Conditional Green Cards in New Jersey

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

In order to qualify for a Conditional Green Card in New Jersey, applicants must meet certain requirements including:

– Being a lawful permanent resident of the United States;

– Having been married for less than 2 years prior to applying for the card;

– Being able to demonstrate a “bona fide” marriage to the petitioner;

– Having entered the United States legally (or having been eligible for a waiver of the entry requirement);

– Not having any inadmissible criminal or immigration history; and

– Being able to prove that the marriage is not an immigration fraud.

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

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

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

Yes, there are special restrictions for Conditional Green Card holders in New Jersey. Conditional permanent residents must maintain a valid Conditional Green Card and may not travel outside the United States without first obtaining a Reentry Permit or Returning Resident Visa. They must also meet all applicable New Jersey laws, including income tax and child support obligations. Additionally, they may be subject to certain eligibility requirements for public benefits.

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

In order to apply for a Conditional Green Card in New Jersey, you will need to provide the following documents:

1. Proof of your current legal status in the U.S.
2. A completed I-751 Form Petition to Remove Conditions on Residence
3. Evidence of your marriage to the U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident spouse that granted you conditional permanent residence status
4. Evidence of biometric identification, if applicable
5. Two passport-style photographs of you, taken within 30 days of filing the I-751 form
6. Documentation showing any name changes
7. The filing fee, or an approved fee waiver request
8. Supporting documents as requested by USCIS, such as a copy of your marriage certificate and proof that your marriage was entered into in good faith, tax returns, joint bank accounts, driver’s licenses, and more.

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

The time to receive a Conditional Green Card in New Jersey varies depending on the type of application and the individual circumstances of the applicant. Generally, the process can take anywhere from 6 to 12 months.

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

Yes, you can travel outside of New Jersey while holding a Conditional Green Card. However, if you plan to be outside of the United States for more than 6 months, you must obtain a reentry permit prior to your departure.

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

Yes, there is a fee associated with obtaining a Conditional Green Card in New Jersey. The fee for the initial filing of the I-751 Petition to Remove Conditions on Residence is $595. Additionally, there are biometrics fees of $85 for each applicant.

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

As a Conditional Green Card holder in New Jersey, you have certain rights and responsibilities. You have the right to live and work in the U.S., the right to travel in and out of the country with advance parole, and the right to apply for U.S. citizenship after meeting all eligibility requirements. As a Conditional Green Card holder, you also have certain responsibilities, including the requirement to file tax returns, keep your immigration status up-to-date, and maintain your financial independence. As a green card holder, you must also follow all local, state, and federal laws.

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

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

1. Determine eligibility – determine if you qualify for a Conditional Green Card by determining if you meet the requirements.

2. File the appropriate forms – file Form I-485 (Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status) with USCIS.

3. Pay the application fee – the fee for Form I-485 is $1,140 as of 2021.

4. Submit evidence of eligibility – submit documents to demonstrate that you meet the requirements for a Conditional Green Card, such as marriage certificate, employment evidence, or birth certificate.

5. Have the biometric appointment – go to an appointment to provide biometrics such as fingerprints and photographs.

6. Receive a decision from USCIS – after all necessary documents have been submitted and reviewed, a decision will be made on your application.

7. Get the Conditional Green Card – if approved, you will receive the physical card in the mail within 2-3 weeks from USCIS or your local Social Security Office.

10. When does my Conditional Green Card expire in New Jersey?

Your conditional green card will expire two years after it was issued.

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

In order to renew your Conditional Green Card in New Jersey, you must file Form I-751, Petition to Remove the Conditions on Residence. This form must be filed within 90 days before the expiration of your Conditional Green Card. The form must be accompanied by evidence that demonstrates that the marriage was entered into in good faith and is still a valid marriage. The filing fee is $595. You will need to submit the form and all supporting documents to the USCIS office that serves your area in New Jersey.

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

Yes, you will need to submit a new Form I-751, Petition to Remove Conditions on Residence, with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). You should also inform USCIS of your change of address.

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

Yes, there may be tax implications for holding a conditional green card in New Jersey. Under the Internal Revenue Code, permanent residents, including those with a conditional green card, are generally subject to the same federal taxes as U.S. citizens. This includes income taxes at the federal and state levels. Depending on income level, filing status, and other factors, state income tax may be due in New Jersey. Additionally, permanent residents with a conditional green card may also be subject to Social Security and Medicare taxes. For additional information about taxes for permanent residents with a conditional green card in New Jersey, it is recommended to contact the New Jersey Division of Taxation or a qualified tax professional.

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

Yes, you can work legally with a Conditional Green Card in New Jersey as long as you have a valid Employment Authorization Document (EAD) and valid Social Security number.

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

Yes, New Jersey does allow family members to visit or live with a Conditional Green Card holder, as long as the family member has the appropriate visa.

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

Yes, there are language requirements for obtaining a Conditional Green Card in New Jersey. Applicants must demonstrate basic knowledge of English by passing an English language proficiency test approved by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services. This test must be taken before applying for a Conditional Green Card. The test must also be taken annually to maintain the Conditional Green Card status.

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

The process for removing conditions on a conditional green card in New Jersey is as follows:
1. File Form I-751, Petition to Remove Conditions on Residence, within the 90-day period before your conditional green card expires.
2. Submit a joint petition with your spouse if you were married for less than two years when you received your green card.
3. Pay the filing fee and biometric service fee.
4. Submit supporting documents such as birth certificates, marriage certificates, and evidence of a bonafide marriage.
5. Attend an interview if necessary.
6. Receive a decision from USCIS within 90 days of the interview date.

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

No, New Jersey does not grant 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 New Jersey?

Yes, there are restrictions on renting an apartment or purchasing property with a Conditional Green Card in New Jersey. Local municipalities and lenders may require proof of permanent residency or citizenship before a rental unit or property can be rented or purchased. Additionally, some rental companies may restrict housing to those with permanent resident status.

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

You can stay informed about changes to the requirements for obtaining a Conditional Green Card in New Jersey by subscribing to the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) email updates or by visiting their website regularly. Additionally, you can reach out to an attorney or immigration specialist who is familiar with the local regulations in New Jersey, as they may be able to provide more detailed information about the requirements for obtaining a Conditional Green Card in New Jersey.