What Are the Benefits of Removing Conditions?
Removing conditions on your green card by filing Form I-751 gives you several important benefits as a lawful permanent resident in the U.S.:
1. Receive a 10-Year Permanent Green Card
- Conditional green cards are valid for 2 years.
- Once conditions are removed, you get a 10-year green card, which is renewable.
2. Secure Long-Term Residency
- You maintain your lawful permanent resident (LPR) status.
- You can live, work, and study anywhere in the U.S. without fear of your conditional status expiring.
3. Eligibility for U.S. Citizenship
- Removing conditions allows you to count time toward naturalization.
- After 3 years (married to a U.S. citizen) or 5 years (otherwise), you may apply for U.S. citizenship.
4. Ability to Travel Freely
- You can travel outside the U.S. and re-enter using your new 10-year green card without needing special extensions.
5. Protects Against Deportation
- A conditional status can create vulnerability if your marriage ends or issues arise.
- Removing conditions ensures your status is stable and less likely to be questioned.
6. Access to Benefits
- You remain eligible for social security, employment benefits, and other programs available to permanent residents.
In short, removing conditions provides you with security, flexibility, and a clear path toward citizenship, while also protecting your legal residency in the U.S.
Also, read > > How Do I Remove Conditional Green Card after Divorce?
