How to Get a Green Card Through Marriage in Georgia
Getting a Green Card through marriage is a significant step for many couples in Georgia. It enables foreign spouses of U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents to live and work in the United States permanently. Below are the steps and important information to consider for obtaining a Green Card through marriage in Georgia.
1. Ensure Eligibility
The first step in the process is to ensure that both spouses are eligible. To be eligible for a marriage-based Green Card, you must be legally married to a U.S. citizen or a lawful permanent resident. Additionally, the marriage must be genuine and not solely for immigration purposes.
2. Gather Required Documents
Before applying, collect all necessary documents. Important documents include:
- Proof of U.S. citizenship or permanent residency of the sponsoring spouse (e.g., birth certificate, passport, green card).
- Marriage certificate showing that the marriage is legally valid.
- Evidence of a bona fide marriage, which may include joint bank account statements, lease agreements, photographs together, and affidavits from friends and family.
- Government-issued identification for both spouses.
3. File Form I-130
The U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident spouse must file Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative. This form establishes that the relationship is genuine and legally recognized. Along with Form I-130, you will need to submit supporting documents and the appropriate filing fee.
4. Wait for Approval
Once Form I-130 is submitted, it will be reviewed by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). If approved, the case will be transferred to the National Visa Center (NVC) if the foreign spouse is outside the U.S. If the spouse is in the U.S., you will move on to the next step.
5. File for Adjustment of Status
If the foreign spouse is already in the U.S., they can file Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status. This process allows the spouse to stay in the U.S. while waiting for Green Card approval. The requirements for this form include proof of lawful entry into the U.S. and various biographical information.
6. Biometrics Appointment
After filing Form I-485, the foreign spouse will receive a notice for a biometrics appointment. This appointment is where fingerprints, photographs, and a signature will be taken for background checks.
7. Attend the Green Card Interview
Both spouses will be called for an interview with a USCIS officer. This interview aims to assess the authenticity of the marriage. Be prepared to answer questions about your relationship, living arrangements, and future plans together. Bring all required documents to the interview as evidence of your genuine marriage.
8. Receive a Decision
After the interview, you will receive a decision on your application. If approved, the foreign spouse will receive a Green Card. In cases where the marriage is less than two years old at the time of approval, the Green Card will be conditional and valid for two years. You will need to file Form I-751 to remove the conditions within 90 days before the card expires.
9. Understanding the Processing Times
The timeline for obtaining a Green Card through marriage can vary based on many factors, including local USCIS office processing times and individual circumstances. Generally, the process can take anywhere from several months to over a year.
10. Seek Legal Advice if Necessary
If you have complexities in your situation or need guidance through the process, consider seeking advice from an immigration attorney familiar with Georgia's immigration laws. They can provide valuable insights and help avoid potential pitfalls in the application process.
By following these steps and ensuring that all documentation is thorough and accurate, couples in Georgia can navigate the path to obtaining a Green Card through marriage successfully.