The marriage-based green card process in the U.S. typically involves several steps. First, the U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident spouse files Form I-130 (Petition for Alien Relative) with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Once approved, the foreign spouse may apply for a green card by filing Form I-485 (Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status). Along with the forms, various supporting documents such as marriage certificates, birth certificates, and proof of financial support are required. After filing, the couple may be required to attend an interview with USCIS to demonstrate the validity of their marriage. Upon successful completion of the process, the foreign spouse receives a conditional green card, which can later be converted to a permanent green card after two years of marriage.
For a beneficiary spouse outside the U.S., the marriage-based green card process typically begins with the U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident spouse filing Form I-130 (Petition for Alien Relative) with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Once USCIS approves the petition, it is forwarded to the National Visa Center (NVC), which then notifies the beneficiary spouse to begin the immigrant visa application process. This involves submitting additional documentation, such as a DS-260 form (Application for Immigrant Visa and Alien Registration) and supporting documents, attending a medical examination, and participating in an interview at the U.S. consulate or embassy in their home country. Upon approval, the beneficiary spouse receives an immigrant visa, allowing them to enter the U.S. as a lawful permanent resident. Upon arrival, they receive a conditional green card, which can later be converted to a permanent green card after two years of marriage.
The K-1 fiancé visa process in the U.S. allows a U.S. citizen to bring their foreign fiancé(e) to the United States for the purpose of getting married. The process begins with the U.S. citizen filing Form I-129F (Petition for Alien Fiancé(e)) with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Once USCIS approves the petition, it is sent to the National Visa Center (NVC) and then to the U.S. consulate or embassy in the fiancé(e)’s home country. The fiancé(e) is required to undergo a medical examination and attend an interview at the consulate or embassy. If approved, the fiancé(e) receives a K-1 visa, allowing them to enter the U.S. Once in the U.S., the couple must marry within 90 days. After the marriage, the foreign spouse can apply for adjustment of status to become a lawful permanent resident (green card holder).
The asylum application process in the U.S. involves individuals seeking protection because of persecution or fear of persecution in their home country due to race, religion, nationality, political opinion, or membership in a particular social group. Applicants must file Form I-589 (Application for Asylum and Withholding of Removal) within one year of their arrival in the U.S. or demonstrate exceptional circumstances for filing late. They attend an interview with a USCIS officer to present their case and provide supporting evidence. If the asylum officer does not grant asylum and the applicant is in removal proceedings, they may have a hearing before an immigration judge. If granted asylum, the applicant can live and work in the U.S. and may apply for permanent residence (green card) after one year.
The Removal of Conditions on Green Card application process in the U.S. applies to conditional permanent residents, typically those who obtained their green cards through marriage and were married for less than two years at the time of approval. Form I-751 (Petition to Remove Conditions on Residence) must be filed jointly by the conditional resident and their spouse within the 90-day period before the expiration of the green card. If the marriage ends in divorce or the spouse refuses to sign the petition, the conditional resident can apply for a waiver of the joint filing requirement. The application includes evidence of the bona fides of the marriage and may require an interview with USCIS. Upon approval, the conditional status is removed, and the individual receives a 10-year permanent green card.
The Green Card through VAWA (Violence Against Women Act) application process in the U.S. allows certain abused spouses, children, and parents of U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents to self-petition for lawful status without the abuser’s knowledge. Eligible applicants file Form I-360 (Petition for Amerasian, Widow(er), or Special Immigrant) with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), along with evidence demonstrating the abusive relationship and its impact. USCIS reviews the petition and may request additional evidence or schedule an interview. If approved, the applicant may apply for lawful permanent residence (green card) and work authorization. VAWA aims to provide protection and immigration relief to victims of domestic violence, regardless of gender.