by A U.S. marriage green card lets a foreigner married to a U.S. citizen or permanent resident live and work in the U.S. permanently. The green card holder can live anywhere in the U.S. with permanent resident status, until the marriage visa expires or they become a U.S. citizen through naturalization. We’ve covered the processing, eligibility and requirements based on the question asked. Take note: the process can be complicated, so seeking legal advice from an immigration attorney is recommended. They can help you navigate the process and make sure all requirements are met.
What is the eligibility for a marriage green card?
To be eligible you and your partner must be legally married, and any previous marriages must have been legally dissolved. The U.S. citizen spouse must be at least 21 years old to petition for you the foreign national spouse.
What are the U.S. marriage green card application process?
1. The first thing is your U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident spouse filing Form I-130 with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). This form shows the relationship between the U.S. citizen or a permanent resident and their foreign spouse. A filing fee of $675 is required for paper filing, or $625 for online filing.
2. After submitting Form I-130, USCIS will process the application and may request additional documents or information. This is known as a Request for Evidence (RFE).
3. If the foreign national spouse is already in the U.S., they can file Form I-485 (Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status). If the foreign national spouse lives outside the U.S., they will file Form DS-260 (Immigrant Visa Electronic Application).
4. Once USCIS receives the I-485 application, the foreign national spouse will be scheduled for a biometrics appointment. Fingerprints and photographs will be taken for background checks during this appointment.
5. Attending an interview. Both you and your U.S. partner must attend an interview at a USCIS office. The interview depends on the legitimacy of the marriage and eligibility for the green card. So be prepared!
6. Lastly, USCIS will make a decision on the green card application after the interview. If you get approved, you as the foreign national spouse will receive your green card. This grants you lawful permanent resident status in the U.S. Yes congratulations!
What are the required documents for getting U.S. marriage green card through marriage?
First, you need to make sure that all forms are filled out correctly and all required documents are provided to avoid delays or chances of denials. Below are the general list of documents you will be needing to apply for a green card through marriage.
- Form I-130 – Petition for Alien Relative. (your U.S. partner files this petition)
- Form I-485 – Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status (if in the U.S.).
- Form DS-260 – Immigrant Visa Electronic Application (if outside the U.S.).
- Marriage certificate – To prove the legal validity of the marriage. (you and your partner provides this)
- Proof of U.S. citizenship – Your U.S. partner provides a birth certificate, passport, or certificate of citizenship.
- Divorce decrees or death certificates – You and your partner provides this for any previous marriages.
- Passport-style photos – As specified by USCIS. (you and your partner)
- Birth certificate – You, as the foreign national spouse provides this.
- Financial documents – Your U.S. partner provides this to show he/she can financially support you the foreign national spouse.
- Medical examination results – You, as the foreign national provides this as required by USCIS.
- Police clearance certificates – You, as the foreign national spouse, must provide this. You must also provide certificates from any other country where you lived for more than six months.
What is the estimated timeline to get U.S. marriage green card?
As of January 2025, the average processing time for a marriage green card is about 10 months. But, times for visa processing depends on individual circumstances and whether the applicant is in the U.S. or abroad.
- Spouses (inside the U.S.) marriage green card: 9.3 months
- Spouses (outside U.S.) spouse visa: 14.3 months
The estimated timeline includes: Receiving a receipt notice 2 to 3 weeks after filing forms I-130 and I-485. A biometrics appointment scheduled 5 to 8 weeks after filing. If a Request for Evidence (RFE) is received, it typically arrives within 2 to 3 months of filing. The green card marriage interview is scheduled 8 to 12 months after filing. Receiving the green card either right after the interview or 30 to 60 days after the interview.
What are the costs of getting a U.S. marriage green card through marriage?
The cost for a green card through marriage is approximately $3,005 if the applicant is in the U.S. or $1,750 if the applicant is outside the U.S. These costs include filing fees for various forms. Below is a breakdown of these fees:
Form I-130 filing fee $675 for paper filling or $625 for online.
I-485 filing fee if in U.S. $1,440
DS-260 filing fee if you’re outside U.S. $445
I-765 application for Employment Authorization (optional) $260 if you’re filing the I-485 first, or $520 for the general filing fee.
I-131 Application for Advance Parole (Travel Document, Optional) $630
Note: This information is for general knowledge only. It is not financial or legal advice. It is important to conduct thorough independent research. We don’t offer immigration or legal services. Individuals should consult with qualified professionals for personalized guidance.
