Keep your Green Card!

Removal of Conditions (I-751)

Keeping your Green Card, and gettig a 10 Year Green Card can be complex for married or divorced applicants

FAQ

What is Form I-751 for?

To renew a 2-year green card to a 10-year one, USCIS will review whether the marriage on which the green card was based was bona fide.

What if my marriage is not going well?

You can still keep your lawful permanent residency. There are waiver options, such as if you fear returning to your home country, were a victim of abuse by your spouse, or if the relationship was real but just did not work out (a divorce may be needed for this).

When do I need to file for Removal of Conditions?

In the 90-day window before the 2-year expiration mark. Try our calculator here.

What if my miss the deadline?

It is possible to file a case after missing a deadline. USCIS has to approve for couple-based cases with a written request with explanation. Waiver cases are not bound by the deadline. However, missing a deadline can lead to receiving a court hearing in immigration court, so you want to avoid missing the deadline. Check out this video for more info: https://youtu.be/pJEY9WYXaw8

How long does the process take?

These cases take between 6 months to 3 years (usually between 2-3 years), unless a Naturalization case (Citizenshp) speeds it up.

Do I lose my Green Card if it expires?

If you timely file Form I-751, removal of conditions, you will get a receipt notice that acts as a 48 month extension.

Will there by an interview?

The Trump administration is re-instituing interviews, so many cases will have this requirement.

Can I file for Citizenship while this case is pending?

For those that have been married and living with a U.S. Citizen for 3-years in the U.S. after getting the Green Card, may be able to apply for citizenship while this case is pending.

How much does it cost?

The current government fee is $750. Attorney fees range from $3,500-$6,000, plus additional fees if a complex Request for Evidece (RFE) or interview appearance is requested by the client. Note that the higher fees apply to cases with less relationship evidence and/or waiver cases where the applicat is not applying with their spouse.

How can I hire you to help in this process?

Fill out our quick contact page for us to send you info on scheduling the initial consultation: JQKLaw.com/Contact


Case Studies for Divorce Waiver cases

Divorce after Filing Removal – a Waiver Story

I-751 Success: Case Study of a Fast Approval in 2024


Top Tips


📝 I-751 Removal of Conditions on Green Card – What You Need to Know

If you received your green card through marriage and it was valid for only two years, you are a conditional permanent resident. To remain in the U.S. and continue your path toward citizenship, you must file Form I-751, Petition to Remove Conditions on Residence—and you must do it on time.

Our immigration law firm helps clients across the U.S. and globally navigate the this process with confidence.


📅 When to File

You must file your I-751 within the 90-day window before your conditional green card expires.

  • Filed too early? USCIS will reject it.
  • Filed too late? You risk losing your status and being placed in removal proceedings (deportation).

Timing is critical—we help you get it right.


👥 Joint Filing vs. Waiver Filing

✅ Joint Petition (Still Married)

If you’re still married to the same U.S. citizen or permanent resident spouse, you’ll file the petition together.

✅ Waiver Petition (If You’re No Longer Married or Have Issues)

You may still be eligible to remove conditions even if you’re no longer with your spouse. USCIS allows a waiver of the joint filing requirement if:

  • You divorced after entering the marriage in good faith
  • You or your child were battered or subjected to extreme cruelty
  • You would suffer extreme hardship if removed from the U.S.

We can help determine which filing is best for your situation.


📁 What Evidence Do You Need?

The goal is to prove that your marriage was real and not for immigration purposes.

You’ll need to submit strong evidence such as:

  • Joint lease or mortgage
  • Shared bank accounts or insurance policies
  • Photos together
  • Birth certificates of children (if any)
  • Affidavits from friends and family
  • Travel records, communication logs, etc.

We work closely with you to build a compelling, well-organized packet tailored to your relationship and circumstances.


❗ What Happens If You Don’t File?

Failing to file properly and on time could result in:

  • Loss of your permanent residency
  • Initiation of removal proceedings
  • Ineligibility for future immigration benefits

Don’t risk it. Let our experienced team help protect your status.


🔍 How We Help

We’ve guided hundreds of clients—nationwide and internationally—through the I-751 process. Here’s how we can assist you:

  • ✅ Identify whether you need a joint or waiver petition
  • ✅ Organize and prepare your evidence
  • ✅ Draft clear affidavits
  • ✅ Respond to RFEs (Requests for Evidence)
  • ✅ Help you prepare for any USCIS interviews, if required

🌍 Work With Us Remotely

No matter where you live, we can handle your petition digitally through:

  • Secure document sharing
  • Phone and video consultations
  • Electronic communication and case tracking

We’re based in Los Angeles, California, but we assist clients from all over the U.S. and the world.


📞 Ready to Remove the Conditions on Your Green Card?

Don’t wait until the deadline is near.
[📩 Contact us today] to see if we can help extend your residency.
If your case is a good fit, we’ll send you a link to schedule a consultation.
Fees apply depending on the complexity of your case.


Contact Us

John and his team have helped thousands successfully navigate complex immigration cases. Ready to get trusted answers for yours?