Removing Conditions on a Marriage-Based Green Card (Form I-751)

If you got your green card through a marriage that was less than two years old at approval, you likely received a conditional green card valid for two years, not the standard ten.

Why conditions exist

Conditional green cards exist so USCIS can confirm the marriage is genuine before granting a standard, unconditional green card. It's a documentation step, not a sign anything is wrong with your case.

Filing Form I-751

Generally, you and your spouse jointly file Form I-751 during the 90-day window before your conditional card expires, along with evidence the marriage is ongoing and genuine — things like joint finances, shared leases, and photos over time.

If the marriage has ended

If you're divorced, widowed, or the marriage ended for another qualifying reason, you may be able to request a waiver of the joint filing requirement and file Form I-751 on your own, with additional evidence supporting your case.

Get help early

Because the evidence requirements and waiver categories are detailed, and the stakes (losing status) are high, most applicants — especially those filing a waiver — benefit from working with a licensed immigration attorney well before the deadline.