On April 7, 2022, the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) announced a new policy adopting a risk-based approach to determine when interviews can be waived for conditional permanent residents (CPRs) who are removing conditions on their green cards using Form I-751 (Petition to Remove Conditions on Residence).
Previously, USCIS required all conditional permanent residents who obtained their status through consular processing to attend an in-person interview. However, the agency later concluded that this blanket requirement was not an “efficient use of USCIS staffing resources.”
“Implementing a risk-based strategic approach to the CPR interview process will improve efficiency, shorten processing times, and better allocate agency resources—all while maintaining strong fraud detection and national security standards,” said USCIS Director Ur M. Jaddou. “This policy aligns with USCIS goals to remove unnecessary barriers in the immigration system, reduce burdens on applicants, and address concerns raised by the public and stakeholders.”
Who Is Eligible for an Interview Waiver?
Under the new risk-based framework, USCIS officers may waive the interview requirement if the following conditions are met:
- There is sufficient evidence to demonstrate that the marriage is genuine and not fraudulent.
- The joint filing requirement has been met or a valid waiver applies.
- There are no signs of fraud or misrepresentation in the supporting documents.
- There are no complex issues or conflicting facts that require clarification.
- The applicant has no criminal history that could lead to removal or deportation.
A noncitizen who obtained permanent resident status through a marriage that began less than two years before approval receives a conditional green card valid for two years. To maintain lawful permanent resident status, they must take timely action to remove these conditions.
How to Remove Conditions on Permanent Residence
Conditional permanent residents based on marriage must file Form I-751 within the 90-day period before the two-year anniversary of receiving CPR status. This petition allows USCIS to verify that the marriage remains bona fide and that the couple continues to meet eligibility requirements for permanent residency.
How Green Card Link Can Help
Navigating USCIS policy updates can be stressful, but you don’t have to do it alone. The immigration attorneys at Green Card Link stay current with every regulation and policy change to ensure your application is handled efficiently and correctly.
Whether you need help filing Form I-751, preparing supporting documents, or determining eligibility for an interview waiver, Green Card Link provides the personalized legal guidance you need for peace of mind.
📅 Schedule a consultation today with an experienced immigration attorney at Green Card Link to get started on removing conditions from your permanent residency.