time for this application, click here and fill out the boxes. I sent in my application in January 2022, and as of June 26, 2024, it is still pending. I did, however, send in a new application for citizenship once I was eligible. So I have that processing too. Hopefully, I hear something back soon.
Required evidence to submit for the petition to remove conditions on green card:
- A copy of your permanent resident card (front and back)
- Copy of Marriage certificate
- Current lease/mortgage
- Bills with both spouses’ names on it
- Credit card statements with both names
- Bank statements
- Health insurance
- Car insurance
- Birth certificate of children (if any)
Applying to remove conditions on the green card after divorce
- All documents listed above and:
- Divorce Decree
- Evidence showing why the marriage ended
I have no experience with applying after divorce, abuse, or the death of a spouse. So I strongly recommend contacting a lawyer for such cases. My case was straightforward because I applied while I was still married. The lawyer can properly guide you as to what documents to submit to prove your case.
As you can see, most of the evidence I submitted above are just some of the same evidence I submitted with my I-485 application, but with more current dates. For instance, I submitted my most recent bank statements with this application. If you want to see the evidence I included in my previous application, check out my post on how to apply for a green card here.
With that said, comment below and let me know how your application journey is going, and join our mailing list for a weekly newsletter for more tips on applying.
