Green Card by Marriage to a U.S. Citizen
After an immigrant marries a U.S. citizen, the couple can begin the formal process for obtaining a Green Card by marriage.
There is a LOT to do and a LOT of documentation to provide. You will need to file:
1) Petition for Alien Relative
2) Affidavit of Support
3) Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status
4) Obtain a Medical Report from a Certified Civil Surgeon
5) Employment Authorization
6) Biographic information for both spouses, along with supporting documentation.
What to file as “supporting documentation” is probably what many don’t realize they need to include with their Green Card packet.
Most people are surprised at things that should be submitted, some of which they never thought about. This is a common problem with many petitions, applications, and other documents that need to be submitted.
If you don’t submit the right documents, at the right time, your Green Card can be denied!
Then you will have to refile and pay another filing fee. The result is you will have to wait longer to get the Green Card.
Not having an immigration lawyer can get very expensive, very quickly!
For the best outcome, discuss your plans with an immigration lawyer BEFORE you get married.
Why?
Because the very timing of your marriage can give you serious problems later on, which may prevent your spouse from getting a Green Card, and even Citizenship. It is best to consult an attorney early on in the process.
Your immigration lawyer will ensure you have the best chance of getting your Green Card.
A Green Card through marriage to a U.S. Citizen is NOT an automatic or guaranteed right. United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) can deny your Green Card for many reasons.
A Green Card through marriage to a U.S. citizen may be the quickest and easiest way to get a Green Card, but the marriage must be legal and legitimate. You can show your marriage is legal with the additional documentation submitted with your packet.
Your immigration attorney will guide you through all the things that need to be completed and ensure they are completed properly in order for your spouse to get a Green Card.