A green card through marriage, done right the first time
If you are married to a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident, your spouse can petition for you to become a permanent resident. The process depends on your spouse's status and where you are now.
Married to a U.S. citizen. You are an immediate relative, so there is no wait for a visa number. If you entered the U.S. lawfully and are here now, you may be able to file everything at once and adjust your status without leaving the country. If you live abroad, your case is processed through the National Visa Center and a U.S. consulate.
Married to a green card holder. You fall in the F-2A preference category, which has annual limits. Depending on the Visa Bulletin, you may need to wait before you can apply for the green card itself.
Proving a real marriage. USCIS looks for evidence that the marriage is genuine, such as a shared home, finances, and life together. Most couples attend an interview. We help you gather strong evidence and prepare for the questions.
Conditional green cards. If you have been married less than two years when your green card is approved, you receive a two-year conditional green card. To keep your status, you and your spouse file to remove the conditions (Form I-751) during the 90 days before it expires. If the marriage has ended, waivers may be available.
Planning to file? Schedule a consultation with immigration attorney Galina Urman. Consultations are available in English and Russian.