Conditional Green Cards in Maryland

1. What are the requirements for qualifying for a Conditional Green Card in Maryland?

To qualify for a conditional green card in Maryland, an individual must be a foreign national who is married to a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident, and have been issued an immigrant visa based on the marriage. The individual must also meet all other immigration requirements, including having an approved immigrant petition, showing proof of the valid marriage, and passing a medical examination. The conditional green card will be issued for two years and it is important to note that if the individual does not remove the conditions within the two-year period, the conditional green card will expire and the individual may be removed from the United States.

2. Does Maryland accept foreign nationals for Conditional Green Card applications?

Yes, Maryland does accept foreign nationals for Conditional Green Card applications.

3. Are there any special restrictions for Conditional Green Card holders in Maryland?

Yes, there are special restrictions for Conditional Green Card holders in Maryland. Conditional Green Card holders must follow the same laws as all other permanent residents of the United States. In addition, Conditional Green Card holders may not apply for certain forms of public assistance, including cash benefits from the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) program, Supplemental Security Income (SSI), or Medicaid. In Maryland, Conditional Green Card holders must also register with the Selective Service within 30 days of turning 18 years old.

4. What documents do I need to apply for a Conditional Green Card in Maryland?

The documents you will need to apply for a Conditional Green Card in Maryland include: proof of your foreign nationality, a valid passport, your birth certificate, proof of marriage or other relationships, Form I-130 (Petition for Alien Relative) and Form I-751 (Petition to Remove Conditions on Residence). Additionally, you may need additional documents such as evidence of the bona fide nature of your marriage, evidence of any name changes, evidence of any criminal record or immigration violations, and financial documents to demonstrate your ability to support yourself and your family.

5. How long does it take to receive a Conditional Green Card in Maryland?

The processing time for a Conditional Green Card in Maryland varies depending on the specific circumstances of the applicant and can take anywhere from six to twelve months.

6. Can I travel outside of Maryland while holding a Conditional Green Card?

Yes, you can travel outside of Maryland while holding a Conditional Green Card. However, you must obtain a travel document, otherwise known as an Advance Parole document, from U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) before departing the United States. This document will allow you to re-enter the United States after your trip abroad.

7. Is there a fee associated with obtaining a Conditional Green Card in Maryland?

Yes, there is a fee associated with obtaining a Conditional Green Card in Maryland. The filing fee is $595, which includes a biometric services fee of $85.

8. What rights and responsibilities do I have as a Conditional Green Card holder in Maryland?

As a conditional green card holder in Maryland, you have the same rights and responsibilities as other permanent residents of the United States, including the right to work, to live and work in the United States, to serve in the armed forces, to be protected by all federal, state and local laws, and to petition to bring family members to the United States. You also have the responsibility to obey all federal, state and local laws, to report any changes in your address or marital status to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), and to pay taxes. However, you must apply for a permanent green card before the expiration of your conditional green card status.

9. What are the steps involved in getting a Conditional Green Card in Maryland?

1. Obtain an immigrant visa or other form of qualifying relief through the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).

2. File Form I-485 – Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status.

3. Attend a fingerprinting appointment and bio-metric services appointment at a USCIS designated Application Support Center (ASC).

4. Obtain an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) card.

5. Receive a Notice of Action, Form I-797, from the USCIS stating that you have been approved for a two-year conditional green card.

6. Present your valid passport, Form I-797, and proof of Maryland residency to a local USCIS office to receive your new conditional green card.

7. During the two-year period, report all changes in your employment or address to the USCIS to avoid deportation proceedings.

8. When the two-year period is up, apply for removal of conditions on your green card by filing Form I-751 – Petition to Remove Conditions on Residence.

9. Attend an interview at your local USCIS office to prove the legitimacy of your marriage if applicable, submit evidence of your relationship, and submit supporting documents such as income tax returns and employment verification letters.

10. Receive a Notice of Action, Form I-797, from the USCIS stating that you have been approved for unlimited permanent residency in Maryland and receive your new permanent green card once it arrives in the mail.

10. When does my Conditional Green Card expire in Maryland?

The expiration date is usually 10 years from the date you were granted conditional permanent residence.

11. How can I renew my Conditional Green Card in Maryland?

In order to renew your Conditional Green Card in Maryland, you will need to complete Form I-751, Petition to Remove Conditions on Residence. This form must be submitted to the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) within 90 days of the expiration date of your Conditional Green Card. Along with your Form I-751, you will need to provide evidence of a bona fide marriage or other qualifying relationship. You may also need to provide evidence of any marriage or divorce since you obtained your Conditional Green Card, as well as proof of your current address in Maryland. After submitting your Form I-751, you will be scheduled for a biometrics appointment and an interview at the USCIS field office in Baltimore.

12. If I move to another state, do I need to reapply for a Conditional Green Card in Maryland?

No, you do not need to reapply for a Conditional Green Card in Maryland if you move to another state. Your existing Conditional Green Card will be valid in any state in the United States.

13. Are there any tax implications for holding a Conditional Green Card in Maryland?

Yes, there are tax implications for holding a Conditional Green Card in Maryland. All US permanent residents, including those with Conditional Green Cards, must file federal income taxes and may have to pay state taxes depending on the state they live in. Nonresident aliens must also report any income earned while in the United States. Certain states, including Maryland, impose taxes on the income of nonresident aliens who maintain a permanent place of abode and spend more than 183 days in the state during the tax year. Therefore, those with Conditional Green Cards in Maryland may be subject to state taxes on their income.

14. Can I work legally with a Conditional Green Card in Maryland?

Yes, you can work legally with a conditional green card in Maryland. You must obtain an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) from the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) before you can begin working. The EAD will be valid for one year from the date of issue and can be renewed upon expiration.

15. Does Maryland allow family members to visit or live with me when I hold a Conditional Green Card?

Yes, Maryland allows family members to visit or live with someone who holds a Conditional Green Card. However, these family members must also meet certain requirements to be eligible to do so. These requirements can be found on the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services website.

16. Are there any language requirements for obtaining a Conditional Green Card in Maryland?

Yes, the conditional green card requires applicants to demonstrate proficiency in English or another language specified by the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) before they can obtain the card. The USCIS also requires a minimum level of education or work experience, depending on the type of card.

17. What is the process for removing conditions on my Conditional Green Card in Maryland?

The process for removing conditions on a Conditional Green Card in Maryland is similar to the process for all other states. You must apply to remove the conditions on your Green Card within the 90 days prior to the expiration date. You must submit Form I-751, Petition to Remove Conditions on Residence, along with supporting documents to prove that the marriage was entered into in good faith. USCIS will review your application and may schedule an interview with you before making a decision. After your application is approved, USCIS will issue you a new 10-year Green Card without any conditions.

18. Does Maryland issue dual citizenship to holders of a Conditional Green Card?

No, Maryland does not issue dual citizenship to holders of a Conditional Green Card.

19. Are there any restrictions on renting an apartment or purchasing property with a Conditional Green Card in Maryland?

Yes, there are restrictions on renting an apartment or purchasing property in Maryland with a Conditional Green Card.

According to the Maryland Real Estate Commission, a Conditional Permanent Resident has certain restrictions on their ability to purchase real estate. The Commission states that a Conditional Permanent Resident may not open or maintain an escrow or trust account in their name to purchase property, nor may they contract to purchase real estate in the state. The buyer must also provide proof of their status as a Conditional Permanent Resident. Additionally, the buyer must be able to demonstrate that they have the financial resources to complete the purchase of the property. Before a Conditional Permanent Resident may enter into any contract to purchase real estate in Maryland, they must first obtain written authorization from the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).

20. How can I stay informed about changes to the requirements for obtaining a Conditional Green Card in Maryland?

You can stay informed about changes to the requirements for obtaining a Conditional Green Card in Maryland by regularly visiting the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) website. USCIS regularly updates its information about the process for obtaining a green card and any changes that may affect the process. Additionally, you can contact a local immigration attorney to get informed advice about the process and any changes that may be relevant.