As a U.S. immigration attorney, I frequently assist clients in navigating the process of obtaining a Green Card through marriage to a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident. This pathway not only allows couples to live together in the United States but also provides a route to lawful permanent residency. In this article, U.S. immigration lawyer will explore the steps involved in obtaining a Green Card through marriage, the requirements, and how our team can support you through this journey.
Understanding the Marriage-Based Green Card
From the standpoint of a U.S. immigration lawyer, a marriage-based Green Card is designed for foreign nationals who are married to U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents. This process can lead to permanent residency in the U.S., allowing individuals to live and work in the country indefinitely. The U.S. immigration system recognizes two main categories for marriage-based Green Cards:
1. Immediate Relatives: Spouses of U.S. citizens are considered immediate relatives and typically do not face any numerical limitations on visas. This means that the processing time is usually shorter.
2. Family Preference Category: Spouses of lawful permanent residents fall under a family preference category, which may have waiting periods due to annual caps on visas.
Steps to Obtain a Green Card Through Marriage
Ensure that you meet the eligibility requirements. The marriage must be legally valid, and both parties must intend to build a life together. It’s important to note that marriages entered into for the sole purpose of obtaining immigration benefits are considered fraudulent and can lead to severe penalties.
The U.S. citizen or permanent resident spouse must file Form I-130, the Petition for Alien Relative. This form establishes the existence of a valid marriage and initiates the Green Card process. Supporting documents, such as marriage certificates, birth certificates, and evidence of the relationship (photos, joint accounts, etc.), must be included. Moreover, if the foreign spouse is already in the U.S., they can apply for Adjustment of Status by filing appropriate Form, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status. This allows them to remain in the U.S. while their application is processed.
Both spouses will typically be required to attend an interview. USCIS will ask questions about the relationship to ensure its legitimacy. It’s crucial to be prepared and provide truthful answers, as inconsistencies can lead to denial. And, if the application is approved, the foreign spouse will receive their Green Card. For marriages less than two years old at the time of approval, the Green Card will be conditional, valid for two years. Couples must file Form I-751 to remove conditions on residence before the card expires.
How U.S. Immigration Attorney at SJ Law Experts Can Assist You
At SJ Law Experts, our experienced U.S. immigration attorneys provide comprehensive support throughout the marriage-based Green Card process:
Our U.S. Immigration lawyers assess your unique situation and guide you through the eligibility requirements and options available. Then, our team of U.S. Immigration lawyers help gather and organize the necessary documentation, ensuring everything is accurate and complete. Moreover, our U.S. immigration attorneys assist in preparing and filing the I-130 and I-485 applications, minimizing the risk of errors.
Our U.S. immigration lawyers prepare you for the USCIS interview, discussing potential questions and helping you present your case effectively. Finally, our U.S. immigration and citizenship attorneys maintain open communication, providing updates and addressing any concerns that may arise throughout the process.
Obtaining a Green Card through marriage is a significant step for couples seeking to build their lives together in the United States. While the process involves multiple steps and requirements, the expertise of U.S. immigration attorneys at SJ Law Experts can make it manageable and successful. If you have questions about the marriage-based Green Card process or need assistance with your application, contact us today at +92 335 411 2288.
