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How to Get a Marriage-Based Green Card
(2025 Guide)

blog-author David A. Keller, Esq.

Posted on May 20, 2025 – Keller Law Group, LLC

If you’re married to a U.S. citizen or a lawful permanent resident (green card holder), you may be eligible for permanent residence in the United States. A marriage green card allows you to live and work in the U.S. and eventually apply for citizenship. But the process can be complex. This step-by-step guide breaks it down.

Step 1: Confirm Your Eligibility

To qualify for a marriage-based green card, you must meet the following conditions:

You are legally married to a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident.
Your marriage is bona fide, meaning it wasn’t entered into solely for immigration benefits.
You are not inadmissible due to prior immigration violations, criminal history, or other grounds

Step 2: File Form I-130 (Petition for Alien Relative)

The U.S. citizen or permanent resident spouse must initiate the process by filing Form I-130 with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). This form proves that the marriage is valid.

What You'll Need:

A completed Form I-130 and Form I-130A (for the foreign spouse)
A copy of your marriage certificate
Proof of the sponsoring spouse’s U.S. citizenship or green card
Evidence of a bona fide marriage (joint lease, photos, joint bank accounts, tax returns)
Filing fee: $675 (as of 2025)

Processing Time:

Approx. 12–16 months, depending on USCIS backlogs and service center location.

Step 3: Apply for the Green Card

The process now splits depending on where the foreign spouse is currently residing.

If You’re Inside the U.S. (Adjustment of Status)

File Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status.

Documents Required:

Form I-485
Form I-864 (Affidavit of Support)
Form I-693 (Medical Exam Report)
Proof of lawful entry (I-94, visa stamp)
Two passport-style photos
Fee: $1,440 (as of 2025, includes biometrics)

Timeline: Approx. 8–12 months

If You’re Outside the U.S. (Consular Processing)

Once the I-130 is approved, the case is forwarded to the National Visa Center (NVC), then the U.S. embassy or consulate in your country.

Steps:

Submit Form DS-260 (Immigrant Visa Application)
Upload civil documents (birth certificate, police certificates)
Complete the medical exam
Attend visa interview at your local U.S. consulate

Fees:

DS-260: $325
Affidavit of Support review: $120
Medical Exam: $150–$600 (varies by country)

Timeline: Approx. 14–18 months

Step 4: The Marriage Green Card Interview

An in-person interview is required to assess the genuineness of the marriage.

Common Questions:

How did you meet?
When and where was your wedding?
What are your daily routines as a couple?
Where do you live?
Who handles bills, groceries, etc.?

Pro tip: Be honest and prepared. Inconsistent answers can delay or jeopardize your case.

Step 5: Get Your Green Card

After a successful interview, you’ll receive:

A Conditional Green Card (valid for 2 years) if your marriage is less than 2 years old.
A Permanent Green Card (valid for 10 years) if your marriage is more than 2 years old.

Removing Conditions

If you receive a 2-year conditional green card, you must file Form I-751 within the 90 days before it expires to get a 10-year card.

Step 6: Apply for U.S. Citizenship (Optional)

After holding a green card for 3 years (and remaining married to a U.S. citizen), you may apply for naturalization using Form N-400

Eligibility:

Must have lived in marital union for the 3 years
Must meet physical presence, English, and civics test requirements

Summary of Costs (as of 2025)

Stage	Fee
Form I-130	$675
Form I-485 (Adjustment of Status)	$1,440
DS-260 (Consular Processing)	$325
Affidavit of Support (I-864 review)	$120
Medical Exam	$150–$600
Form I-751 (Remove Conditions)	$750
Form N-400 (Naturalization)	$760

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Submitting incomplete or incorrect forms
Failing to include strong proof of relationship
Missing your interview or rescheduling without proper notice
Not updating your address with USCIS
Ignoring conditional green card renewal deadlines

Final Thoughts

Marriage-based green cards are among the most common ways to gain U.S. permanent residency—but they’re not always simple. Working with an experienced immigration attorney can make the difference between approval and delay or denial.

Need Help with Your Marriage-Based Green Card?

Keller Law Group LLC has helped countless couples successfully navigate the green card process. Whether you're applying from inside the U.S. or abroad, our team knows how to handle the paperwork, prepare you for interviews, and avoid common mistakes.

Book a consultation today!

Contact Keller Law Group LLC
Email: hello@kellerimmigration.com
Phone: +1 857 810 8040
Website: www.kellerimmigration.com

About Keller Law Group, LLC

Keller Law Group, LLC specializes in immigration law, criminal defense, and personal injury cases. With a commitment to excellence and personalized service, we are here to guide you through every step of the legal process. Visit www.kellerimmigration.com to learn more

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How to Get a Marriage-Based Green Card
(2025 Guide)

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© 2025 — Copyright

How to Get a Marriage-Based Green Card (2025 Guide)

We’re Here to Help

© 2025 — Copyright

How to Get a Marriage-Based Green Card
(2025 Guide)