As part of ongoing efforts to improve processing times, U.S. Citizenship & Immigration Services (USCIS) has implemented a risk-based approach that waives interviews for certain conditional permanent residents (CPR) applicants who filed Form I-751, Petition to Remove Conditions on Residence. Non-citizens who obtain permanent resident status based on a marriage that began less than two years prior receive their status on a conditional basis for two years. Filing Form I-751 enables these CPRs to remove the conditions on permanent resident status.
Effective immediately, this update replaces the prior agency guidance that required CPRs to undergo a mandatory interview if they obtained CPR status via consular processing. Under the new risk-based approach, USCIS may waive the interview requirement if the adjudicating officer determines that:
- The applicant generally meets the eligibility requirements;
- There is sufficient evidence of a bona fide marriage;
- The joint-filing requirement is eligible for a waiver (if applicable);
- There is no indication of fraud or misrepresentation in supporting documents;
- There are no complex facts or issues to resolve; and
- There is no criminal history that would render the CPR removable.
By adopting this new risk-based approach, USCIS hopes to increase efficiency and decrease processing times. This update comes as a result of the agency's continuing efforts to better allocate staffing resources, eliminate burdens for applicants seeking benefits, and address the concerns of the public and stakeholders.
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