Immigrants in Illinois who qualify for permanent residency may be issued a conditional green card initially. After two years, the conditional green card may be renewed without conditions. It is important that you remember to file the correct paperwork if you have a conditional green card that is going to expire.
Conditional green card for marriage
Conditional green cards are issued to spouses of U.S. citizens who apply for permanent residency when they have been married for less than two years. The conditions on the green card may be removed by filing Form I-751, Petition to Remove Conditions on Residence.
In addition to Form I-751, married couples will also have to present supporting evidence that their marriage is bona fide. Conditions on a green card will only be removed if immigration officials are satisfied that the marriage is a real relationship that is not being used to evade immigration laws.
Conditional green card for investors
People who are seeking permanent residency in the U.S. through investment may also be issued a conditional green card. To have conditions removed, investors must file Form I-829, Petition by Entrepreneur to Remove Conditions.
What happens if conditions are not removed?
If you have a conditional green card, you must file the correct petition to remove conditions within 90 days of its expiration date. Failure to complete the required paperwork will mean that your green card will expire, and you will lose your permanent residency. That means you could potentially be deported after your conditional green card expires. If you file your paperwork on time and correctly, you will most likely be issued a new green card without conditions that expires after 10 years.
