Conditional Permanent Resident
A conditional permanent resident is a green card holder whose permanent residence lasts two years and must be made permanent by filing to remove conditions. It applies to people who got a green card through a marriage less than two years old, and to EB-5 investors.
Removing the conditions
Marriage-based conditional residents file Form I-751 in the 90 days before the card expires, usually together with their spouse. EB-5 investors file Form I-829.
If you miss the deadline without a good reason, your status can end and you may be placed in removal proceedings. If the marriage ended or there was abuse, you can ask to waive the joint-filing requirement.
Conditional residents have the same rights as other lawful permanent residents while the card is valid, including work and travel, and the time counts toward naturalization. See removing conditions.
Frequently asked questions
When do I file to remove conditions?
In the 90-day window before your 2-year green card expires.
Does conditional residence count toward citizenship?
Yes. Time as a conditional resident counts toward the residence required for naturalization.
What if we divorced before filing the I-751?
You can file alone with a waiver, showing the marriage was real. Talk to an immigration lawyer.
Official sources
- USCIS: Conditional permanent residenceuscis.gov
- USCIS: Form I-751uscis.gov
General information, not legal advice. NorthAmericans.com is independent and not affiliated with any government.