Thousands of American citizens marry foreign spouses every year. If you are looking to start a new beginning with your new spouse, you probably want to learn about getting a green card through marriage. One of the most common questions people have is about the length of the procedure.
You cannot automatically become a US citizen after marrying one. However, an authentic marriage certainly makes the procedure easier and faster. To know more about the process or have your queries solved, talk to a lawyer today.
What are some factors that influence a marriage green card timeline?
The average time taken to get a green card through marriage is 11 months to 14 months. Getting a green card depends on three main factors.
- The status of the petitioner, whether they are a US citizen or a Permanent Resident.
- If the beneficiary lives in or outside the US.
- Which service center the applicant sent the application to.
Additionally, the processing time can get affected by Visa number availability, NVC processing time, consulate interviews, etc. Since so many different factors are involved, it is crucial to fill out your application properly. Also, provide accurate documentation to avoid delays and rejections. For example, when asked for original papers, do not attempt to submit photocopies.
Marriage-based green card timeline
There are two conditions. The timeline depends on whether the nonimmigrant is abroad or living in the US. Based on this, you need to follow different steps.
Steps for when a nonimmigrant abroad is married to a US citizen
- First, you need to prove that you have an authentic family outside the US. File the Petition for Alien Relative under the category for reserved family. The spouse already residing in the US will be known as the sponsor and the spouse abroad as the beneficiary. This will kickstart the process.
- After USCIS receives your green card application, they will schedule an interview with the nonimmigrant.
- After 4 to 12 months of applying, the USCIS will schedule an interview with you and your spouse together. They will notify you about it with the date, time, and location.
- The green card should arrive 2-3 weeks after the interview.
Process for nonimmigrants living in the US and married to a US citizen
- The petitioner must submit Form I-130 and Form I-130A.
- The form processing can take anywhere between 9-11 months.
- When your green card application is processed, you will receive a notice for an interview. Both you and your spouse need to attend this.
- Your green card should arrive in the mail after 2-3 weeks.
