Conditional Green Cards in Georgia

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

In order to qualify for a Conditional Green Card in Georgia, the applicant must meet the following criteria:
1. Have been married to a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident for less than two years at the time of filing the application;
2. Have entered into the marriage in good faith and not solely for the purpose of obtaining immigration benefits;
3. Not have any prior marriages that are still valid;
4. Have no legal impediments to the marriage, such as a spouse’s existing marriage;
5. Have resided with their spouse in the United States since the marriage;
6. Have no record of criminal activity that would make them ineligible for a green card;
7. Have never been an attempted entry into the United States without inspection (EWI); and
8. Complete an interview with a U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) officer to demonstrate that the marriage is valid and that it was not entered into solely for immigration benefits.

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

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

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

Yes, there are special restrictions for Conditional Green Card holders in Georgia. Conditional Green Card holders are not eligible for certain public benefits such as food stamps, Supplemental Security Income, and Temporary Assistance for Needy Families. Additionally, Conditional Green Card holders may not be eligible for certain professional licenses and may be subject to additional restrictions when it comes to employment opportunities.

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

To apply for a Conditional Green Card in Georgia, you must have the following documents:

– Proof of your legal entry into the United States (such as a valid passport, visa, and I-94 arrival record);

– A valid marriage certificate indicating your marriage to a U.S. citizen or permanent resident;

– Evidence of any criminal activity;

– Evidence of any immigration violations;

– Evidence of any prior deportation order;

– Evidence of your financial ability to support yourself in the United States;

– Two passport-style photos taken within 30 days of the application;

– Medical examination reports;

– A completed and signed Form I-751, Petition to Remove Conditions on Residence.

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

It typically takes up to 5 months to receive a Conditional Green Card in Georgia. The process can take longer in some cases.

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

Yes, you can travel outside of Georgia while holding a Conditional Green Card. However, you must have a valid re-entry permit to be able to re-enter the United States.

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

Yes, there is a fee associated with obtaining a Conditional Green Card in Georgia. The fee is currently $220 for those applying within the United States, and $85 for those applying from abroad.

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

As a Conditional Green Card holder in Georgia, you have the same rights as any other permanent resident of the United States. This includes the right to live and work in the United States; the right to travel outside of the United States and return; and the right to petition for certain family members to also become permanent residents. However, you also have specific responsibilities, such as filing taxes, following all laws, and notifying USCIS of any changes in your address. Additionally, you are required to apply to remove the conditions on your residence within 90 days before the two-year anniversary of receiving your conditional green card.

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

1. Determine eligibility for a conditional green card. You must have entered into a valid marriage with a U.S. citizen or permanent resident within the past two years and meet certain other conditions to qualify.

2. File Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative, with the appropriate fee to USCIS.

3. Submit Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status, along with required supporting documents (such as proof of the legal relationship between you and your spouse).

4. Attend an interview at your local USCIS office. During the interview, you and your spouse will be asked questions about the validity of your marriage.

5. Receive a decision from USCIS regarding your application for a conditional green card. If approved, you will receive a green card valid for two years.

6. Before the green card expires, file Form I-751, Petition to Remove Conditions on Residence, to prove that your marriage is still valid. You must submit proof that you and your spouse continue to live together and have not separated since your marriage began.

7. Attend another interview at USCIS if requested by the agency.

8. Receive a decision from USCIS regarding your Form I-751. If approved, you will receive a permanent green card valid for 10 years without conditions on your residence status in the U.S.

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

Conditional Green Cards are valid for two years from the date on which they were issued. Upon expiration, the holder must file an application to remove the condition.

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

You must apply to renew your Conditional Green Card by filing Form I-751, Petition to Remove Conditions on Residence, with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). You will need to provide documentary evidence that you are still married and continue to live together with your U.S. citizen or permanent resident spouse. You may also need to provide evidence of the bona fides of the marriage, such as joint bank accounts, shared lease or mortgage payments, birth certificates of children from the marriage, and other evidence that your marriage is real and ongoing. USCIS has specific instructions and forms for filing Form I-751.

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

Yes, you will need to reapply for a Conditional Green Card in the state you are relocating to. Your new state may have different requirements, so it is important to contact the appropriate immigration office in your new state to determine what you need to do to obtain a new Conditional Green Card.

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

Yes, there may be tax implications for holding a Conditional Green Card in Georgia. The IRS considers individuals with conditional green cards to be legal permanent residents for the entire year. As such, they are required to file a Form 1040 or 1040-SR (if they qualify) and may be liable to pay federal income taxes on all of their worldwide income. Additionally, they may need to pay state taxes on their income earned in Georgia. It is recommended that individuals with conditional green cards consult a tax professional in order to understand their tax obligations.

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

Yes, you can work legally with a Conditional Green Card in Georgia, as long as your green card contains a valid expiration date and your employer has verified eligibility with the USCIS. Additionally, the job must be related to the reason you received the Conditional Green Card.

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

Yes, family members of Conditional Green Card holders in Georgia are eligible to visit or live with them. However, it is important to note that if a family member wishes to travel outside of the United States while they are living with the Conditional Green Card holder, they must obtain their own visa.

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

No, there are no language requirements for obtaining a Conditional Green Card in Georgia. However, you must demonstrate basic knowledge of English and civics to become a citizen of the United States. Additionally, to apply for permanent residence after two years, applicants must demonstrate adequate knowledge of the English language and a basic understanding of U.S. history and government.

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

The process for removing conditions on a Conditional Green Card in Georgia is the same as in any other state. It involves filing Form I-751, Petition to Remove Conditions on Residence, before the expiration date listed on the card. This form must be accompanied by evidence that supports the validity of the marriage, such as joint bank accounts, a lease or mortgage in both names, and other documents showing proof of a bona fide relationship. After submitting the form and supporting documents, you may be asked to attend an in-person interview at a USCIS office. Once your petition is approved, you will receive a new 10-year Green Card with no conditions attached.

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

No, Georgia 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 Georgia?

Yes. According to Georgia law, landlords may not discriminate against potential tenants based on their immigration status. However, individuals with a Conditional Green Card will not be eligible to purchase property in Georgia unless they are able to provide proof of U.S. citizenship or legal permanent residency.

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

You can stay informed about changes to the requirements for obtaining a Conditional Green Card in Georgia by visiting the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services website. Additionally, you can contact a local immigration attorney for more detailed information or to help you successfully navigate the process.