đź’Ť Marriage to a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident is one of the most common ways to obtain a green card. However, the process involves strict documentation and legal scrutiny to ensure the relationship is genuine.
This article explains how to navigate the U.S. marriage-based green card process with professional legal guidance.
Who Is Eligible?
You may qualify if:
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You’re legally married to a U.S. citizen or green card holder
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Your marriage is genuine, not entered into for immigration purposes
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You can demonstrate shared life evidence (joint leases, accounts, travel, etc.)
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Your sponsor meets income requirements to support you
Types of Applicants
👤 Spouse of U.S. Citizen
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Considered an “Immediate Relative”
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No wait time for a visa number
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May apply for adjustment of status if already in the U.S.
👤 Spouse of Green Card Holder (LPR)
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Subject to visa number availability under the F2A category
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May face wait times depending on your country of origin
Application Process
If Spouse Is in the U.S.
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đź“ť U.S. citizen/LPR files Form I-130
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🧾 Applicant files Form I-485 (Adjustment of Status) concurrently (if eligible)
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📸 Submit evidence of bona fide marriage
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🗓️ Attend biometrics appointment and green card interview
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âś… Receive conditional (2-year) or permanent (10-year) green card
If Spouse Is Abroad
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đź“ť File Form I-130
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📤 Wait for approval and National Visa Center (NVC) processing
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🏢 Attend consular interview in home country
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âś… Enter the U.S. as a lawful permanent resident
Conditional vs. Permanent Green Card
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If married less than 2 years at time of approval → Conditional 2-year green card
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Must file Form I-751 to remove conditions within 90 days of expiration
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If married 2+ years → You receive a 10-year green card
How BorderlessLawyers Supports You
đź’Ľ We help with:
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Strategic filing based on your location and spouse’s status
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Accurate preparation of all USCIS and consular forms
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Compiling strong evidence of your bona fide marriage
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Interview preparation
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Waivers in case of overstay, entry without inspection, or inadmissibility
FAQs
Q: Can I work while my green card is processing?
Yes, with a work permit (EAD) if applying for adjustment of status.
Q: What if my spouse is abusive or I divorce during the process?
You may still qualify for a green card via VAWA self-petition or removal of conditions with waiver.
Q: What if we marry on a tourist visa?
It’s possible, but intent matters—speak with a lawyer before filing.
Marrying a U.S. Citizen or Resident? Let Us Guide You Home.
BorderlessLawyers offers trusted support for love-based immigration—from petitions to interviews, we’re by your side.