FAQs

Get quick answers to frequently asked questions on a range of immigration topics.

Green Card Approval and Benefits

How long do I need to stay married after getting a green card to keep my status?

If you have a conditional marriage-based green card, you’ll need to stay married for at least two years to remove the conditions and get a permanent 10-year green card. This involves jointly filing Form I-751 with your spouse during the 90-day window before your conditional green card expires. USCIS will evaluate whether your marriage is still genuine before granting you a permanent green card.

If you divorce before the two-year mark, you may still be able to remove the conditions by filing a waiver, but you’ll need to provide evidence that your marriage was entered in good faith. If you have already received your 10-year green card, a divorce will not impact your green card status, though it may affect your timeline to apply for U.S. citizenship.

Can I apply for U.S. citizenship after getting my marriage-based green card?

Yes, you can apply for U.S. citizenship after getting your marriage-based green card, but the timeline depends on how long you’ve been a green card holder. If you received your green card through marriage to a U.S. citizen and you remain married to that citizen, you are eligible to apply for naturalization after three years of continuous residence as a green card holder. During this time, you must also meet other requirements, such as living in the U.S. for at least half of that three-year period and demonstrating good moral character. If your marriage ends or if your spouse is a green card holder (not a U.S. citizen), you must wait five years before applying for citizenship. Becoming a U.S. citizen provides additional benefits, like the ability to vote and greater ease in sponsoring family members.

What happens after I get my marriage-based green card?

Once you receive your marriage-based green card, you become a lawful permanent resident of the United States. This means you can live and work in the U.S. without restrictions.

If you’ve been married for less than two years when your green card is approved, you’ll receive a conditional green card, which is valid for two years. Before it expires, you and your spouse will need to jointly file Form I-751 to remove the conditions and obtain a 10-year permanent green card.

After getting your green card, you also gain access to benefits such as applying for a Social Security number, opening bank accounts, and obtaining a driver’s license. Additionally, you can travel abroad, though it’s important not to spend too much time outside the U.S. without maintaining your residency ties.

Spouse's Citizenship

What’s the difference between applying through a U.S. citizen vs. a green card holder spouse?

The main differences between applying for a green card through a U.S. citizen spouse versus a green card holder spouse revolve around processing time and visa availability. If you are married to a U.S. citizen, you are classified as an “immediate relative,” meaning there is no cap on the number of visas available, and your green card process typically moves faster, usually taking 10 to 14 months. On the other hand, if your spouse is a green card holder, you fall under the “family preference” category, where visas are limited. This means you may need to wait months or even years for a visa number to become available before applying. Additionally, spouses of U.S. citizens can adjust their status in the U.S. even if they overstayed their visa, while spouses of green card holders must be more cautious about maintaining their status during the process.

Can I apply for a green card if my spouse is a green card holder and not a U.S. Citizen?

Yes, you can apply for a green card if your spouse is a green card holder (lawful permanent resident) rather than a U.S. citizen, but there are a few differences compared to applying through a U.S. citizen spouse. One of the main differences is the timeline; spouses of green card holders may need to wait longer for an available visa number, which can add months or even years to the process. Additionally, while your application is pending, maintaining your current legal status is crucial, as overstaying your visa could complicate or even jeopardize your ability to get a green card. However, once a visa number becomes available, the rest of the process is similar, and you can apply for either Adjustment of Status (if you’re in the U.S.) or go through consular processing abroad.

Travel Restrictions

Can I use my Travel Document to go on vacation?

We generally advise against using your travel document (Advance Parole) to leave the U.S. for a vacation. Advance Parole during pending green card applications is primarily intended for emergent circumstances, such as urgent family matters or legitimate business purposes that require your presence abroad. Using it for leisure travel carries certain risks, including the possibility of delays or unexpected issues when re-entering the U.S. Moreover, USCIS or Customs and Border Protection officers may scrutinize your reason for travel, and if they believe the trip was not urgent or essential, it could complicate your green card application. It’s usually best to avoid international travel unless absolutely necessary until you receive your permanent green card to prevent any negative impact on your case.

Will leaving the U.S. affect my pending green card application?

Leaving the U.S. without proper authorization can significantly impact your pending marriage-based green card application. If you have applied for Adjustment of Status (Form I-485) while in the U.S., leaving without obtaining Advance Parole (Form I-131) will cause your green card application to be considered abandoned, meaning USCIS will deny your request to adjust your status. This can result in major delays and additional costs, as you may need to start the process again from scratch. If you do need to travel, it’s essential to apply for Advance Parole before leaving the country to protect your application.

For those going through consular processing abroad, leaving the U.S. is not an issue, but you need to ensure all documents and interviews are completed before re-entering.

What is advance parole, and do I need it to travel?

Advance Parole is a travel document that allows you to leave and re-enter the United States while your marriage-based green card application is pending. If you’ve filed for Adjustment of Status (Form I-485) and want to travel abroad before your green card is approved, you need to obtain Advance Parole by submitting Form I-131. Without this document, leaving the U.S. will lead to your green card application being considered abandoned, which can result in denial.

Once approved, Advance Parole allows you to return to the U.S. and continue the green card process. It’s important to apply for it well before any planned travel, as processing can take several months.

Can I travel while my marriage-based green card is pending?

Yes, you can travel while your marriage-based green card is pending, but only if you have proper authorization. If you’re applying from within the U.S. (Adjustment of Status), you must obtain Advance Parole (Form I-131) before leaving the country. Advance Parole allows you to travel internationally and re-enter the U.S. without jeopardizing your green card application. Leaving the U.S. without Advance Parole will result in your adjustment of status application being considered abandoned, potentially ending your green card process.

If you’re applying through consular processing from abroad, you can generally travel freely until your immigrant visa is issued. Always keep in mind that any travel should be carefully timed to avoid delays or complications with your green card process.

Complications and Denials

How can I prove my marriage is genuine for immigration purposes?

To prove that your marriage is genuine for immigration purposes, you need to provide substantial evidence showing that your relationship is real and not solely for obtaining a green card. Key evidence includes documents demonstrating shared life commitments, such as joint bank account statements, shared leases or mortgage agreements, utility bills with both names, and joint tax returns. Photos of the two of you at significant events, trips, or with family members are also helpful. Affidavits from friends and family who can attest to your relationship are another good way to demonstrate authenticity. The more evidence you provide that shows your lives are intertwined—such as proof of shared finances, insurance policies, or messages and correspondence—the stronger your case will be.

What if my spouse and I are separated or divorced during the process?

If you and your spouse separate or divorce during the green card process, it can complicate your application. If you are still in the process of adjusting your status or awaiting approval, USCIS may deny the application since your eligibility is based on being married to a U.S. citizen or permanent resident. However, if you have a conditional green card and divorce before removing the conditions, you can still apply to remove conditions by filing Form I-751 with a waiver. You will need to prove that the marriage was genuine and not for immigration purposes, even though it ended. The burden of proof becomes higher in these situations, and you may need substantial evidence to support your case. You should strongly consider working with an immigration attorney in this situation.

Can I appeal a marriage-based green card denial?

Yes, you can appeal a marriage-based green card denial, but whether it’s the right option depends on the reasons for the denial. To appeal, you would need to file Form I-290B, Notice of Appeal or Motion, within 30 days of receiving the denial notice. You can either request that USCIS reconsider its decision (a Motion to Reconsider) or that they reopen your case to consider new evidence (a Motion to Reopen).

Alternatively, you can take your appeal to the Administrative Appeals Office (AAO). Keep in mind that appeals can be complex, requiring strong legal arguments and, sometimes, additional evidence to counter the reasons for denial. In some cases, it might be simpler to correct the issues and reapply instead.

What happens if my marriage-based green card is denied?

If your marriage-based green card is denied, it’s important to understand why so you can decide your next steps. Common reasons for denial include missing documents, inconsistencies in your application, insufficient evidence of a genuine marriage, or issues in your immigration history. Once you receive a denial notice, you may have options like filing a Motion to Reopen or Reconsider if you believe there was an error in the decision.

You can also appeal the decision to the Administrative Appeals Office (AAO) or reapply if the issues that led to the denial can be resolved. If you’re in the U.S. and your application is denied, you might also face removal proceedings, so it’s crucial to act quickly. Having an experienced immigration attorney can make a big difference in these cases.

Legal Status and Work Authorization

Is it legal to stay in the U.S. after filing a green card application?

Yes, it is generally legal to stay in the U.S. after filing a marriage-based green card application, especially if you have submitted an Adjustment of Status (Form I-485) while already in the U.S. Once your adjustment of status application is filed, you enter a period known as “authorized stay,” which means you can legally remain in the country while your case is processed. During this time, you should avoid leaving the U.S. without first getting Advance Parole (Form I-131), as leaving without it could result in your green card application being considered abandoned.

If you have overstayed a visa or entered without inspection, filing for adjustment of status may also prevent deportation during the pending process, depending on your specific circumstances.

What happens if I overstay my visa before applying for a green card?

If you overstay your visa before applying for a marriage-based green card, you may still be eligible to adjust your status, especially if you are married to a U.S. citizen. Spouses of U.S. citizens are considered “immediate relatives,” which means they can apply for a green card even if they have overstayed their visa. However, if you’re married to a green card holder and overstayed your visa, the situation becomes more complicated, as you may need to leave the U.S. and apply for an immigrant visa abroad. It’s important to address visa overstays carefully, as leaving the country after an overstay of more than 180 days could trigger a ban on reentry for several years. Consulting an immigration attorney is strongly advised if you are in this situation.

Can I work while waiting for my marriage-based green card?

Yes, you can work while waiting for your marriage-based green card, but you’ll need to have proper work authorization first. If you’re applying for a green card from within the U.S. (Adjustment of Status), you can file Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization, along with your green card application.

Once approved, you’ll receive an Employment Authorization Document (EAD), often called a work permit, which allows you to work legally while your green card application is processed. It typically takes 5 to 7 months to receive your work permit after filing. If you’re applying from outside the U.S. (consular processing), you won’t be able to work in the U.S. until your green card is approved and you arrive as a lawful permanent resident.

Sponsorship Requirements

Can I Use Assets to Meet the Income Requirement?

Yes, you can use assets to help meet the income requirement for a marriage-based green card if your income alone doesn’t meet the threshold. Assets can include cash, savings accounts, property, stocks, or other valuable resources that can be easily converted into cash within a year. To determine if your assets are enough, their combined value must equal at least three times the difference between your income and the required 125% of the federal poverty level. For example, if you’re $5,000 short of the income requirement, you’ll need assets worth at least $15,000. For spouses of green card holders, the requirement is higher—assets must be five times the shortfall. Proper documentation of the assets’ value and proof of ownership is crucial when using this option.

Can I Use a Household Member to Meet the Income Requirement?

Yes, you can use a household member to help meet the income requirement for sponsoring your spouse for a marriage-based green card. This is known as using a “household member co-sponsor,” and they must be willing to contribute their income or assets to meet the 125% of the federal poverty level requirement. The household member must be living with you and willing to sign Form I-864A, Contract Between Sponsor and Household Member, which legally commits them to financially support the sponsored immigrant if necessary. Common household members used for this purpose include parents, siblings, or adult children living at the same address. This is a helpful option if the primary sponsor doesn’t meet the income requirement on their own.

Can a joint sponsor help if my spouse doesn’t earn enough?

Yes, a joint sponsor can help if your spouse doesn’t meet the income requirement for a marriage-based green card. A joint sponsor is a U.S. citizen or green card holder who agrees to take on the financial responsibility for your application, just like your spouse. The joint sponsor must meet the income requirement of at least 125% of the federal poverty level for their household size, which can include their own family and anyone else they have previously sponsored. They will need to file Form I-864, Affidavit of Support, just like your spouse. Using a joint sponsor is a common solution for couples where the petitioner’s income alone isn’t enough to meet the requirement.

What are the financial requirements to sponsor a spouse for a green card?

To sponsor a spouse for a marriage-based green card, the U.S. citizen or green card holder must meet certain financial requirements to demonstrate they can support their spouse and prevent them from becoming a public charge. The primary requirement is to have an income of at least 125% of the federal poverty level for your household size. This income requirement can change each year, depending on the federal poverty guidelines, so it’s important to check the current figures. If the sponsoring spouse does not meet the income threshold, they can use assets, such as savings or property, to make up the difference.

Additionally, you can have a joint sponsor—another U.S. citizen or green card holder—help meet the income requirements by completing a separate Form I-864, Affidavit of Support.

Can my spouse sponsor me if they don’t meet the income requirement?

If your spouse doesn’t meet the income requirement to sponsor you for a marriage-based green card, there are still options. To sponsor a spouse, the petitioner must demonstrate an income at least 125% above the federal poverty line. If they fall short, you can use assets to make up the difference or find a joint sponsor.

A joint sponsor is typically a U.S. citizen or green card holder who meets the income requirement and is willing to share the financial responsibility for your application. This person will also need to file Form I-864, Affidavit of Support, and meet the same financial standards. Using a joint sponsor is a common solution when the petitioner’s income alone isn’t enough.

Conditional VS Permanent Green Card

What happens if my marriage ends before I get a permanent green card?

If your marriage ends before you receive a permanent green card, you may still be able to stay in the U.S., but it requires taking additional steps. If you have a conditional green card and your marriage ends in divorce or annulment, you can file Form I-751 with a request for a waiver of the joint filing requirement. You will need to provide strong evidence that your marriage was genuine, even though it ended. This might include joint financial documents, proof of cohabitation, and statements from people who can attest to your relationship’s authenticity. USCIS will review your case carefully, and you may need to attend an interview to further explain your circumstances. It’s critical to show that the marriage was entered in good faith and not for immigration purposes.

How do I remove conditions on my green card after 2 years?

To remove conditions on your marriage-based green card after two years, you’ll need to file Form I-751, Petition to Remove Conditions on Residence. This must be done within the 90-day period before your conditional green card expires. You and your spouse will need to provide evidence that your marriage is still genuine, such as joint financial records, photos, lease agreements, and other proof of your life together.

If your marriage has ended due to divorce or other reasons, you may still apply for a waiver of the joint filing requirement by showing that your marriage was entered in good faith. After submitting Form I-751 and supporting documents, USCIS will review your case, and you may need to attend an interview before receiving your 10-year permanent green card.

What is a conditional marriage-based green card?

A conditional marriage-based green card is a temporary green card issued to spouses who have been married for less than two years at the time their application is approved. This conditional green card is valid for two years and is intended to ensure that the marriage is genuine and not just for immigration benefits. Before the two-year period ends, you and your spouse must jointly file Form I-751, Petition to Remove Conditions on Residence, to prove that your marriage is still valid and to obtain a permanent green card.

Removing conditions is an important step that transforms your temporary residency into a permanent one, allowing you to live and work in the U.S. without further time limits.

Costs and Fees

Can I pay the green card application fees in installments?

Unfortunately, USCIS does not allow you to pay the green card application fees in installments—you must pay the required fees in full when you submit your forms. This includes the filing fee for Form I-130 and, if applying from within the U.S., Form I-485 and the biometrics fee. If these fees are difficult to manage upfront, consider saving gradually or exploring options like personal loans to cover the costs.

If hiring an attorney, many law firms offer flexible payment plans for their services, allowing you to spread out the cost of legal assistance while ensuring your application is completed properly. It’s important to plan ahead to cover these expenses since incomplete payment will result in delays.

How much does it cost to apply for a marriage-based green card?

The cost to apply for a marriage-based green card includes several fees. For most applicants in the U.S., the main costs are the USCIS filing fees: Form I-130 ($625 online filing; $675 paper filing) and Form I-485 ($1,440), totaling $2,115. If applying from outside the U.S., you’ll pay the I-130 fee and a consular processing fee of around $325, plus a $120 fee for the Affidavit of Support, which brings the total to about $1,070.

Additional costs can include medical exam fees, translation services, passport photos, and potential attorney fees if you hire a lawyer to help with your case. These costs can vary, but it’s important to budget for the entire process to avoid surprises.

Interview and Approval

What happens after the marriage-based green card interview?

After the marriage-based green card interview, the officer may approve your application on the spot or inform you that your case needs additional review. If approved, you’ll typically receive an official notice, followed by your green card in the mail within a few weeks. Sometimes, USCIS may need more information or issue a Request for Evidence (RFE) if they need clarification on specific details, such as missing documents or inconsistencies noted during the interview. If additional information is required, respond quickly and thoroughly to avoid further delays.

If your case is approved, and you’ve been married for less than two years, you’ll receive a conditional green card that is valid for two years, after which you’ll need to apply to remove conditions.

Do both spouses need to attend the green card interview?

Yes, in most cases, both spouses are required to attend the marriage-based green card interview. This interview is an essential part of proving that your marriage is genuine and not just for immigration purposes. If you’re applying from within the United States (Adjustment of Status), you and your spouse will be interviewed together at your local USCIS office. If you’re applying from abroad, the U.S. citizen or green card holder spouse may not be required to attend the interview at the consulate, but it’s still highly recommended to provide support if possible.

If either spouse cannot attend due to an emergency, it’s important to notify USCIS or the consulate immediately, as missing an interview without notice can lead to delays or even denials.

What happens if my green card interview goes wrong?

If your marriage-based green card interview doesn’t go as planned, don’t panic—there are still options. Sometimes, the interviewing officer may issue a Request for Evidence (RFE) if they need more information to make a decision. In other cases, they might schedule a follow-up interview, possibly a “Stokes interview,” where both spouses are questioned separately to verify their answers match. If your application is denied, you’ll receive a notice explaining the reasons, and you may be able to appeal or reapply if the issues can be addressed. It’s important to remain calm and provide any requested information quickly and accurately to improve your chances of a positive outcome. Having legal guidance during this stage can also be incredibly helpful.

How can I prepare for my marriage-based green card interview?

Preparing for your marriage-based green card interview involves both understanding what to expect and gathering the necessary documents. First, review your application thoroughly so that both you and your spouse are familiar with all the details you provided. Be ready to answer questions about your relationship, from how you met to your daily routines. Bring key documents, like updated proof of your marriage, joint financial records, and recent photos together. Practice answering questions clearly and consistently but avoid memorizing responses, as this can come across as rehearsed. Dress professionally and arrive on time. The goal is to demonstrate that your relationship is genuine, so try to stay calm, relaxed, and answer honestly.

What questions are asked during a marriage-based green card interview?

During a marriage-based green card interview, the officer will ask a variety of questions to verify that your marriage is genuine. These questions are meant to determine how well you and your spouse know each other and whether your relationship is authentic, not just for immigration purposes. Expect questions about how you met, details of your wedding, and your daily routines, such as “Where did you go on your first date?” or “What side of the bed does your spouse sleep on?” They may also ask about your family, hobbies, and shared financial responsibilities. The officer may direct questions to either spouse separately or together, so it’s important to be prepared and consistent. Relax and answer honestly—this is an opportunity to share your genuine story.

Timeline and Processing

How long does it take to get a green card after an interview?

After your marriage-based green card interview, it generally takes two to four weeks to receive a decision, though this timeline can vary. In some cases, USCIS may approve your application on the spot, while in others, additional review is needed, which can lead to delays. If your case is straightforward and all documents are in order, you may receive your green card within a few weeks.

However, if the officer needs more evidence or if your application requires further background checks, the decision may take several months. If you haven’t received any notice after 90 days, it might be a good idea to contact USCIS for an update on your case status.

Can I expedite my marriage-based green card application?

Yes, it may be possible to expedite your marriage-based green card application, but it depends on your situation. USCIS allows expedited processing for specific reasons, such as severe financial loss, urgent humanitarian reasons, or if your case is in the national interest of the U.S. To request an expedite, you or your attorney must contact USCIS and provide strong evidence supporting your request. Keep in mind that expedite requests are rarely granted unless there are exceptional circumstances, and processing times are still subject to certain delays.

Alternatively, if you’re outside the U.S. and facing significant delays, contacting your local consulate for assistance can sometimes help, especially if there are urgent medical or family-related reasons.

Why is my marriage-based green card taking so long?

There are several reasons why your marriage-based green card application might be taking longer than expected. Common delays include high backlogs at USCIS service centers, processing backlogs at U.S. embassies or consulates, and administrative issues, like requests for additional evidence (RFEs). Errors in your forms or missing documents can also slow things down considerably. If you’re applying from abroad, delays in scheduling your consular interview can add months to your timeline, especially if the embassy is facing staffing issues or local restrictions.

Additionally, green card applications for spouses of permanent residents may take longer because they are subject to visa availability limits, unlike those for spouses of U.S. citizens. Staying organized, responding promptly to any requests, and double-checking your application for accuracy can help avoid some of these delays.

What is the timeline for processing a green card through marriage?

The processing timeline for a marriage-based green card depends on your specific situation, but here’s a general overview. If you are married to a U.S. citizen and are applying from within the United States (Adjustment of Status), the process typically takes 10 to 14 months. It starts with filing Form I-130 and Form I-485, followed by a biometrics appointment, and then an interview with both spouses.

For those applying from outside the U.S. (consular processing), it can take 12 to 18 months or longer, depending on consulate wait times. If married to a green card holder, visa availability can further delay the timeline, sometimes adding several months or even years to the process. Each case is unique, and factors like errors in paperwork or additional requests from USCIS can lead to longer waiting times.

How long does it take to get a marriage-based green card?

The timeline for getting a marriage-based green card can vary depending on several factors, such as whether you’re married to a U.S. citizen or a green card holder and whether you’re applying from inside or outside the U.S. Generally, for spouses of U.S. citizens applying from within the U.S., the process can take around 10 to 14 months. If applying through consular processing from abroad, it may take 12 to 18 months. For spouses of green card holders, the timeline may be longer due to visa availability, sometimes extending up to two years or more.

Factors like backlogs at processing centers and any additional requests for information can also impact your timeline, making it important to submit a complete and accurate application from the start.

General Process and Eligibility

Can I apply for a green card if I got married while on a tourist visa?

Yes, you can apply for a marriage-based green card if you got married while on a tourist visa, but it requires careful consideration. The main concern is proving that you did not intend to misuse your tourist visa to immigrate when you initially entered the U.S. The U.S. immigration authorities are wary of visa fraud, so if you marry and then immediately file for a green card, they may scrutinize whether you had pre-planned intentions to immigrate.

It’s often best to wait a few months before applying, to show that the marriage wasn’t planned before your entry. If done correctly, you can adjust your status within the U.S. without leaving, allowing you to remain with your spouse while the green card application is processed.

What is the process for applying for a green card through marriage?

The process for applying for a green card through marriage involves several key steps. First, your U.S. citizen or permanent resident spouse files Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative, to establish your relationship. If you’re already in the U.S., you may also file Form I-485, Adjustment of Status, to apply for your green card at the same time.

If you’re abroad, you’ll go through consular processing, which means waiting for your I-130 approval and then applying for an immigrant visa at a U.S. consulate. Throughout the process, you’ll need to provide supporting documents, attend a biometrics appointment, and eventually, you and your spouse will attend an interview to demonstrate your relationship is genuine. After approval, you’ll receive your green card, allowing you to live and work in the U.S. permanently.

What documents are needed for a marriage-based green card?

To apply for a marriage-based green card, you’ll need to gather several important documents to prove your eligibility and the authenticity of your relationship. Key documents include a government-issued marriage certificate, proof of your spouse’s U.S. citizenship or permanent residency (like a birth certificate or green card), and evidence showing that your marriage is genuine. This evidence can include photos together, joint bank accounts, leases, and affidavits from friends or family.

You’ll also need passport-style photos, copies of your birth certificates, and proof of any prior marriage terminations, if applicable. Depending on your situation, you might also need additional documents like financial records to show your sponsor meets income requirements. Properly organizing and submitting these documents is essential for a smooth green card application process.

How Do I Apply for a Marriage-Based Green Card?

To apply for a marriage-based green card, there are several steps you need to follow. First, you’ll need to file Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative, to establish your relationship with your spouse. If you are in the U.S., you can often file Form I-485, Adjustment of Status, at the same time to apply for the green card itself. If you are outside of the U.S., you will go through consular processing, which involves working with a U.S. embassy or consulate in your country. You’ll also need to submit supporting documents like proof of your marriage (such as a marriage certificate, photos, and joint financial documents).

Later in the process, you and your spouse will attend an interview to demonstrate that your marriage is genuine. The process can take anywhere from several months to over a year, depending on your circumstances and where you apply.

Who is Eligible for a Marriage-Based Green Card?

To be eligible for a marriage-based green card, you must be married to either a U.S. citizen or a lawful permanent resident (green card holder). The marriage must be legally valid and recognized in the place where it occurred, and both spouses must demonstrate that the marriage is genuine—not just for immigration benefits. If you’re married to a U.S. citizen, you can apply for a green card whether you’re inside or outside of the U.S. If you’re married to a green card holder, your eligibility may also depend on visa availability, which can impact how long you wait for approval.

Additional requirements include passing background checks and not having certain criminal records or immigration violations. Understanding these criteria is key to navigating the green card process successfully.

What is a Marriage-Based Green Card?

A marriage-based green card allows a foreign spouse of a U.S. citizen or permanent resident to live and work permanently in the United States. It’s a type of family-based immigration that’s meant to unite spouses and build a life together in the U.S. To qualify, you need to prove that your marriage is legitimate and not solely for immigration purposes. The process involves submitting an application with supporting documents, attending an interview, and demonstrating the genuineness of your relationship. A marriage-based green card can be conditional if you’ve been married for less than two years, requiring you to file for removal of conditions later on.

Whether you’re just starting the application process or have questions about eligibility, understanding how green cards through marriage work is the first step to beginning your life together in the U.S.

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