Conditional Green Cards in Louisiana

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

In order to qualify for a Conditional Green Card in Louisiana, applicants must meet the following requirements:

1. Have a valid marriage to a U.S. citizen or permanent resident, or have been married to a U.S. citizen or permanent resident for at least two years;

2. Not have any criminal convictions that would render them ineligible for adjustment of status;

3. Meet all other immigration eligibility requirements; and

4. Be physically present in the United States at the time of filing the I-751 petition.

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

Yes, Louisiana accepts foreign nationals for Conditional Green Card applications.

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

Yes. According to the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, Conditional Green Card holders in Louisiana must adhere to certain restrictions:

• They are required to have valid proof of their immigration status on them at all times.

• They must not commit any crime or be convicted for a crime in the United States.

• They cannot travel outside of the United States without permission from U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services.

• They must renew their Conditional Green Card within 90 days before the expiration date.

• They must file a Form I-751 with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services within 90 days before the expiration date of the conditional green card to remove the conditions on their permanent resident status.

• They must not abandon their residency status in the United States or fail to comply with the conditions specified on their green card.

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

In order to apply for a Conditional Green Card in Louisiana, you will need to submit form I-751, Petition to Remove the Conditions on Residence; copies of your green card and marriage certificate; evidence of you and your spouse’s relationship such as joint bank accounts, leases, photos, or affidavits from friends and family; evidence of your spouse’s current immigration status, such as Form I-797, Notice of Action; and any other supporting documents you may wish to submit.

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

It typically takes 6-10 months to receive a conditional green card in Louisiana.

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

Yes, you can travel outside of Louisiana while holding a conditional green card. However, you will need to obtain an advance parole document from the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) before leaving the country. Without this document, you may not be able to re-enter the United States.

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

Yes, there is a fee associated with obtaining a Conditional Green Card in Louisiana. The fee is typically $220 plus a biometrics fee of $85. This cost may vary depending on the circumstances of the case.

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

As a Conditional Green Card holder in Louisiana, you have the right to live and work in the United States, as long as you maintain lawful permanent resident status. You also have the right to travel outside the U.S. with permission and to apply for a Social Security number.

You have the responsibility to obey all laws in the U.S., and you must also continue to meet the qualifications for a green card. Additionally, you should not travel outside of the U.S. for longer than 6 months, as this can lead to your green card being revoked. You must also remember to file a Form I-829 within 90 days of your two-year anniversary of receiving your Conditional Green Card, in order to obtain a 10 year permanent green card.

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

1. Determine your eligibility – To be eligible for a conditional green card, you must be either a spouse, child, or parent of a U.S. citizen or Lawful Permanent Resident (LPR).

2. Submit Form I-130 – If you meet the eligibility requirements, you need to submit Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative. You must provide evidence that you meet the eligibility requirements and provide biographic information about yourself.

3. Submit Form I-485 – After the I-130 is approved, you must submit Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status. You must provide evidence of your relationship to the U.S. citizen or LPR, proof of your identity and background, and proof that you are admissible into the United States, among other documents.

4. Attend an interview – Once the I-485 is submitted, you will be scheduled for an interview at a U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) office in Louisiana. During the interview, a USCIS officer will ask questions about your eligibility and relationship to the U.S. citizen or LPR sponsor.

5. Receive Conditional Green Card – If the USCIS officer finds that you meet all eligibility requirements, then you will receive a two-year conditional green card.

6. Apply for Removal of Conditions – Before the two-year conditional period expires, you must submit an application to remove the conditions on your green card. This form is known as Form I-751, Petition to Remove Conditions on Residence. In this form, you must provide evidence of your continuing relationship with the U.S. citizen or LPR sponsor and proof that you have not become inadmissible during the two-year period since you received your green card.

7. Receive Permanent Green Card – If USCIS approves your application to remove conditions on residence, then they will issue you a permanent green card valid for 10 years.

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

Your Conditional Green Card will expire two years after it is issued. The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) will send you a notice before it expires with instructions on how to apply for the removal of the conditions.

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

To renew your Conditional Green Card in Louisiana, you must file Form I-751, Petition to Remove Conditions on Residence, with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). You must submit the form with the required evidence and appropriate filing fee within the 90 days before your Green Card expires. For more information about filing the Form I-751 in Louisiana, please visit the USCIS website: https://www.uscis.gov/i-751

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

Yes, if you move to another state, you will need to reapply for a Conditional Green Card in the new state. This can be done online using the USCIS website, or through an immigration attorney.

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

Yes, those who hold a conditional Green Card are still required to file taxes to the IRS. In addition, they may be subject to certain Louisiana state taxes as well. It is important to consult with a qualified tax professional to ensure that all applicable taxes are filed correctly and on time.

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

Yes, you can work legally with a Conditional Green Card in Louisiana. However, you must obtain an Employment Authorization Document (EAD), also known as a work permit, from U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) before you can begin working.

15. Does Louisiana 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 green card holder in Louisiana. However, they must first obtain a visitor or family visa in order to be allowed entry into the United States.

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

Yes, there are language requirements for obtaining a Conditional Green Card in Louisiana. The applicant must demonstrate a basic knowledge of English by passing a test or providing evidence of enrollment in an English language course. Additionally, the applicant must also successfully pass the civic portion of the naturalization test.

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

The process for removing conditions on a Conditional Green Card in Louisiana is generally the same as in all other states. The process begins with filing Form I-751, Petition to Remove Conditions on Residence, with United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Supporting documents such as a copy of the conditional green card, proof of the marriage, evidence of financial support, and evidence of joint residential address must also be included. The application must be filed within 90 days before the 2-year expiration date. USCIS may approve the application, request evidence or deny the application. If approved, USCIS will issue a 10-year Green Card. For more information on the process, visit the USCIS website.

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

No, Louisiana 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 Louisiana?

Yes. In Louisiana, property owners are prohibited from renting or selling property to anyone who does not have legal status in the U.S. This includes individuals with a Conditional Green Card, as they are considered to be in the country unlawfully. Additionally, lenders are prohibited from offering loans or other forms of financing to individuals with a Conditional Green Card.

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

The best way to stay informed about changes to the requirements for obtaining a Conditional Green Card in Louisiana is by regularly checking the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) website. The USCIS website provides detailed information about the most current immigration laws and regulations, including changes to the requirements for obtaining a Conditional Green Card in Louisiana. Additionally, you can contact your local USCIS office or speak with an immigration attorney for more specific information.