Secure Your Future in the U.S. with a Marriage Green Card
Are you looking to get a green card through marriage?
Expert legal guidance through every step of your Adjustment of Status (I-130 & I-485) journey. Let Marcano Legal help you build your life together in the United States.
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Schedule a consultation today to discuss your Adjustment of Status application options with an experienced immigration lawyer.
Understanding Adjustment of Status Through Marriage:
Adjustment of status lets you apply for a green card without leaving the U.S. If you’re married to a U.S. citizen or green card holder, you might be able to use this process to get your own green card. This is often called “status adjustment through marriage” or getting a “marriage green card.”
What is a Marriage-Based Green Card?
A marriage-based green card is a type of permanent resident card that you can get if you’re married to a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident. It gives you the right to live and work in the United States permanently.
Key Steps in the I-130 I-485 Process:
The process to adjust your status and get a green card through marriage involves several steps:
- File Form I-130 (Petition for Alien Relative) for your foreign spouse
- File Form I-485 (Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status)
- Go to a biometrics appointment
- Complete a medical exam
- Attend a green card interview
- Get a decision on your application
Our team at Marcano Legal will help you with each of these steps to support your application is done correctly.
Filing Form I-130
Form I-130 is the first step in the process. It’s also known as the Petition for Alien Relative. This form proves that you have a valid marriage to a U.S. citizen or green card holder.
Filing Form I-485
Form I-485 is the Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status. This is the form you file to actually request your green card. You might be able to file this at the same time as your I-130, which can speed up the process.
Eligibility for Adjustment of Status Through Marriage:
To adjust status based on marriage, you usually need to:
- Be married to a U.S. citizen or green card holder
- Have entered the U.S. legally (with some exceptions)
- Be in lawful status (with some exceptions for immediate relatives of U.S. citizens)
- Meet other USCIS requirements
We can help you figure out if you’re eligible and deal with any issues that might come up.
Contact our law firm today to start building your Adjustment of Status Strategy.
Getting a green card through marriage is a big step. At Marcano Legal, we’re here to make the process easier for you.
Marriage to a U.S. Citizen vs. Green Card Holder:
The process can be different depending on whether your spouse is a U.S. citizen or a green card holder:
- If your spouse is a U.S. citizen, you’re considered an immediate relative. This means you can apply for adjustment of status right away, if you’re eligible.
- If your spouse is a green card holder, you might have to wait for a visa to become available before you can adjust status.
Benefits of Filing I-130 and I-485 Together:
For many couples, it’s possible to file both forms at the same time. This is called concurrent filing. It can:
- Make the process faster overall
- Let you apply for work and travel permits sooner
- Simplify the process with fewer separate filings
We can help you decide if filing both forms together is the best choice for you.
Frequently Asked Questions About Adjustment of Status
Some immediate relatives of U.S. citizens can, but it’s best to talk to a lawyer about these cases.
It usually takes 8-14 months from filing to decision, but times can vary.
You can apply for a work permit when you file for adjustment of status.
Usually, yes. You and your spouse will likely need to go to an interview with USCIS.
If you’ve been married less than 2 years when your green card is approved, you’ll get a conditional green card valid for 2 years. You’ll need to file to remove the conditions before it expires.
Common Challenges in Adjustment of Status:
Some people face challenges when adjusting status through marriage:
- Proving your marriage is real
- Dealing with past immigration issues
- Handling complex paperwork
- Getting ready for the green card interview
Proving the Legitimacy of Your Marriage
USCIS wants to make sure your marriage is real and not just for immigration benefits. You’ll need to provide evidence like:
- Joint bank accounts
- Shared insurance policies
- Photos together
- Proof that you live together
We can help you gather the right evidence to prove your marriage is genuine.
The Green Card Interview Process:
Most couples will need to attend an interview with USCIS as part of the marriage-based green card process. Here’s what to expect:
- You and your spouse will be interviewed together
- The officer will ask questions about your relationship and marriage
- You’ll need to bring original documents and copies
- The interview usually lasts about 30 minutes
We’ll help you prepare for your interview so you feel confident and ready.
Why Choose Marcano Legal for Your Green Card Case?
Navigating immigration law can be tricky. Here’s why clients choose us:
- We have proven experience with marriage-based green cards
- We give personal attention to your unique situation
- We help gather and prepare all your documents
- We get you ready for your green card interview
- We keep you updated on your case
We’re committed to helping you get your green card through marriage.
Virtual Consultation for Adjustment of Status
Contact us today to set up a virtual meeting and learn how we can help with your marriage-based green card application.
Disclaimer: This website contains general information for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. No attorney-client relationship is formed until a formal agreement is signed. Past results do not predict future outcomes. Each case depends on its specific facts and circumstances.