If you received your green card through marriage to a U.S. citizen and your marriage was less than 2 years old at the time of approval, you were granted conditional permanent residence — a 2-year green card. To become a full permanent resident, you must file Form I-751 to remove the conditions.
Key Takeaway
File I-751 jointly with your spouse during the 90-day window before your conditional card expires. Filing fee: $750. If divorced, abused, or married in good faith but the marriage ended, you can file a waiver. DO NOT miss the filing window — your status will terminate.
Joint Filing (Standard)
Both spouses file together. Submit extensive evidence that your marriage is genuine: joint tax returns, joint bank accounts, lease/mortgage with both names, insurance policies, photos, birth certificates of children, and affidavits from friends and family.
Waiver Options
If you can't file jointly because you're divorced, your spouse is abusive, or your spouse refuses to sign, you may file an I-751 waiver. The three waiver categories are: (1) entered into marriage in good faith but it ended through divorce/annulment, (2) removal would result in extreme hardship, or (3) you entered the marriage in good faith but were subjected to abuse. Evidence requirements are higher for waivers.