Want to Apply for a Marriage Green Card? Know the Details!

So, the two of you just got hitched, and now the next big thing on your mind is to apply for a green card through marriage. First of all, know that it is an absolutely common and legalized practice among couples. Couples around the globe opt for marriage green cards in order to secure the status of permanent residence in the USA. If you are unsure about the legalities and paperwork and want to delve deeper into the world of marriage green card application, then this blog will simplify the intricacies for you. 

Read on to understand the nuances of green card application through a marriage visa!

Marriage green card application- What does it mean?

If your spouse has a green card or US citizenship, then this can be your golden chance to get a green card for yourself. This will enable you to stay along with your spouse as well as work freely across the United States. As a green card holder, you will acquire the status of permanent residency. After three years, you can also apply for US citizenship. 

The best part is that a marriage green card is the swiftest way to obtain permanent residency in the US. Know that just getting married is not enough for obtaining a green card. Rather, it is one of the multiple eligibility criteria which facilitates smooth marriage green card application.

Categories under which you can apply for a marriage-based green card

• Adjustment of status: If both of you already stay in the USA, you can apply for a green card after marriage using the adjustment of status methodology without having to leave the country. You can avail of this facility only in case you possess an immediate immigrant visa. Following are the different eligibility criteria that you need to fulfill to apply for a green card through adjustment of status:

1. You should have an immigrant visa immediately available.
2. You should be legally wedded to your partner.
3. You must have legal and lawful entry to the USA.
4. The marriage should be a bona fide one and not fake.

Consular processing: If you are unable to apply for a green card through marriage while using the adjustment of status methodology, then you have another alternative – consular processing. This is meant for those who do not live in the USA and wish to move to the country to be with his/her spouse. The majority of the immigrants opt for green card applications through consular processing. The US citizen needs to file a petition with the USCIS, and once the petition gets approved, it gets forwarded to the NVC or National Visa Centre. After that, the consular interview takes place. Generally, the interview spans for about half an hour. 

• Green cards for same-sex couples: If both of you belong to the LGTBQ category, then also you can apply for a marriage green card by using either the consular processing or adjustment of status technique. Make sure your marriage is legal as per the jurisdiction of the place where your marriage took place. In case your marriage is lawful, feel free to apply for a green card using a marriage visa.

Time required for marriage-based green card processing

Generally, the time taken ranges from nine to thirty-six months. The time requirement mainly depends upon the fact that whether your spouse has US citizenship or is a green card holder. It is recommended to hire the expert legal services of professionals who guide you with all the details as well as help you with the paperwork.

Expenses related to the marriage-based green card application

If you live outside the United States and wish to file a green card application through marriage, then the charges will be $1200. However, if you already stay within the US, you need to pay $1760. Besides, there will be medical examinations, for which you are required to pay somewhere around $200 to $500. 

Wrapping up

Make your marriage blissful by applying for a green card using a marriage visa. Avoid the complications of long-distance relationships and take the help of experts who guide you to apply green card for the USA.