A conditional permanent resident receives a green card that is valid for 2 years. In order to remain a permanent resident and stay in the U.S., they must file a petition to remove the condition during the 90 days before the green card expires. Because the conditional green card cannot be renewed, the conditions must be removed or permanent resident status will be lost. Removing conditions from a conditional permanent resident card is a pivotal step toward full permanent residency. If you're married to a citizen spouse or lawful permanent resident, this process allows you to prove that your marriage is genuine and secure your conditional permanent resident status. If the conditions aren’t removed, the green card will expire, leaving the individual’s legal status in limbo. The process of removing conditions — typically done within the 90-day period before the card expires — serves as proof that the marriage is still genuine and ongoing.
Eligibility
Generally, you may apply to remove conditions on permanent residence if any of the following conditions are true:
1. You’ve been married to the same US citizen or permanent resident for at least two years (your children may be included if they received conditional resident status concurrently or within 90 days).
2. You're a child and cannot be included in your parents' application for a valid reason.
3. You're a widow or widower of a US citizen, and your marriage was genuine.
4. Your marriage ended through divorce or annulment.
5. You or your child experienced abuse or extreme cruelty by your U.S. citizen or permanent resident spouse.
6. Termination of your conditional status would cause you extreme hardship.