If you marry a U.S. Citizen or Permanent Resident, you may get resident status based on that marriage. If your marriage is less than 2 years old, you get conditional resident status instead of Permanent Resident status. Conditional resident status lasts 2 years, and the conditional resident card is good for only 2 years (sometimes called a “two-year green card”). Conditional resident status is different than permanent resident status. Permanent Resident status doesn’t expire. The Permanent Resident card is good for 10 years then has to be replaced.
If you have conditional resident status and want to get Permanent Resident status, file Form I‑751, Petition to Remove Conditions on Residence. Note: conditional residents should NOT file form I-90. If you are still married, the 2 of you will file form I-751 together during the 90-day period before the expiration date on your conditional resident card.
But, if your spouse is abusive or emotionally cruel, or if the marriage has ended, you can file Form I-751 by yourself. It is best to file before the card expires. If you are filing by yourself, you don't need to wait until 90 days before the card expires. In some cases you might be able to file after your conditional resident card expires.
If you don’t file the I-751 before your card expires, you could be placed in removal, or immigration court proceedings.
