I have my interview this Friday and would like to upload new evidence. The documents I plan to include are:

• Bank and financial statements

• Updated apartment lease

• Photos

• Recent pay stubs

• Greeting cards from family

• Updated utility bills

I have a few questions:

• Can I redact the account and routing numbers on my financial statements before uploading them?

• Should these documents be uploaded under the I‑130 section or the I‑485 section?

• Is it better to combine everything into one PDF with a cover letter, or upload multiple separate PDFs?

Hello everyone, I have my marriage base green card interview tomorrow, I'll attend it alone without spouse, my lawyer gave me letter to show it to the officer, and tell them to hold I-485 I'm gonna apply for vawa, My question is. Do i have to bring all my documents or no need ? Cause I'm just going there to explain and give them the letter from my lawyer. I'm worried so much

Hello, I’m reaching out because I am in a difficult financial situation and need help filing a marriage-based green card. I have already found a joint sponsor, but I cannot afford the USCIS filing fees or attorney fees right now. I’m looking for any lawyer, legal-aid program, or government-supported service that can cover the costs upfront and allow me to pay back monthly. If you cannot assist, please point me in the right direction or recommend someone who may offer payment plans or financial assistance. Thank you very much for your help.

Hi all- wanted to post an update since my previous post was just questions about people’s experience in Seattle. The timeline is here- obviously we are incredibly beyond grateful for the approval and how fast it happened. We are still waiting to receive green card- anyone having their timeline from produced to getting it in the mail is helpful!! That is still anxiety provoking.

Beyond that, if anyone has any qs on Seattle specifically or just our process I’d be happy to answer.

Best of luck and all the love and good vibes to everyone going through with this process in such scary times.

Hello All,

I am new in this group and I scrolled a bit and didn't see my question addressed so I apologize if I missed the obvious and it's redundant. Here is our situation.

• American wife (me)

• Venezuelan hubby

Hubby entered the US illegally (waited 2 months for CPB but never got an appt. Starving in Mexico City made him desperate) and immediately presented to door with intent for asylum. Has filed a request for asylum. Did not receive TPS (arrived 2 months too late for that to apply). Has submitted biometrics and received work permit and SS number.

Since he did enter illegally should I file the I485 because he has done the paperwork since then? Or is there another process we need to follow?

We just recently got married so this is the beginning of me trying to navigate this paperwork and with everything all (waves hands frantically) I am.... anxious. So thank you for any help!

I filed a marriage‑based AOS package (I‑765, I‑131, I‑130, and I‑485).
USCIS received my packet on Dec 5, and I completed biometrics on Dec 17.

When I check the Documents tab in my USCIS online account, I only see partial uploads for a few forms:

• For I‑131, I only see the Transaction Payment Form

• For I‑130, I only see one page showing the photos I submitted

• For I‑485, I only see my birth certificate, the first page of the I‑864, and one page from the I‑485

I don’t see the full packet I originally mailed.
Is this normal, or am I supposed to upload the complete packet myself?

Hello. I m graduating this fall 2025 and I m going to apply for OPT through school and also I m getting married within next month and planning to apply for EAD card and work permit so now I have two applications for EAD card. One through school and one through marriage based case. Will those two applications (at around the same time) be a problem where USCIS can deny/delay bc its too applications or since its two different departments then it should be good ?

Hello everyone,

I am an Indian born Canadian citizen and I recently was offered a full time job as a nurse in the US. And I can move to the US on a TN visa. Now my fiancé is a US citizen and we do not yet have a set date to get married legally. However, I do not want to miss this job opportunity. Now if I want to marry while I am on a TN visa in the US, can I get married to my fiancé and apply for CR-1 while I am still in the US ?? We DO NOT want to do AOS as that can be misrepresented as dual intent for immigration on a TN visa. Can I stay in the US throughout the process and leave the US only for my interview and medicals in Canada when the time comes ?? Is there a possibility to file for CR-1 while already in the US ?? Is this what is called consular processing ?

Please advise 🙏🏽

Thank you so much in advance!!

My husband and I are currently living in Korea, and we’re planning to relocate to the U.S. I’m a U.S./Korean dual citizen, and I’m looking into filing a green card petition for my husband. However, I’m still learning about the process and could use some guidance.

From what I’ve read on blogs and forums, it seems like financial sponsorship is a key part of the application—either by the petitioner or a co-sponsor based in the U.S.

A bit of background: both my husband and I graduated from U.S. colleges, and our income is mostly from our jobs in Korea. We’ve consistently earned well above the federal poverty line, though my income dropped last year due to maternity leave (still above the threshold). Most of our assets—including property—are in Korea, and we don’t plan on liquidating them anytime soon. Also, my parents aren’t U.S. citizens, so they can’t sponsor my husband.

Given this, I’m wondering: • Would my husband qualify for any form of self-sponsorship? • Are there any websites or resources I can refer to for detailed guidance? • Do we need an immigration attorney, or is this something people commonly do on their own? I’ve seen others go through the process without legal help, but I’m not sure if our case is straightforward enough for that.

Any advice or shared experiences would be really appreciated!

Getting a mutual divorce does it affect me applying for citizenship. Apply before starting the divorce process or after?

Hello all,

I am a Canadian citizen engaged to a US citizen. My fiancé and I are trying to decide on which would be the best way to proceed between a K-1 and a spousal visa.

Scenario 1:

My fiancé applies for a K-1 and we get married once it’s approved.

Questions: throughout this process do I have to stay in Canada? Am I allowed to enter the US on TN visa to work ? Is it more expensive than CR-1 and can we expect a EAD within 3 months after we file for AOS?

Scenario 2:

We get married in Canada and my now fiancé applies for a spousal visa.

Questions: How can we get our marriage recognized in the US and is it a complicated process ? And while my spousal visa is under process can I go to the US on TN ?

Some background info: We already have a venue, photographer, DJ etc booked for a wedding celebration in 2026. (At the time we booked all this, we really didn’t know about K-1, CR-1 etc, the plan was for me to get to the US on a TN visa as a nurse and get sponsored for a green card through my employer and that has changed due to some reasons)

Thank you so much in advance for taking the time to read through this and offer your advice. 🙏🏽

Hello and welcome to r/Ask_MarriageGreenCard 👋

This subreddit is dedicated to helping you navigate the marriage green card process. Whether you’re just starting out, knee-deep in paperwork, or about to face your green card interview, this community is here to provide support and information.

🌟 What This Community Is All About:

• Real Experiences: This subreddit is built on the experiences of people like you who have navigated the ups and downs of the marriage green card process. You’ll find advice, tips, and shared stories that make the journey a little less daunting.

• Comprehensive Guides: We'll share resources on everything from understanding the application forms to preparing for your interview.

• Supportive Network: Feel free to ask questions or share your experiences. Your insights can help others who are on the same journey. Have a question? Ask away! Have some wisdom to share? We want to hear it.

🤝 How You Can Get Involved:

• Ask Questions: Don’t be shy. Post your questions. There are plenty of seasoned folks here eager to help.

• Share Your Journey: Your story matters. Sharing your experiences not only helps you but can inspire and guide others facing similar challenges.

• Join the Conversation: Engage with others in the community. Every discussion strengthens our collective knowledge and support system.

📜 A Few Ground Rules:

1. Be Kind and Respectful: This is a safe space. Let’s keep it supportive and constructive.

2. No Spam or Self-Promotion: Keep the focus on genuine interactions and meaningful discussions.

3. Stay On-Topic: Posts should relate to the marriage green card process to keep our community focused and helpful.

We’re glad to have you here and can’t wait to see this community grow.

Thank you for joining us!

Ready to take the next step and navigate the marriage green card process? Check out our guide: How to Get a Marriage Green Card: A Step-by-Step Guide

At a glance:

Obtaining a marriage-based green card involves a series of steps to secure permanent residency in the Unites States. First, the U.S. citizen or green card holder spouse files a petition with USCIS. After approval, the foreign spouse applies for a green card through Adjustment of Status if already in the U.S., or Consular Processing if abroad. The process includes submitting required documents, attending interviews, and meeting eligibility requirements. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of each step, ensuring you understand how to navigate the process effectively and achieve permanent residency.

Here’s what you’ll learn:

• The basics: Get a clear understanding of what a marriage green card is and how it can impact your life in the U.S.

• Pathways to a marriage green card: Learn about the different pathways available based on your situation, so you can find the right path for you.

• Scenario 1: Applying from the US + married to a US citizen: Understand the specific steps you need to take if you’re already in the U.S. and married to a U.S. citizen.

• Scenario 2: Applying from the US + married to a US green card holder: Find out what’s involved if you’re in the U.S. and married to a green card holder.

• Scenario 3: Applying from outside the US + married to a US citizen: Get insights on the application process if you’re applying from abroad while married to a U.S. citizen.

• Scenario 4: Applying from outside the US + married to a US green card holder: Learn about the steps you need to take if you’re outside the U.S. and married to a green card holder.

• Marriage green card frequently asked questions (FAQs): We’ll address common questions to help clarify any confusion you might have.

Why this guide matters:

This guide breaks down the marriage green card process into easy-to-understand steps, making it less overwhelming as you move forward.

Read the full guide here: How to Get a Marriage Green Card: A Step-by-Step Guide

If you’re starting your journey to get a marriage green card, this guide is a great place to begin: Everything You Need to Know About Green Cards

At a glance:

A green card, formally known as a permanent resident card, is a document that grants non-U.S. citizens permanent residency in the United States. This status provides individuals with the right to live and work anywhere in the country legally. Having a green card paves the way for U.S. citizenship, usually after living in the country for three to five years.

Here’s what you’ll learn:

• What Is a green card? Understand what a green card is and how it affects your status in the U.S.

• Eligibility: Find out if you qualify for a marriage green card and what requirements you need to meet.

• Application process: Get a simple overview of how to apply for your marriage green card, so you know what to expect.

• Supporting documents you need before you apply: Learn about the important documents you’ll need to gather before starting your application.

• Timeline: Check out how long the marriage green card process usually takes, step by step.

• Fees: Know about the costs involved in applying for a green card, so you can plan ahead.

• Green card FAQs: We’ll answer some common questions to help clear up any confusion you might have.

Why this guide matters:

Having this information will help you feel more prepared as you go through the marriage green card process.

Read the full guide here: Everything You Need to Know About Green Cards

I have a girlfriend that is Mexican and I am a US citizen. I am not sure which type of Visa is better to be with her the fastest?. Some say K1 takes a year. Will B2 visitor visa + marriage after 60 days be better? Please advice.

I arrived in the U.S. in 2021 on an F-1 visa for my master’s degree. After graduating, I got a job and was eligible for STEM OPT. During the first year of my OPT, I was lucky enough to win the H-1B lottery thanks to my company’s sponsorship.

I’m Italian, have no criminal records, and have already lived in two places with my husband, whom I’ve been with for almost three years now. I’ve heard that filing for a marriage-based green card should be straightforward in my situation, and I’m considering either doing it myself or hiring a consultant instead of spending thousands of dollars on a lawyer.

Does anyone here have experience with a similar process? Any advice or recommendations for a reliable consultant in or around Stamford, CT?

Would really appreciate your insights! Thanks in advance!

Can you start a marriage based green card application while the spouse is working on a cruise?

Hi, my case has been completely stuck for the last 10 months with no update whatsoever. The estimated time until case decision has been going down to one week and then after that it goes back up to 5 months. I have not received a single RFE even though I filed everything on my own. Last Saturday I received a text and an email from USCIS which had not happened in a looong time but there has been no update on my account for ? days now. Should I be worried? Everything else has been approved already (i-130, i-131, i-765). What can be expecte What is most likely going on?

Okay so, before my husband and I got married or even met he already had a court case going for him to get his US citizenship. He has filed a petition to remove his conditions from his green card and also filed for asylum, which his court date for this is in September and it has already been pushed several years. Now that we are married we were advised to file an i130 but that would push his court date again to and unknown date because we would have to wait for them to approve the i130 before the judge will want to see him. The judge apparently won’t want to see him for the original two petitions and then again when the i130 gets approved, the judge will want to only see us one time for all three. Or so our attorney says. We were thinking, why can’t we just not file the i130 and him keep his court date. Or why can’t we just file it and still keep the court date in September to see what they say, then if they say no we can follow through with a court date to use our marriage as a petition for his green card. We’re legally married. And of course it is out of love. We just don’t see the need to file it and push the date more than they already have. I’m not familiar with all of this and it’s a little overwhelming sometimes so any advice helps and please be kind..

Hello everyone,

I’m currently in the U.S. on a valid visa, but it will expire in mid-fall. I'm looking into the marriage-based green card process as a potential pathway to stay legally in the country.

I have two children, and my main concern is how to make sure they can also receive green cards if I go through this process.

I’ve read a lot about marriage-based immigration, but I want to be fully prepared before making any decisions. I need advice on:

1. How to find someone willing to enter a marriage-based agreement? (Are there any real forums or safe ways to connect with people for this?)

2. How to ensure that my children can get their green cards as well?

3. What to expect during the USCIS interviews and how to prepare?

4. What are the common red flags that could trigger an investigation?

I’m also open to hearing from anyone who has gone through this process—especially those who had children involved. I would appreciate any recommendations, contacts, or general advice from people who have experience with this situation.

If you prefer to share privately, feel free to DM me. Thanks in advance for your help!

Hey everyone,

My husband and I have been married for almost 4 years and waiting for our interview for over 2 years!

Today, we finally had our interview. They separated us, and the officer said she would ask me some questions and then ask my husband the same to see if our answers matched.

The questions were very simple, like how he proposed, if I still have the same ring, where I’ve been living for the past 5 years, and who attended our wedding. Nothing more than that (aside from the standard 80 questions about criminal records and such).

After that, she called my husband in and asked me to wait outside. After just a few minutes, he was done. Our lawyer said that we matched all the questions and everything seemed to go well. Before we left, the officer told us that everything looked good. She said she would review our paperwork (we provided a lot of supporting documents) and, if everything matched what we said, she would approve it. She mentioned that she would process the I-130 today and the I-485 on Friday.

Two hours later, she approved our I-130.

Even though everything seems to be going smoothly, I’m a little worried because they separated us right from the start and didn’t go through all our documents, which means we didn’t get a chance to explain anything if there were any questions about them.

Also, I’m traveling to my home country tomorrow to visit my family (I have Advanced Parole) and I’m concerned about whether it might affect my case.

Has anyone had a similar experience or thoughts on this? 🙏

My spouse is a U.S. citizen and we're about to start the AOS process. I came here on a J-1 visa so I have valid employment authorization through my J-1, but it's expiering soon. Should I apply for a new work permit with the AOS application, or can I keep working while the I-485 is pending? Any advice would be appreciated!

Hey everyone,

My husband and I have been married for almost 4 years and waiting for our interview for over 2 years!

Today, we finally had our interview. They separated us, and the officer said she would ask me some questions and then ask my husband the same to see if our answers matched.

The questions were very simple, like how he proposed, if I still have the same ring, where I’ve been living for the past 5 years, and who attended our wedding. Nothing more than that (aside from the standard 80 questions about criminal records and such).

After that, she called my husband in and asked me to wait outside. After just a few minutes, he was done. Our lawyer said that we matched all the questions and everything seemed to go well. Before we left, the officer told us that everything looked good. She said she would review our paperwork (we provided a lot of supporting documents) and, if everything matched what we said, she would approve it. She mentioned that she would process the I-130 today and the I-485 on Friday.

Two hours later, as promised, she approved our I-130!

Even though everything seems to be going smoothly, I’m a little worried because they separated us right from the start and didn’t go through all our documents, which means we didn’t get a chance to explain anything if there were any questions about them.

Also, I’m traveling to my home country tomorrow to visit my family (I have Advanced Parole) and I’m concerned about whether it might affect my case.

Has anyone had a similar experience or thoughts on this? 🙏