Valid passport required for lifting conditions

[Dan&Ellen 1]

I am approaching the start of the 90 day period to remove conditions.

Trouble is my UK passport expires before the 90 days are up.

I applied online for a new passport as you cannot apply at the consulate/embassy any more. Paid the fee.

The guidelines stated that if you're applying from overseas, a colour photocopy is sufficient. Turns out that only applies for some countries but not the USA.

They said if there are no issues it could take at least 6 weeks.

Is this going to be a problem for lifting conditions, can it be done without a passport, or an invalid one if I ask them to keep my passport application open until the conditions on my green card are lifted?

Alternatively I could take the hit on the application fee, fly to the UK and pay for the instant service there, but I only recently visited and would rather not have to shell out the extra expense if it is avoidable.

[newacct 688]

No, you do not need a passport for ROC.