If you adjusted your status because you are married, you received a green card that was good for only 24 months. A standard green card is good for 10 years. Why did we get you the limited one? Because we had no choice. The temporary green card, good for just twenty-four (24) months, is what one will always receive when adjusting status following a marriage. It was not possible to get a permanent green card for you. So, are you done? NO!!
You can remove the conditions on your green card by filing form I-751, Petition to Remove the Conditions of Residence, with the USCIS. You can file as early as 90 days before your conditional green card expires, which you should do: the form can take 18 to 30 months or MORE to adjudicate!! Legally, the receipt for your I-751 filing should serve to protect you from removal from the United States for 48 months beyond the expiration date shown on your temporary green card. We recommend that you file on time (or have us do so for you) and carry that receipt with you at all times.
What if you and your U.S. Spouse are divorced or separated? We can still file form I-751 with proof that you entered into the marriage in good faith and your removal from the U.S. would result in extreme hardship.
If you do not file and have nothing but your expired green card, you will be out of status and can be removed from the United States!
You may be able to file a form I-751 on your own, with no attorney. Your children born overseas are subject to the same limitations. We offer services to prove that your marriage was bona fide and to get your ‘permanent’ green card.
Whatever you decide to do, get it done and keep your receipt with you!