We serve immigration clients nationwide. Contact Us to schedule a consultation with one of our lawyers today.

Although immigration laws are strictly enforced in the U.S., the federal government can award conditional legal status. This typically happens when the spouse of a citizen or permanent resident is awarded a green card based on their marital relationship.

This conditional status does not have to last forever. It is possible to remove the conditions, although you also face the risk of deportation if you do not meet all requirements. Instead of facing this unfortunate outcome, let a dedicated immigration lawyer assist with removing conditions of residence in Lombard.

When are Green Cards Conditional?

Most people who become lawful permanent residents retain this status for years without having to meet specific requirements. Conditional green cards give you the same rights as any other permanent resident, but you face an increased risk of removal from the country.

This option is different in that the scope and duration of the visa is limited. Most green cards last for 10 years and can be renewed, effectively lasting for the rest of your life if you choose to stay. Conditional visas only last for two years, and there is no option for renewal in these cases.

The good news is that you can remove your conditional status while living in Lombard. When these efforts are successful, they provide you with the full protection of lawful permanent residency.

Removing Conditional Status

You have a limited amount of time to remove the conditional status on a green card. To transition to something permanent, the spouse of a citizen or resident needs to file Form I-751. An applicant must file this form within 90 days prior to the expiration of the conditional visa. Filing too late or early will result in a denial.

The nature of your marriage is crucial in these cases, as you and your spouse must show the relationship is real. If there are any signs the union is for immigration purposes, you could be deported. The United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) thoroughly reviews each case to ensure these relationships are genuine.

This is a subjective determination, and federal authorities rely on a wide range of factors to reach their conclusion about whether they will remove the conditions of residence in Lombard. They might evaluate your social media accounts or scrutinize how often you and your spouse were physically located in the same place. The existence of shared children will also lead credence to the relationship being real.

Failure to Remove the Conditions

If you are unable to remove these conditions on your residency, you risk being removed from the U.S. The government does not offer a grace period, meaning the moment the temporary visa expires there are grounds for deportation.

The end result is often being forcibly returned to your home country despite your marriage to a citizen or resident. Avoiding this harsh outcome is possible, but it helps to have the support of an attorney.

Speak to an Attorney in Lombard About Removing Conditions of Residence

If you or your spouse has conditions on their ability to live and work in the U.S., it is crucial that you seek legal counsel immediately. The sooner you act, the more likely you are to be successful in removing conditions of residence in Lombard. Call today to learn more.

Lead Counsel Rated
expertise
Illinois State Bar Association
American Immigration Lawyers Association
ASLA
DCBA