Conditional Green Cards in Connecticut

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

In order to qualify for a Conditional Green Card in Connecticut, applicants must have been married to a U.S. citizen for less than two years and have an approved Form I-130 Petition for Alien Relative or Form I-360 Petition for Amerasian, Widow(er), or Special Immigrant. Additionally, applicants must have maintained lawful immigration status in the U.S. and have not violated any U.S. immigration laws.

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

No, Connecticut does not accept foreign nationals for Conditional Green Card applications. The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is the only governmental agency that can approve such applications.

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

Yes, there are special restrictions for Conditional Green Card holders in Connecticut. Conditional Green Card holders are not eligible to receive a driver’s license or state ID in Connecticut, nor can they register a vehicle or obtain a fishing license. Additionally, Conditional Green Card holders may not be eligible for certain social services and benefits, such as SNAP and cash assistance.

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

In order to apply for a Conditional Green Card in Connecticut, the primary documents you will need to provide are:

1. A completed I-485 form, or Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status.
2. Your marriage certificate or evidence of marriage if you are applying with a spouse.
3. Proof that you have been legally admitted to the United States, such as a visa or a valid passport.
4. Evidence of your relationship with your spouse and other dependents, such as birth certificates and proof of financial support.
5. Two passport-style photos taken within 30 days of submitting your application.
6. An affidavit of support, Form I-864, which must be completed by the petitioner or joint sponsor and the conditional resident’s other family members who are not Conditional Residents themselves.
7. Proof that the marriage is valid and not fraudulent, such as joint bank accounts, leases, etc.
8. Proof that you have met the educational requirements for adjustment of status if applicable.
9. A police clearance certificate from all countries you have lived in for more than six months since turning 16 years old.
10. All relevant medical documents, including vaccinations and medical exams required by USCIS.

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

The time it takes to receive a Conditional Green Card in Connecticut can vary depending on the individual case. Generally, a person can expect to receive their green card within 2-5 months from the date of filing for the adjustment of status.

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

Yes, you can travel outside of Connecticut while holding a Conditional Green Card. However, you should be aware that you will need to show your Green Card when you return to the United States in order to be admitted back into the country. You should also make sure that you have all of the necessary documentation to prove that you are returning to the United States in order to maintain your immigration status.

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

Yes. The filing fee for a Conditional Green Card in Connecticut is $220.

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

As a Conditional Green Card holder in Connecticut, you have the same rights and responsibilities as any other permanent resident of the United States, including:

• The right to work in the U.S. with employment authorization
• The right to travel within and outside of the U.S. with a valid passport
• The responsibility to comply with all federal, state and local laws
• The responsibility to file taxes each year
• The responsibility to report any changes in your address to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services
• The responsibility to maintain lawful status in the U.S.
• The responsibility to apply for removal of conditions during the required 90-day window before your green card expires

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

The steps involved in getting a Conditional Green Card in Connecticut are as follows:

1. Determine Eligibility: To be eligible for a Conditional Green Card, an individual must be the spouse of a U.S. citizen or permanent resident and must have been married to the sponsor for less than two years at the time of approval.

2. Gather Required Documentation: The applicant must provide proof of a valid marriage, such as a marriage certificate, proof of the sponsor’s U.S. citizenship or U.S. lawful permanent residence, and evidence of termination of any prior marriages.

3. File Form I-130: The sponsor must file Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative to establish the family relationship between the sponsor and the applicant.

4. File Form I-485: The applicant must file Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status, to apply for a green card.

5. Attend an Interview: The applicant and sponsor must attend an in-person interview with immigration officials. During this interview, the applicant will be asked questions about their relationship with the sponsor and other details about their lives prior to immigrating to the United States.

6. Receive Approval: After completing the interview, if approved, the applicant will receive a Conditional Green Card valid for two years.

7. Apply to Remove Conditions: Within 90 days before the expiration date on the conditional green card, the applicant must file Form I-751, Petition to Remove Conditions on Residence, and provide evidence that they are still married to their sponsor.

8. Attend a Second Interview: The applicant and sponsor may be asked to attend another interview with immigration officials to demonstrate that their marriage is still valid and ongoing after the two year period.

9. Receive Permanent Green Card: Once approved, the applicant will receive a permanent green card valid for ten years.

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

The expiration date of a Conditional Green Card in Connecticut is usually two years from the date of issuance.

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

To renew your Conditional Green Card in the state of Connecticut, you must complete Form I-90, Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card. Submit the completed form online or by mail, along with the necessary supporting documents and filing fee, to the USCIS Field Office or Service Center that has jurisdiction over Connecticut.

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

Yes, you will need to reapply for a Conditional Green Card in the state you move to.

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

Yes, there are tax implications for holding a Conditional Green Card in Connecticut. A Conditional Green Card holder must include any income that was earned in Connecticut on their state and federal income taxes. Taxes are due on income regardless of whether or not the individual has a work permit or is authorized to work in the United States. Furthermore, if the individual has a Conditional Green Card, they may be required to file a federal form 1040NR (Non-Resident Alien).

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

Yes, you can work legally with a Conditional Green Card in Connecticut. In order to do so, you must ensure that your green card is valid, and that you are authorized to work in the United States. You will also need to obtain an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) from the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Once you have these documents, you can apply for a job and start working legally in Connecticut.

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

Yes, family members may visit or live with a Conditional Green Card holder in Connecticut. However, they must have their own valid visa in order to do so.

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

Yes. Conditional green card holders must demonstrate proficiency in English, knowledge of U.S. civics and history, and pass a medical examination.

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

In order to remove the conditions on your Conditional Green Card in Connecticut, you must file Form I-751, Petition to Remove Conditions on Residence. This form must be filed within the 90-day period before the expiration date on your Conditional Green Card. The form can be filed online or by mail with the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Along with the form, you must submit evidence that you and your US citizen spouse have a valid marriage and are still living together in a bona fide marriage. Documents such as joint bank account statements, tax returns, and other evidence can be included in your petition. Once the USCIS has received your form, they will contact you for an interview and review of your evidence. If approved, they will issue you a new 10-year Green Card without conditions.

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

No, Connecticut does not issue dual citizenship to holders of a Conditional Green Card. The United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) does not grant dual citizenship to any applicant, regardless of their immigration status.

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

Yes, there may be restrictions on renting an apartment or purchasing property with a Conditional Green Card in Connecticut. Property owners and landlords may require a credit score, rental history, proof of income, and other documentation. In addition, many landlords may require a larger security deposit or additional paperwork to rent an apartment with a Conditional Green Card. The same may be true when purchasing property with a Conditional Green Card. A lender may require additional documentation such as proof of income, employment history, and other documents.

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

To stay informed about changes to the requirements for obtaining a Conditional Green Card in Connecticut, you should check the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services website regularly. You should also stay updated by following news outlets, websites, and blogs that specialize in immigration and citizenship issues. Additionally, it is a good idea to contact a local immigration attorney who can provide personalized advice about changes that may affect your eligibility for a Conditional Green Card.