Understanding the complexities of the spousal green card application process can be difficult, but with the right information and preparation, you can successfully bring your green card spouse to the United States. Whether you’re a green card holder or a U.S. citizen, this guide will provide you with detailed steps, essential tips, and critical insights to ensure a smooth and successful process.
Securing a spouse visa green card is an important step in reuniting families and building a life together in the United States. For many, the journey to obtain a wife’s green card or husband’s application represents the completion of years of planning, dedication, and hope. This guide will walk you through each stage of the process, from initial eligibility to receiving the permanent resident card marriage.
Before going on the application process, it’s essential to determine if you meet the eligibility requirements for a spousal green card.
For U.S. Citizens:
For Green Card Holders:
The initial step in the process involves filing the appropriate petition with the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
Form I-130: Petition for Alien Relative
After filing Form I-130, you will need to wait for USCIS to process and approve the petition. This can take several months, so patience is essential. USCIS may request additional information or documents during this time.
Once USCIS approves the petition, the case is forwarded to the National Visa Center (NVC) if your spouse is outside the U.S. The NVC will assign a case number and invoice ID number, and you will need to:
The next step involves your spouse attending an interview at the U.S. embassy or consulate in their home country. Throughout the interview, the consular representative will:
If the consular officer approves the visa application, your spouse will receive their spousal visa US. They can then travel to the U.S., where they will be admitted as a US permanent resident spouse.
After arriving in the U.S., your spouse will receive their permanent resident card (commonly known as a green card) by mail. This card is proof of their US residency by marriage.
After your spouse receives their visa and enters the U.S., there are additional steps to ensure their transition to permanent residency is smooth.
After entering the U.S., your spouse should receive their green card by mail within a few weeks. If it does not arrive, contact USCIS for assistance.
Your spouse can apply for a Social Security Number (SSN) if they do not already have one. This number is essential for employment, banking, and other legal activities in the U.S.
Update all relevant records with your spouse’s new status. This includes:
Maintaining permanent resident status requires following to certain rules and regulations. It’s important to be aware of these to avoid risking your spouse’s status.
Your spouse must reside continuously in the U.S. Absences of six months or more can disrupt continuous residence and potentially lead to abandonment of permanent resident status.
Tips:
Your spouse must comply with all U.S. laws. Criminal activity can result in deportation and loss of permanent resident status.
Permanent resident cards are valid for 10 years. Your spouse must renew their green card before it expires by filing Form I-90, Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card.
For many green card holders, the ultimate goal is to become a U.S. citizen. The process involves several steps:
Your spouse can apply for naturalization after being a permanent resident for three years, provided they have been living in marital union with you (a U.S. citizen) for that period.
To apply for naturalization, your spouse must file Form N-400, Application for Naturalization, and attend a naturalization interview.
If your marriage is less than two years old at the time your spouse enters the U.S., they will receive a conditional green card. To remove the conditions, you must file Form I-751, Petition to Remove Conditions on Residence, within 90 days before the card expires.
If your spouse is already in the U.S., you can file Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status, concurrently with Form I-130 or after the I-130 is approved. This process allows your spouse to adjust their status to that of a permanent resident without having to leave the U.S.
Applying for a spouse visa green card involves several detailed steps, from determining eligibility to dealing with the USCIS and NVC processes, attending a consular interview, and finally, entering the U.S. as a US permanent resident spouse. By following this guide, you can simplify the process and increase your chances of a successful outcome. For personalized assistance and expert legal services, visit Passage Law to ensure a smooth and successful application process.
For the best spouse immigration-related services, visit Passage Law today. Our team of experienced immigration attorneys is ready to help you manage the complexities of the immigration process and reunite with your loved one in the United States.
