Time to obtain American Residency Through Marriage

If you’ve been searching for a role where your creativity is valued, your voice is heard, and your work genuinely makes an impact, this might be the opportunity you’ve been waiting for.

We’re looking for someone who doesn’t just write content but tells stories stories that connect, inspire, and help brands build lasting relationships with their audiences.

Average Marriage-Based Green Card Timelines:

Spouse’s Status	Applicant’s Location	Average Wait Time
U.S. Citizen	Inside the U.S.	8–14 months
U.S. Citizen	Outside the U.S.	14–20 months
Green Card Holder	Inside the U.S.	30–36 months
Green Card Holder	Outside the U.S.	32–36 months

Note: These are averages. Processing times vary by service center, embassy, and individual case circumstances. Always confirm the latest updates through the USCIS Processing Times Tool and the Visa Bulletin.

Marriage-Based Green Card Processing Time:

If you’re applying for a marriage-based green card, processing times can vary depending on whether you are applying from within the US or abroad. On average, USCIS processing for a spouse of a US citizen takes about 10–13 months, but it can extend depending on case complexity and local office workload.

US Residency Through Spousal Sponsorship:

Obtaining US residency through spousal sponsorship allows foreign spouses of US citizens or permanent residents to live and work legally in the United States. This pathway includes submitting petitions, attending interviews, and meeting eligibility requirements.

Steps to Get US Permanent Residency After Marriage:

The steps to get US permanent residency after marriage typically include:

• Filing Form I-130 (Petition for Alien Relative)
• Submitting Form I-485 (Adjustment of Status) if in the US, or attending consular processing abroad
• Attending a biometrics appointment
• Participating in the marriage green card interview
• Receiving the green card approval

Timeline for Marriage Green Card Approval:

The timeline for marriage green card approval depends on multiple factors, including whether you are applying from inside or outside the US. On average:

• Adjustment of status in the US: 10–13 months
• Consular processing abroad: 12–18 months

Marriage Visa to US Permanent Residency:

A marriage visa to US permanent residency is granted to spouses of US citizens or green card holders. Conditional residency may be issued for marriages less than two years old, which is later removed through a joint petition to secure permanent status.

Duration of Obtaining US Residency via Marriage:

The duration of obtaining US residency via marriage depends on processing times and document readiness. Most applicants receive their green card within 12–18 months from the date of filing.

K-1 Visa to Green Card Processing Time:

If you enter the US on a K-1 fiancé visa, you must marry within 90 days and then file for adjustment of status. The K-1 visa to green card processing time typically takes 10–12 months.

Spouse Visa US Processing Times:

Spouse visa US processing times vary based on the applicant’s location, USCIS workload, and completeness of documentation. Current averages range from 10 months to over 18 months.

US Immigration Marriage Process:

The US immigration marriage process involves petitioning for a spouse, submitting evidence of a genuine marriage, completing biometrics, attending an interview, and receiving approval. Each step requires careful documentation to ensure smooth processing.

Green Card for Foreign Spouse:

A green card for a foreign spouse grants permanent residency, allowing the spouse to live and work in the US. Conditional green cards are issued for marriages under two years and must later be converted to permanent status.

Conditional Residency US:

Conditional residency in the US applies to spouses married for less than two years at the time of green card approval. To remove the conditions, couples must file Form I-751 jointly before the card expires.

Adjustment of Status Timeline:

The adjustment of status timeline generally takes 10–13 months for most applicants residing in the US. This includes the petition, biometrics, and interview stages.

Marriage-Based Immigration FAQs:

Common questions include:

• How long does a spouse visa take?
• Can I work while my green card is pending?
• What happens if the marriage is less than two years old?
• How long before I can apply for US citizenship?

USCIS Processing Times for Spousal Green Card:

USCIS processing times for spousal green card can fluctuate depending on field office and case volume. Checking the USCIS website regularly helps track current expected durations.

Interview for Marriage Green Card:

The interview for a marriage green card evaluates the authenticity of the marriage. Couples are asked about their relationship, shared life, and future plans. Proper preparation and documentation are key to approval.

Pending Spouse Visa Duration:

While your spouse visa is pending, you may remain in the US (if applying through adjustment of status) or wait abroad (if consular processing). Processing times vary, but most cases are resolved within 12–18 months.

US Citizenship Eligibility After Marriage:

After obtaining a green card through marriage, spouses of US citizens can apply for US citizenship after three years of permanent residency, provided they have maintained continuous residence and meet other eligibility requirements.

Step-by-Step Timeline:

Step 1: Filing Form I-130 (Petition for Alien Relative)

This form establishes your marriage relationship.

• Average processing time: 12–14 months
• Key factors affecting timing: USCIS workload, service center location, and whether USCIS issues a Request for Evidence (RFE).
• Tip: Submit strong supporting documents (marriage certificate, joint financials, photos together, affidavits) to reduce the risk of delays.

Step 2: Adjustment of Status (Form I-485) or Consular Processing

If you live in the U.S. and are married to a U.S. citizen

• You can file Form I-485 (Adjustment of Status) at the same time as I-130.
• Estimated total time: 8–14 months

If you live in the U.S. and your spouse is a green card holder

• You must wait until a visa number becomes available before filing Form I-485.
• Estimated total time: 30–36 months

If you live abroad

• After I-130 approval, your case moves to the National Visa Center (NVC), then to your local embassy or consulate for an interview.
• Estimated total time: 14–20 months (if married to a U.S. citizen) and 32–36 months (if married to a green card holder).
• Consular backlogs and local embassy conditions can add more time.

Check Also: Re-Entry Permits for Green Card Holders – Guide for Residency

Why Timelines Differ:

• Spouse’s status: Immediate relatives of U.S. citizens are prioritized over relatives of green card holders.
• Visa availability: The F2A category (spouses of green card holders) often has backlogs.
• Location: Applicants abroad depend on NVC and consulate schedules, which vary.
• Case complexity: Missing documents, RFEs, or background checks can slow approval.

Key Takeaways:

• Fastest cases: 8–14 months (U.S. citizen spouse, applicant inside the U.S.)
• Longest cases: 30–36 months (green card holder spouse, applicant inside or outside the U.S.)
• Timelines depend heavily on backlog, visa availability, and case completeness.
• Always check USCIS and Visa Bulletin updates, as processing times can shift month by month.

Conclusion:

This role offers competitive pay, flexibility to work remotely, and the chance to grow your career in content marketing. With supportive teammates and meaningful projects, you’ll create work that truly connects with people. If you’re ready to bring creativity and passion to a team that values both, we’d love to hear from you.

Frequently Asked Questions: