Spouse Visa Process & Requirements
The marriage green card process involves multiple steps with USCIS and the U.S. Embassy. Here's everything you need to know about bringing your spouse to the United States.
Two Pathways to a Marriage Green Card
The process depends on whether your spouse is outside or inside the United States.
Consular Processing
For spouses living outside the United States
- • File I-130 with USCIS
- • Wait for USCIS approval
- • Case sent to National Visa Center
- • Complete DS-260 immigrant visa application
- • Attend embassy interview
- • Enter U.S. as permanent resident
Processing times vary. Contact us for assessment.
Adjustment of Status
For spouses already in the United States legally
- • File I-130 and I-485 concurrently
- • Submit biometrics at USCIS office
- • Apply for work permit (I-765) and travel permit (I-131)
- • Attend USCIS marriage interview
- • Receive green card approval
- • No need to leave the U.S.
Processing times vary. Contact us for assessment.
Consular Processing Steps
For spouses outside the U.S., here are the steps in the process. Processing times vary—schedule a consultation for a realistic assessment.
File Form I-130 with USCIS
The U.S. citizen or permanent resident petitioner files Form I-130 (Petition for Alien Relative) with supporting documents proving the marriage is genuine.
USCIS Processing
USCIS reviews the petition and verifies the marriage. They may request additional evidence (RFE). Once approved, the case moves to the National Visa Center.
National Visa Center (NVC)
Pay visa fees, submit Form DS-260 and supporting documents. NVC reviews everything and schedules the embassy interview.
Medical Exam & Interview Prep
Your spouse completes the medical examination with an approved physician and gathers all original documents for the interview.
Embassy Interview
Your spouse attends the interview at the U.S. Embassy. If approved, the immigrant visa is issued and your spouse can travel to the U.S.
Entry as Permanent Resident
Duration: Within 6 months of visa
Your spouse enters the U.S. as a permanent resident and receives their green card by mail within a few weeks.
Required Documents
Proper documentation is essential for a successful spouse visa petition.
Identity & Relationship Documents
- □Marriage certificate (original + certified translation)
- □Proof of U.S. citizenship/LPR status
- □Passport-style photos (both spouses)
- □Birth certificates
- □Divorce/death certificates (if previously married)
Evidence of Bona Fide Marriage
- □Joint bank account statements
- □Joint lease or property ownership
- □Joint insurance policies
- □Photos together (wedding, trips, family events)
- □Communication records (if applicable)
- □Affidavits from friends/family
Financial Documents
- □Form I-864 Affidavit of Support
- □Tax returns (3 years)
- □W-2s or 1099s
- □Recent pay stubs
- □Employment verification letter
For Embassy Interview
- □Valid passport
- □DS-260 confirmation page
- □Medical exam results (sealed envelope)
- □Police clearance certificates
- □All original documents listed above
Spouse Visa Costs
Budget for these government fees plus legal representation.
Consular Processing
Adjustment of Status (in U.S.)
Marriage Interview Tips
The interview is where you prove your marriage is genuine.
Know Your Story
Be prepared to explain how you met, your first date, who proposed, wedding details, and your daily life together.
Bring Strong Evidence
Photos, joint accounts, leases, and other documents showing you share a life together are essential.
Be Honest
Never lie. If you don't know something, say so. Inconsistencies between spouses raise red flags.
Stay Calm
Nervousness is normal, but try to relax. Answer questions directly and don't over-explain.
Need Help With Your Spouse Visa?
Our experienced attorneys guide you through every step of the marriage green card process.