What Happens if Conditions Are Removed From a Green Card?

When conditions are successfully removed from a green card, the individual becomes a lawful permanent resident (LPR) without conditions. This is an important milestone in the U.S. immigration process, particularly for those who originally received a conditional green card through marriage or entrepreneurship.

Here’s what happens once the conditions are properly removed:

1. Issuance of a 10-Year Green Card

After U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) approves your Form I-751  (for marriage-based green cards) or Form I-829 (for investor green cards), you will receive a permanent resident card valid for 10 years. This card can be renewed indefinitely and confirms your status as a permanent resident.

2. Full Rights as a Permanent Resident

Once conditions are removed:

• You are no longer subject to the special rules that apply to conditional residents.
• You have the same rights and responsibilities as any other green card holder, including the right to work, travel, and live in the U.S. permanently.

3. Eligibility for U.S. Citizenship

After removing the conditions and holding unconditional permanent residency, you may become eligible to apply for U.S. citizenship through naturalization:

• Typically, after 3 years, if you’re married to a U.S. citizen
• After 5 years, if not

Meeting the required physical presence, good moral character, and residency criteria will be necessary.

4. No Longer at Risk of Automatic Deportation

Conditional permanent residents who fail to remove conditions risk losing their legal status and facing removal (deportation) proceedings. Once the conditions are removed:

• Your residency is secure
• You are no longer under the time-limited, conditional scrutiny of USCIS

5. No Need to File Another Petition

Unlike conditional residents, permanent residents with a 10-year green card do not need to file additional petitions to maintain their status, aside from renewing their green card every 10 years if desired.

In Summary:

When conditions are removed from a green card, it signifies that USCIS has confirmed the legitimacy of your initial residency basis (such as a bona fide marriage or a qualifying investment). You’re then granted full, permanent resident status, with all associated rights and fewer immigration-related obligations. This step brings you one major step closer to U.S. citizenship and long-term security in the United States.