Form I-751: Removal of Conditions on Residence

Secure Your 10-Year Green Card

If you received your green card through marriage to a U.S. citizen or permanent resident, you may have been granted conditional permanent resident status valid for two years. To remain a lawful permanent resident and receive a 10-year green card, you must file Form I-751, Petition to Remove Conditions on Residence, during the 90 days before your conditional green card expires.

Why Do I Have a Conditional Green Card?

USCIS issues a 2-year conditional green card to help ensure that marriages used for immigration purposes are genuine. This applies if:

  • You were married for less than two years when your green card was approved.

  • You entered the U.S. on a K-1 fiancé(e) visa, married within 90 days, and then adjusted status.

By filing Form I-751 and showing that your marriage is bona fide and ongoing (or was genuine if it ended in divorce or due to abuse), you can remove the conditions and keep your permanent resident status.

Who Must File Form I-751?

Most people must file jointly with their spouse if still married. This means:
✅ You and your spouse file together during the 90-day window before your green card expires.
✅ You must prove that your marriage is real and was not entered into just for immigration benefits.

What If You Can’t File Jointly?

If you’re no longer married, or if you’ve been abused or subjected to extreme cruelty by your spouse or stepparent, you may file Form I-751 on your own by requesting a waiver of the joint filing requirement. Waivers are available if:
✅ Your marriage was entered in good faith but ended in divorce or annulment.
✅ You or your child were battered or subjected to extreme cruelty.
✅ Terminating your status and removal from the U.S. would cause extreme hardship.

What You Need to Prove

To remove conditions, you must show your marriage is (or was) genuine. Evidence often includes:

  • Joint bank accounts and tax returns.

  • Mortgage or lease documents showing shared residence.

  • Birth certificates of children together.

  • Photos, travel records, or correspondence.

  • Affidavits from friends or family who know your relationship is real.

Filing Timeline and Next Steps

Timing is critical: You must file Form I-751 during the 90 days before your conditional green card expires.
✅ Once you file, USCIS will issue a receipt notice that extends your status for up to 48 months while your petition is pending.
✅ You may be asked to attend a biometrics appointment and possibly an interview to verify your relationship.
✅ When approved, you’ll receive a 10-year green card — removing the conditions on your residency.

What Happens If You Miss the Deadline?

Failing to file on time can result in automatic termination of your conditional status and removal proceedings. If you have a valid reason for missing the window, you may submit a late petition with a written explanation — but it’s critical to get legal help immediately.

How USCIS Expert Helps

Filing Form I-751 can be stressful, especially if your relationship changed or you need a waiver. At USCIS Expert, we:
✅ Determine if you qualify for joint filing or need a waiver.
✅ Help gather strong evidence to prove your marriage was real.
✅ Prepare and submit your I-751 petition correctly and on time.
✅ Communicate with USCIS on your behalf and prepare you for any interview.
✅ Provide clear, compassionate guidance to help you secure your 10-year green card with confidence.

Protect Your Green Card — Secure Your Future

Removing conditions on your residence is a vital final step toward permanent residency in the U.S. Let USCIS Expert handle the details so you can focus on your future.

Contact us today to ensure your I-751 is filed correctly, on time, and supported by the evidence you need to keep your permanent resident status.