Becoming a permanent resident of the United States through marriage is an exciting and life-changing event. However, it’s important to remember that this status is not automatically permanent. If you obtained your green card through marriage to a U.S. citizen or permanent resident, you will initially be granted conditional permanent residence. This means that your green card is only valid for two years and you will need to take additional steps to remove the conditions and make your residency permanent.
The process of removing conditions on permanent residence based on marriage can seem daunting, but it’s an important step in securing your future in the United States. The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has provided a helpful guide on their website outlining the necessary steps and requirements.
The first step in this process is to file Form I-751, Petition to Remove Conditions on Residence. This form must be filed within the 90-day period before your conditional green card expires. It is important to file on time, as failure to do so could result in the termination of your permanent resident status.
Along with the form, you will need to submit evidence that your marriage is still valid and was not entered into solely for the purpose of obtaining a green card. This can include documents such as joint bank account statements, lease or mortgage agreements, birth certificates of any children born during the marriage, and photographs of you and your spouse together.
If you and your spouse are still married and living together, you can file the petition jointly. However, if you are no longer married or have divorced, you can file the petition on your own and request a waiver of the joint filing requirement. In this case, you will need to provide evidence of the validity of your marriage, as well as any extenuating circumstances that led to the end of the marriage.
Once your petition is submitted, USCIS may request additional evidence or schedule an interview with you and your spouse. It is important to respond to any requests in a timely manner and attend any scheduled interviews.
If your petition is approved, you will receive a new permanent green card with a validity of 10 years. However, if your petition is denied, you may be placed in removal proceedings. It is important to consult with an immigration attorney if you encounter any issues during this process.
Overall, the process of removing conditions on permanent residence based on marriage is a necessary step in securing your permanent status in the United States. It’s important to carefully follow the guidelines provided by USCIS and provide thorough evidence of the validity of your marriage. With patience and diligence, you can successfully remove the conditions on your green card and continue to build a life in the United States with your loved one.