Removal of Conditions -
Form I-751
Removing Conditions on Your 2-Year Green Card: What You Need to Know
If you received a 2-year marriage-based green card, it’s not truly “permanent” yet. To keep your status, you’ll need to remove the conditions before it expires. Skipping this step could cause you to lose your green card entirely.
Here’s a quick guide to help you understand who needs to apply, when to apply, and how to do it.
Who Needs to File?
You must file to remove conditions if:
You got your green card through marriage to a U.S. citizen or green card holder.
Your marriage was less than 2 years old when you got your card.
Your card says “CR1” or “CR6” (or “CF1”/“CF6” for dependent children).
When to File
You must apply in the 90 days before your green card expires — not earlier and definitely not later.
Example: If your card expires October 15, 2025, your filing window is July 17–October 15, 2025.
Filing late without a good reason could lead to losing your green card and being placed in removal proceedings.
How to Apply
You’ll need to file Form I-751 with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
There are two ways to file:
Jointly with your spouse if you’re still married and living together.
As a waiver if you’re divorced, widowed, separated due to abuse, or in other qualifying situations.
Steps:
Fill out Form I-751.
Gather proof your marriage is real — joint bank statements, taxes, lease/mortgage, insurance, photos, kids’ birth certificates, and affidavits from friends/family.
Pay the fee.
Mail it to the right USCIS address for your state.
Keep the receipt notice — it extends your status for up to 48 months while your case is pending.
What Happens Next
USCIS may call you for a biometrics appointment.
You could receive a Request for Evidence (RFE) if they need more documents.
An interview may be required, though strong cases can be approved without one.
If approved, you’ll get a 10-year green card.
Pro Tips
Start collecting evidence months before your filing window opens.
Keep documents organized and labeled.
Don’t ignore USCIS notices — deadlines matter.
If you’re filing without your spouse, or have other complications, speak to an immigration attorney before filing.
Bottom line: The removal of conditions process is your chance to secure your full permanent residency. File on time, send strong evidence, and you’ll be well on your way to a 10-year green card.
Got questions about filing I-751 for Removal of Conditions? Call us at 516-208-2060 for a consultation.
