It takes persistence and patience to obtain a marriage green card. From submitting the first petition to going through interviews and waiting for clearance, the process can take a few months to more than a year. For couples starting this critical legal path to U.S. residency, it is essential to comprehend the requirements and timetable.
Wait Time for Couples Living Within the United States
For couples residing in the United States, the wait time for a marriage green card typically involves several steps. The process could take ten to fourteen months after filing Form I-130 (Petition for Alien Relative) and Form I-485 (Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status). Background checks, interview scheduling, and USCIS processing times can all cause delays. Monitoring developments and reacting quickly to any requests from USCIS is critical to speed up the process.
Wait Time for Couples When the Spouse Lives Outside the United States
The waiting period for a marriage green card is a multi-step procedure when the partner lives outside the US. The spouse who is a citizen of the United States or a permanent resident must first submit Form I-130 to USCIS. Following approval, the case is sent to the National Visa Center (NVC) for additional processing, which includes paying fees, submitting supporting documentation, and setting up an interview at the spouse’s home country’s U.S. embassy or consulate.
The timing fluctuates based on variables like the embassy’s workload, visa availability, and other processing procedures, but it usually ranges from several months to more than one year. To manage the procedure smoothly, remain current on processing timeframes and requirements.
What Is the Average Cost for a Marriage Green Card?
Obtaining a marriage green card involves several costs, including government fees, legal representation, medical examinations, and other miscellaneous expenses. Here’s a breakdown:
Government Fees:
- Form I-130 filing fee: $625
- Form I-485 filing fee: $1,440
- Biometrics fee (if applicable): $85
Legal Representation:
- Attorney fees for assistance with preparing and filing forms and guiding through the process: Costs might vary based on the complexity of the case and the attorney’s experience. Expect to pay from $1,000 to $5,000 or more.
Medical Examinations:
- USCIS requires a medical examination by a designated civil surgeon. The cost varies depending on the physician and location but ranges from $200 to $500.
Miscellaneous Expenses:
- Translation services for documents not in English: The cost depends on the number of records and the complexity of the translation, ranging from $50 to $200 per document.
- Passport-style photographs for each applicant: Approximately $10 to $20 per person.
- Copies, postage, and other incidentals: Variable but generally minimal.
Total Cost Estimate:
- Government fees: $2,065 (assuming no biometrics fee)
- Attorney fees: $1,000 to $5,000
- Medical examinations: $200 to $500 per person
- Miscellaneous expenses: Variable, but budgeting an additional $100 to $300 is advisable.
The total cost of obtaining a marriage green card can range from $3,000 to $7,000 or more, depending on individual circumstances and choices made during the process. Budgeting carefully and consulting with legal professionals is essential to understand all potential expenses.
Marriage Green Card Processing Times: The Bottom Line
It takes perseverance and careful preparation to navigate the marriage green card process’s intricacies. While timelines can vary based on individual circumstances and government processing, couples should anticipate a journey spanning several months to over a year. Staying informed, organized, and proactive is critical to successfully navigating the process and achieving permanent residency in the United States through marriage.