Marriage-Based Green Card: Step-by-Step Guide for 2025
- Таня В
- Dec 7
- 3 min read
Getting a Marriage-Based Green Card is one of the most popular paths to becoming a permanent resident of the United States. If you’re married to a U.S. citizen or green card holder, you're likely eligible—but the process can be confusing at first.
This complete 2025 guide will walk you through every step of applying for a Marriage-Based Green Card, including what forms to file, what documents to include, how much it costs, and how to avoid delays.
Let’s break it all down — clearly and simply.
What Is a Marriage-Based Green Card?
A Marriage-Based Green Card allows a foreign spouse of a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident to live and work in the U.S. permanently.
The process starts by proving that your marriage is genuine, followed by submitting specific forms, attending biometrics and interviews, and waiting for USCIS approval.
Step 1: Decide Where You’re Applying From
Your location determines your path:
If you're in the U.S.
You’ll apply through Adjustment of Status via USCIS.
If you're outside the U.S.
You’ll apply through Consular Processing, working with the National Visa Center (NVC) and a U.S. Embassy or Consulate.
Pro tip: If you’re married to a U.S. citizen, your case is typically faster than if your spouse holds a green card.
Step 2: Collect Required Forms for a Marriage-Based Green Card
Most marriage-based green card applications include:
Form I-130 – Petition to prove the marriage
Form I-130A – Biographic info for the foreign spouse
Form I-485 – Adjustment of Status (if applying from the U.S.)
Form I-864 – Affidavit of Support
Form I-693 – Medical exam results
Form I-765 – Work permit (optional)
Form I-131 – Travel document (optional)
Make sure all forms are current, signed, and fully completed. USCIS rejects incomplete or outdated applications.
Step 3: Gather Evidence of a Real Marriage
To get a Marriage-Based Green Card, you must prove that your marriage is real—not just for immigration purposes.
Suggested Evidence:
Joint lease/mortgage or utility bills
Shared bank accounts or credit cards
Photos together (travel, holidays, family)
Life insurance or health insurance documents
Text messages or emails
Travel itineraries
Wedding certificate
Organize your documents by category and include a cover letter explaining your evidence.
Step 4: Pay Government Fees
2025 USCIS Fees (Estimated):
Marriage-Based Green Card (within U.S.): ~$1,760
Form I-130 only (for consular processing): $675
Medical Exam (I-693): $200–$600 (paid to the doctor)
Step 5: Attend Your Appointments
After submission, you’ll receive a Notice of Action (NOA1). Next, you’ll:
Go to your Biometrics Appointment
Your photo, signature, and fingerprints will be collected.
Attend Your Green Card Interview
You’ll meet with a USCIS officer (or embassy official if abroad), who will ask about your marriage and shared life.
Sample Interview Questions:
Where did you meet?
Who does the cooking?
What's your spouse’s birthday?
What did you do last weekend?
What’s your address?
Stay calm and honest—officers are trained to spot fake marriages, but also understand real ones aren’t perfect.
Step 6: Get Your Green Card
Once approved, you’ll receive a Conditional Marriage-Based Green Card (valid for 2 years) if your marriage is under two years old.
After 2 years, file Form I-751 to remove conditions and get your 10-year green card.
What Happens After That?
With your green card, you can:
Live and work anywhere in the U.S.
Travel in and out of the U.S.
Apply for U.S. citizenship after 3 years (if still married to a U.S. citizen)
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Missing signatures
Incorrect or outdated forms
Poor organization of evidence
Weak marriage proof
Forgetting to update your address (use Form AR-11!)
Should You File On Your Own?
You can apply without an attorney, but if:
You’re unsure what forms to use
Your case involves past visa overstays or rejections
You want to save time and avoid mistakes
…it might be worth hiring a green card professional or document prep service.
Final Checklist: Marriage-Based Green Card Application
Determine your application type (U.S. or abroad)
Gather required USCIS forms
Collect strong marriage evidence
Pay the correct government fees
Prepare for your interview
Track your case and respond to requests
Ready to Start?
Need help preparing your Marriage-Based Green Card application the right way?
I can help you:
Choose the right forms
Review your evidence
Prepare a clean, well-organized package
Avoid common errors
Get peace of mind
Or send me a message to get started today!
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