Conditional vs. Permanent Green Card: What’s the Difference?
Getting a green card is a major milestone—but not all green cards come with the same terms. One of the most common questions we hear at AG Law Firm is: "What’s the difference between a conditional green card and a permanent one?"
If you received your green card through marriage and had been married for less than two years when it was approved, you likely have a conditional green card.
Key Differences Between Conditional and Permanent Green Cards
Conditional Green Card:
Issued to individuals who obtained permanent residence through marriage to a U.S. citizen or resident and were married for less than 2 years at the time of approval.
Valid for 2 years only.
Requires further action to become permanent.
Permanent Green Card:
Issued for 10 years.
Can be renewed indefinitely.
· No requirement to prove the marriage again in order to renew
Conditional residencies are designed to prevent fraud and, therefore, require additional steps to verify that the marriage is real.
What Happens After the 2-Year Conditional Period?
Before your conditional green card expires, you must file Form I-751 (Petition to Remove Conditions on Residence). This is a critical step that must be done within the 90 days before your card expires.
Failing to file on time can lead to the termination of your lawful status and even removal proceedings. That’s why it’s essential to plan ahead and work with an attorney.
What Do You Need to File Form I-751?
You’ll need to submit:
A completed Form I-751
Evidence that the marriage is legitimate and ongoing (joint lease, utility bills, photos, tax returns, etc.)
A copy of your green card
There are additional evidence submissions required if filing with a waiver.
You can file:
Jointly, if you are still married
Individually, with a waiver, if the marriage ended due to divorce, abuse, or death of the spouse.
What If You're No Longer With Your Spouse?
You may still qualify to remove the conditions without jointly filing with your spouse if:
You entered the marriage in good faith, but it ended in divorce
You were abused or subjected to extreme cruelty (VAWA cases)
Your spouse passed away during the 2-year period
If you are separated or suffering abuse, you don't have to stay in a bad situation just to keep your legal status.
Can I Travel or Work with a Conditional Green Card?
Yes! Your conditional green card gives you the same rights as a permanent green card:
You can legally live and work in the U.S.
You can travel internationally (but avoid long trips abroad)
You can apply for a Social Security number and a driver’s license
But remember: if your card expires and you haven’t filed the I-751, your work and travel authorization may be at risk.
How AG Law Firm Can Help
Whether you're applying to remove conditions or navigating the process after a divorce, we’re here to guide you step by step. At AG Law Firm, we:
Prepare and file your I-751 package with strong evidence
Help you collect supporting documents
Represent you if an interview is required
Protect your rights if you're filing a waiver
We know that immigration can feel overwhelming—but you don’t have to do it alone.
Final Thoughts
A conditional green card is not the end—it’s just the beginning of your path to permanent residency. If you’re approaching the two-year mark or your relationship status has changed, let us help you take the next step with confidence.