Green Cards Explained by Our Immigration Lawyer in Philadelphia, PA
A green card, also known as a Permanent Resident Card, is often the goal of most individuals seeking the help of an immigration lawyer in Philadelphia, PA. This is because a green card allows you to live and work permanently in the United States without worrying about renewing a visa or job through other hoops to remain a citizen. There are many ways to obtain a green card, with one of the most common categories being through a “green card through family.” The most common way of getting a green card through family is marriage. However, when most people receive their marriage green card, they may be surprised to discover it is set to expire after just two years. Others may receive a 10-year green card, similarly expiring after a decade.
This can be a very confusing process and, even after receiving a green card, a person who does not follow the terms could be subjected to a removal proceeding after 2 or 10 years. Fortunately, individuals applying for a green card or who currently hold a 2-year or 10-year green card have the immigration law firm of MC Law Group, LLC to help guide them through the process. Our experienced immigration lawyers in Philadelphia, PA, can help applicants through any stage of the green card process. To learn more, please call our office to schedule your free consultation.
What is a 2-Year Green Card?
You are eligible for a green card through family, specifically marriage. You complete the paperwork and pass the physical, interview, and other necessary steps. Your application has been approved, and you receive your marriage green card in the mail. However, it is a 2-year green card and set to expire in just two years. Is something wrong?
No—not at all.
When you apply for a marriage green card but you and your spouse have been married for less than two years at the time your green card was approved, you will receive a “conditional” green card. This green card is only valid for two years since it was issued. After the two years, you will need to apply for a “removal of conditions” to obtain a longer-duration green card. This application must be submitted within 90 days of the expiration period.
After Removal of Conditions on My 2-Year Green Card, What Is Next?
Once you are within 90 days of the expiration of your 2-year green card, you will have to apply for a removal of conditions. If approved, your removal of conditions will result in the issuance of a 10-year green card. The 10-year green card is the normal marriage green card that is renewable in 10-year periods.
Are My Rights Different as a 2-Year or 10-Year Green Card Holder?
No, your rights as a 2-year green card holder are not different from any other permanent resident—you still have the same rights and privileges. The only difference is that your citizenship is conditional based on the duration of your marriage and, if you can prove you are still married for more than two years with the appropriate evidence, you should receive a 10-year green card without issue.
Are You Having Problems With Your Green Card Application or Renewal? We Can Help
Call our immigration attorneys in Philadelphia, PA, if you are having issues with your green card. Whether you have applied, been denied, your renewal is not going as expected, you are facing removal proceedings, or you are having any other issues regarding your green card, the immigration law firm of MC Law Group, LLC can help. To learn more, call (215) 496-0690 to schedule your free consultation or send us a message on our private and confidential “contact us” box available here.