I-751 processing time 2026: how long it takes
How long removing conditions on marriage-based residence (I-751) takes according to the official USCIS median, and when to file so you are not rejected.
Source: USCIS quarterly report — accessed Oct 19, 2026
Track your case with Inmigreat
Inmigreat follows your USCIS and immigration court (EOIR) case and alerts you when it changes.
I-751 median processing time
| Period | Category | Median (months) |
|---|---|---|
| FY2026 Q3 | All | 22.6 |
I-751 key facts
- Form I-751 is used by a conditional permanent resident who obtained status through marriage to apply to remove the conditions. (Source)
- If you file jointly with your spouse, you must file during the 90-day period immediately before your conditional residence expires; if you file before that window, it may be rejected. (Source)
- If you request a waiver of the joint filing requirement, you may file Form I-751 at any time before your conditional permanent resident status expires. (Source)
- Form I-751 can be filed online or on paper; the current edition is 04/01/24. (Source)
A long wait with a strict starting date
Form I-751 turns a conditional, marriage-based residence into permanent residence without conditions. In the USCIS quarterly report it is among the family-based forms with the longest median, so it pays to plan ahead and get it right the first time.
The rule behind most rejections is the joint filing window. If you file with your spouse, you cannot jump ahead: USCIS offers a page to work out the first day of your window. If instead you request a waiver of the joint filing requirement, for example because of a spouse’s death, divorce, abuse or extreme hardship, you can file at any time before the conditional status expires.
Evidence is the heart of the case: USCIS wants to see that the marriage was real and entered in good faith. The form instructions and the USCIS page on removing conditions based on marriage explain which documents work.
Because the wait is long, check which proof of status applies to you while the case is pending and keep the receipt notice with your conditional card. If you move during the process, update your address with USCIS so you do not miss the biometrics appointment or a request for evidence.
If you file online, USCIS sends a receipt notice once you submit; keep it with your records.
More about this form
Frequently asked questions
What if I divorced before filing Form I-751?
USCIS lets you file individually with a waiver of the joint filing requirement, for example if the marriage was entered in good faith and ended by divorce or annulment. Check the form instructions.
When does my joint filing window start?
USCIS has a page, When to File Your Petition to Remove Conditions, to work out the first day of your window. Filing earlier may get the petition rejected.
Will I get a notice if I file online?
Yes. USCIS says it sends a receipt notice after you submit Form I-751 online.
Official sources
- USCIS — Form I-751, Petition to Remove Conditions on Residence → — accessed Oct 19, 2026
- USCIS quarterly report (FY2026 Q3) → — accessed Oct 19, 2026
