You Married a U.S. Citizen and Want a Green Card. What Happens Next?
If you recently married a U.S. citizen and want to live and work in the United States, the next step is applying for a green card, also known as lawful permanent residency. As the spouse of a U.S. citizen, you are considered an immediate relative under Immigration and Nationality Act § 201(b)(2)(A)(i), which makes you eligible to apply for this status.
There are two main ways to obtain a green card through marriage:
Adjustment of Status (for applicants already living in the U.S.)
Consular Processing (for applicants living abroad)
For both processes, you must establish that your marriage is bona fide, or a “real, authentic” marriage.
Establishing a Qualifying Relationship
To prove your marriage is legitimate, you must file Form I-130 (Petition for Alien Relative) and Form I-130A (Supplemental Information for a Spouse Beneficiary). These forms confirm your relationship and provide evidence that your marriage is real, not solely for immigration benefits.
When submitting your petition, you are required to provide:
Proof of your spouse’s U.S. citizenship (such as a birth certificate or passport);
Your marriage certificate;
Two-passport style photos (if applicable);
Proof of name change (if applicable); and,
Evidence that your relationship is genuine.
Examples of relationship evidence could include but is not limited to:
Proof of living together, like a shared lease or utility bills
Joint financial records, such as tax returns, bank statements, or insurance policies
Travel records or photos showing time spent together and with family or friends
Written statements from family or friends who can vouch for your relationship
It’s best to include as much documentation as possible when submitting your petition. You can also bring additional evidence to your interview.
Adjustment of Status or Consular Processing
If you are already in the U.S., you can apply for Adjustment of Status by submitting Form I-485 (Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status) at the same time as your I-130 petition. You may also apply for temporary work authorization and advanced parole to travel while your application is pending.
USCIS will review your application and may request additional evidence. You will be scheduled for a biometrics appointment and later an interview at your local USCIS office. During the interview, the officer will ask questions about your relationship and background. If approved, you will receive your green card by mail.
Consular Processing
If you live outside of the United States, you will complete Consular Processing. After USCIS approves your I-130 petition, your case will be transferred to the National Visa Center (NVC), which will request additional forms, fees, and documents. Once complete, your care will be sent to your local U.S. embassy or consulate, where you will attend an interview.
At the interview, you can submit more relationship evidence and answer background questions. If approved, the consulate will issue your immigrant visa, which allows you to enter the United States. After arrival, you will receive your green card by mail.
Additional Requirements
During your green card process, you will need to:
Submit proof that your U.S. citizen spouse meets the income requirement of a least 125% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines (100% if your spouse is active-duty military). If not, a joint sponsor can file Form I-864 (Affidavit of Support).
Provide a medical examination from a USCIS-approved doctor or a doctor approved by your local consulate.
Determine if you are required to submit any other documentation such as military records, criminal records, or police certificates for places you have lived longer than 6 months.
How Long Will My Green Card be Valid?
If you have been married for less than two years at the time of approval, USCIS will issue a conditional green card valid for two years. Before it expires, you must file Form I-751 (Petition to Remove Conditions on Residence) to prove your marriage is still genuine.
If you have been married for more than two years, you will receive a 10-year green card with no conditions.
Path to Citizenship
Once you become a lawful permanent resident, you can apply for U.S. citizenship after three years (as opposed to five years for all other green card holders).
Should You Hire an Immigration Attorney?
Marriage-based green card cases may sound simple, but every case has unique factors that can affect the outcome. The right legal strategy depends on your current immigration status, travel history, and long-term goals.
An experienced immigration attorney can help you:
Choose the right process for your situation
Prepare strong evidence to prove your marriage is genuine
Avoid delays or denials due to technical errors
Attend your USCIS interview for added support and representation
Ready to Take the Next Steps?
Applying for a marriage-based green card is one of the most personal and important immigration steps you can take. Having the right legal guidance can make the process smoother, faster, and less stressful.
At Elevate Justice U.S. Immigration Law, we help couples across the world navigate the marriage-based green card process with care, precision, and proven experience. Whether you’re applying from within the U.S. or abroad, our team will walk you through every step and protect your path to permanent residency.
Contact Elevate Justice U.S. Immigration Law today to learn more or set up a consultation.
