Anybody who has applied for a Green Card understands that it can be a drawn out and often complicated process. Upon approval, some people receive what’s known as a ‘conditional’ status, which means that their Green Card is only valid for two years. Those who wish to remain in the country for longer than these two years must go through a process that removes these conditions attached to their Green Card. The condition removal process isn’t always easy, but by taking a look at these tips and hiring an immigration lawyer, you can make it as easy as possible. Here are just a few tips for removing the conditions on your Green Card.
File Early
First, those who are issued a family-based conditional Green Card have to fill out and submit Form I-751. This is the Petition to Remove Conditions on Residence. This form must be submitted by the time your Green Card has 90 days until expiration. Keep in mind that this form mustn’t be filed too early, either, as officials may simply send your paperwork back. Filing this form early enough — but not too early — can help expedite the conditional removal process.
You should also know that there is a separate form for those who have been issued a Green Card with entrepreneur-based conditions — Form I-829 — the Petition by Entrepreneur to Remove Conditions. Whichever situation applies to you, remember to file the proper form within the 90-day window.
Be Prepared For Potential Interviews
Officials at the USCIS may want to interview you or collect biometrics (photo and fingerprints) based on the information on your form. When they respond to your inquiry, simply follow their instructions carefully and be honest. Don’t be afraid to hire an immigration lawyer to help make the process as easy as possible.
The number of foreign-born individuals in the U.S. population has more than quadrupled since 1965 and is expected to reach 78 million by 2065. Keep in mind that since a Green Card cannot be renewed, understanding this process is essential to continuing to live and work in the United States legally once it expires. For more information about the best immigration lawyers in Las Vegas, contact Reeves Immigration Law Group.
