Conditional Green Cards in West Virginia

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

In order to qualify for a Conditional Green Card in West Virginia, an individual must meet the following requirements:

1. Have a qualifying relationship with a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident (LPR);
2. Have been admitted as a conditional permanent resident in the U.S.;
3. Have continuously resided in the U.S. for at least two years;
4. Not have abandoned their residence in the U.S.; and
5. Not have been convicted of any crimes that would make them ineligible for the green card.

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

No, West Virginia does not accept foreign nationals for Conditional Green Card applications. The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is the federal agency responsible for accepting and processing these applications.

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

Yes, there are some restrictions for Conditional Green Card holders in West Virginia. Conditional Green Card holders in West Virginia must maintain their lawful permanent resident (LPR) status, or face deportation. In addition, Conditional Green Card holders in West Virginia are not allowed to vote or hold public office. They may not receive certain government benefits, such as food stamps, Medicaid, or Social Security. They also cannot purchase firearms or obtain a driver’s license, and must have permission from the U.S. government to work. Finally, they must remain physically present in the United States for at least two years out of every five and must file an I-751 petition to remove conditions before the expiration of their green card.

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

In order to apply for a Conditional Green Card in West Virginia, you will need to submit the following documents:

1. Form I-751, Petition to Remove the Conditions of Residence.
2. Copy of your lawful permanent resident card (green card).
3. Evidence of a valid marriage between you and your U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident spouse.
4. Documentation of any relevant changes in your marriage, such as divorce or death of a spouse.
5. Two recent passport-style photographs of yourself and your spouse (if applicable).
6. Copies of documents showing any name changes.
7. A copy of your birth certificate or passport (if applicable).
8. Evidence that proves you have maintained continuous residence in the United States for at least three years since your entry on a conditional green card, such as copies of tax returns, bank statements, utility bills, and other evidence that shows you have been living in the U.S.
9. A copy of any documentation that shows any trips outside the U.S., such as airline tickets or travel itineraries (if applicable).
10. Payment for all applicable fees, such as the filing fee and biometrics fee (if applicable).

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

The timeline for receiving a conditional green card in West Virginia varies depending on the individual case. Generally, it can take between 6 months and 1 year to receive a conditional green card. The process may be longer or shorter depending on the type of green card and any additional documents that may be needed.

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

Yes, you may travel outside of West Virginia with a conditional green card. However, you will need to obtain permission from United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) before traveling outside the US. You must also be careful to travel with all of your required documents, including your passport and green card.

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

Yes, there is a fee associated with obtaining a Conditional Green Card in West Virginia. The current fee is $220. This fee is subject to change.

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

As a conditional green card holder in West Virginia you have the right to:

– Live and work in the United States for as long as your conditions remain valid.

– Travel outside of the United States, but you must have a valid re-entry permit to return.

– Apply for a Social Security Card.

– Apply for a driver’s license or state identification card.

You also have the responsibility to:

– Obey all federal, state, and local laws.

– Maintain valid immigration status for the duration of your conditional green card period.

– Maintain your address with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).

– Report any changes in employment, marital status, or address within 10 days of the change.

– File a petition to remove the conditions on your green card before it expires.

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

Steps involved in getting a Conditional Green Card in West Virginia include:

1. Submit Form I-130 – Petition for Alien Relative to the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).

2. Wait for the receipt notice from USCIS.

3. Submit Form I-485 – Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status to the National Visa Center (NVC).

4. Wait for the approval notice from NVC and gather documents requested to support the application.

5. Attend the visa interview at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate in West Virginia.

6. Receive the Conditional Green Card after submitting additional documents if requested.

7. Submit Form I-751, Petition to Remove Conditions on Residence, within 90 days before the expiration date of the conditional green card.

8. Wait for the approval notice of I-751 from USCIS and receive the 10-year Green Card after successful application process.

10. When does my Conditional Green Card expire in West Virginia?

The expiration date of your Conditional Green Card will depend on the individual’s unique circumstances. Generally, conditional green cards issued before August 2019 expire after two years, while those issued on or after August 2019 expire after two years and nine months.

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

To renew your Conditional Green Card in West Virginia, submit Form I-90, Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card, to the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) office nearest to you. You can find the address of your local office on the USCIS website. You will need to provide evidence that your marriage is still valid, including a current marriage certificate, as well as other supporting documents. Along with your application, you will need to submit payment for the application fee and biometrics fee. Once USCIS has approved your application, they will issue you a new Conditional Green Card.

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

Yes. If you move to another state, you would need to file a new application with the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) office in the new state for a new Conditional Green Card.

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

Yes, individuals with Conditional Green Cards must file taxes in the same way as any U.S. resident. This includes filing a federal tax return as well as any local or state taxes that may be due in West Virginia.

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

Yes, you can work legally with a Conditional Green Card in West Virginia. However, it is important to remember that the conditions must be met within two years of entering the U.S. or the cardholder will be subject to removal.

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

Yes, West Virginia does allow family members to visit or live with you when you hold a Conditional Green Card. You will need to provide documentation to prove the family relationship, such as a birth certificate or marriage certificate. Additionally, if family members plan on living with you, they must also apply for a green card or other form of legal immigration status.

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

Yes, those who have been issued a Conditional Green Card in West Virginia must demonstrate English language proficiency or an understanding of the responsibilities and rights as a U.S. permanent resident.

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

If you were granted a Conditional Green Card in West Virginia, you can apply to remove the conditions during the 90-day period before your card expires. You must file Form I-751, Petition to Remove Conditions on Residence, with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). The filing fee is $595, plus an $85 biometric fee if you are between the ages of 14 and 78. You must also include evidence of a good faith marriage with your petition, such as joint bank statements, proof of shared leasing or ownership of property, birth certificates for any children born to the couple, and other relevant documents. Once the form is approved, you will receive a permanent Green Card.

For more information on the process for removing conditions on a Conditional Green Card in West Virginia, please visit the USCIS website at www.uscis.gov.

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

No, West Virginia 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 West Virginia?

Yes, there are restrictions on renting an apartment or purchasing property with a Conditional Green Card in West Virginia. A conditional green card holder must provide a valid Social Security number and proof of legal residence in the state before being allowed to rent or purchase property. Non-residents may only purchase a residential property if they obtain a valid business license from the West Virginia Secretary of State’s Office. Additionally, some landlords may require the prospective tenant to pay a security deposit and provide references before signing a lease agreement.

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

The best way to stay informed of changes to the requirements for obtaining a Conditional Green Card in West Virginia is to regularly check the official USCIS website and the West Virginia Department of Homeland Security website. Additionally, you may want to consult an immigration attorney to keep up to date with changes in immigration law.