How to Apply for a Green Card Through Marriage?

By Ergul Celiksoy, Immigration Attorney at CK Law Firm

Applying for a Green Card through marriage is one of the most common pathways for family-based immigration to the United States. If you are married to a U.S. citizen or a Green Card holder, you may qualify for lawful permanent residency. In this guide, we will walk you through the step-by-step process and provide important insights to help you navigate the system efficiently. Let’s talk about the questions I will address in this article:

• How to Obtain a Green Card Through Family?
• When Will You Receive Your Green Card After Marriage?
• Can a Spouse Benefit from a Green Card?
• How Much Does a Green Card Application Cost in 2025?
• Applying for a Green Card While in the U.S.

If you are planning to get a Green Card but don’t know how to apply, you can contact us on our website or in the comments section of our blog. You can also send me a message on LinkedIn for private communication.

How to Obtain a Green Card Through Family?

If your spouse is a U.S. citizen or a Green Card holder, they can sponsor your application to become a lawful permanent resident. Here are the steps involved in the process:

• Filing Form I-130 (Petition for Alien Relative): Your U.S. citizen or Green Card holder spouse must file this form with the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). This step establishes the legitimacy of your marriage. Supporting documents, such as your marriage certificate, joint financial records, and photos, should be included.
• Filing Form I-485 (Adjustment of Status): If you are in the United States on a valid visa, you may file Form I-485 to adjust your status to permanent residency. This form is often used for those already legally residing in the U.S. Temporary work and travel authorization can also be granted during this process.
• Providing Supporting Evidence: USCIS requires proof that your marriage is genuine. This can include joint tax returns, shared lease agreements, photos from your wedding, and letters from family and friends attesting to your relationship.
• Attending the Marriage-Based Green Card Interview: Both you and your spouse will be required to attend an interview with a USCIS officer. The officer will ask questions to verify the authenticity of your relationship. Be prepared to discuss your shared life and provide additional documentation if requested.
• USCIS Decision: After reviewing your application, evidence, and interview results, USCIS will determine whether to approve your Green Card application. If approved, you will receive your Green Card and become a lawful permanent resident.

When Will You Receive Your Green Card After Marriage?

The timeline for obtaining a marriage-based Green Card varies depending on your spouse’s status and your location. Typically:

• If your spouse is a U.S. citizen: The process takes approximately 10-13 months.
• If your spouse is a Green Card holder: The waiting period may extend to 2-3 years due to visa quotas.

Processing times also depend on the USCIS service center handling your case. Providing accurate and complete documentation can help avoid unnecessary delays.

Can a Spouse Benefit from a Green Card?

Yes, spouses of Green Card holders can apply for a Green Card under the F2A visa category. This category is specifically reserved for spouses and unmarried children of permanent residents. However, the application may take longer due to annual visa caps.

If your spouse is a U.S. citizen, your application is not subject to these limits, and the process is usually faster.

How Much Does a Green Card Application Cost in 2025?

The cost of applying for a marriage-based Green Card includes the following fees (as of 2025):

• Form I-130 (Petition for Foreign Relative): $625 (online filing) or $675 (paper filing). This form is filled out for a US citizen or Green Card holder to bring their spouse to the United States. The online application offers a faster and easier method, while the paper application is a traditional option. Processing and finalization of the application takes place within the timeframes set by USCIS.
• Form I-485 (Application for Adjustment of Status): $1,440 (including fingerprint processing fee). This form is completed if the applicant is lawfully present in the US.
• Form I-765 (Application for Work Authorization): $260. This fee is charged to provide the applicant with temporary work authorization. This voluntary application is usually preferred by individuals who are in the process of changing status. The work permit allows the applicant to work legally until the Green Card process is finalized.
• Medical Examination Fees: $300-$500 (varies by provider)

Additional costs may include:

• Attorney Fees: $2,000-$5,000, depending on the complexity of your case.
• Translation and Certification Fees: $100-$300
• Travel Expenses: Costs for attending interviews or medical appointments.

It is essential to check the most recent fee schedule on the USCIS website to ensure accurate budgeting.

Applying for a Green Card While in the U.S.

If you are legally residing in the U.S. on a visa (e.g., tourist or student visa), you can adjust your status after marriage to a U.S. citizen. Key points to consider:

• Avoid visa overstays or unauthorized employment, as these can complicate your application.
• Submit complete and accurate documentation to minimize processing delays.
• You may be eligible for temporary work authorization while your application is pending.

Marriage After Receiving a Green Card

If you marry after obtaining a Green Card, you can sponsor your spouse for immigration to the U.S. through the F2A category. However, this process may take longer due to visa quotas. It is crucial to provide substantial evidence of your relationship, such as shared finances, photos, and correspondence, to demonstrate the marriage’s authenticity.

Green Card application through marriage can be completed successfully by paying attention to the correct documents and details. You can always contact us via our website for assistance in this process. You can also contact me on LinkedIn for your specific questions.