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What is a conditional green card?

On Behalf of | Jul 24, 2024 | immigration |

A conditional green card is valid for two years. After two years, the conditional status can be removed, and a person can become a legal permanent resident if they meet the requirements.

The most well-known way to get a conditional green card is to marry a U.S. citizen. Another way is to make a significant financial investment in the U.S., generally by starting a business. 

What can you do with a conditional green card?

A conditional green card allows the holder to live and work in the U.S. They’re also allowed to leave the U.S. and then return. However, if a person stays outside the U.S. for over a year, they will likely need a re-entry permit. That should be obtained before the trip abroad.

There are forms and interviews required to remove the conditional status after two years. Note that the conditional status can’t be renewed. The forms to obtain permanent green card status vary based on what type of green card a person has. Further, if a person has a marriage-based green card, their spouse needs to complete the necessary forms and participate in the interview as well.

More about conditional green cards for investors

A conditional green card for entrepreneurs/investors is also known as the EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program. To get a conditional green card under this program, a person must meet certain requirements, including: 

  • Investing roughly $1 million (or at least $800,000 if it’s in a rural and/or high unemployment area)
  • Showing that the capital being invested is from legal sources
  • Have a plan to create at least 10 full-time local jobs.

There’s a lot more to know about the EB-5 program and about the requirements for getting the conditional status of the green card removed. 

If you or a loved one is seeking a conditional green card, regardless of the purpose, or ready to get the conditional status removed and make it permanent, having experienced legal guidance can help things go more smoothly.