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Getting Started |
In August 2005 I received my conditional permanent resident card. This card was only valid for 2 years. In May 2007 I would have to submit a request to remove the condition, and if approved, I would get a permanent resident card with no strings attached. Keep in mind, the USCIS does NOT send you a reminder letter. You simply have to remember to submit a request to remove the condition. Once you submit a request (you can do this 90 days before your conditional resident card expires), you and your spouse might be called up for an interview. This procedure normally takes about 6 months. We knew that my husband would be out of the country around that time (yes, another tour of duty!) so we requested to waive the interview. Our request was honored, and one year later I received my permanent resident card. This card is valid for 10 years and can easily be renewed/extended. My USCIS adventure does not stop here. In September 2008 I will apply for American citizenship! You can read more about this on My Blog. |
While you wait for your temporary work permit (EAD), your life is literally in limbo. You are not allowed to work, you can not open a bank account or apply for a U.S. driver's license. And more importantly, you are not allowed to travel abroad without an advance parole document. Rule number two: when you apply for an advance parole document, do not make any travel arrangments until you actually get the approval. My husband and I learned it - again - the hard way. In March 2004 we had to postpone a trip to France since my request for an advance parole document had not yet been approved. A few months later I received my EAD, and I could finally apply for a social security number at a local Social Security Administration (this procedure can take anywhere from one week up to three months). Now I could apply for a job, open a bank account and apply for a U.S. driver's license. When things finally started to fall in place, my husband had to leave for his first tour of duty in the Middle-East... but that's a whole different story! |
Before you get your conditional resident card: |
After you get your conditional resident card: |