A green card through marriage to a US citizen is the most common way to become a permanent resident. There is no limit on the number of people who can obtain a green card through marriage to a US citizen. The US citizen starts the process by submitting a form I-130 visa petition on behalf of his/her spouse. If the spouse entered the US lawfully, he/she can file for Adjustment of Status (Form I-485) at the same time and can get a green card without having to leave the US.
If you entered the United States with a visa (or ESTA) and got married after 90 days to a U.S. citizen, you are probably eligible to submit an application to adjust your status to lawful permanent resident. Approximately one year after you submit your application, you and your spouse will need to appear for a green card marriage interview with the USCIS.
In the present environment, there are so many things that can go wrong at your interview. However, if you and your spouse take the time to prepare for your interview, most (if not all) of these negative outcomes can be avoided.
Spend some time with your spouse studying the questions & answers on:
The I-130 Visa Petition;
The I-485 Application for Adjustment of Status;
The I-864 Affidavit of Support; and
Any other documents which you submitted to the USCIS.
Your History
When and where did you meet?
Who introduced you to each other?
Where was your first date?
When did you meet each other’s parents?
What are the names of your spouse’s father and mother?
Your Wedding
What did your spouse wear at your wedding?
Who attended your wedding?
Where did the wedding take place?
Were your parents there?
Where did you go on your honeymoon?
Your Relationship
When is your spouse’s birthday?
Where have you gone on vacation together?
What is your spouse’s religion?
When is your anniversary?
Do you live together 24/7?
Who takes care of household finances?
Your Daily Life
Which side of the bed do you sleep on?
Do you have any pets?
How does your spouse get to work?
How many bedrooms are there in your house/apartment?
Your Friends and Family
How often do you see each other’s families?
When was the last time you saw your spouse’s parents?
What are the names of your spouse’s brothers and sisters ?
What’s your spouse’s best friend’s name?
Education
Where did your spouse go to school?
Did he/she go to college?
What subject did your spouse major in?
Does your spouse have a college degree?
Employment
Where does your spouse work?
What is your spouse’s occupation?
How long has your spouse been working there?
What is your spouse’s salary?
Documents You Should Bring to Your Green Card Marriage Interview
Proof of US Citizenship of the Petitioning Spouse
Certified copy of U.S. Birth Certificate; or
Certificate of Naturalization
Copy of Your Marriage Certificate
Copy of Termination of Any Prior Marriages
Your Passport
Proof of Lawful U.S. Entry
Drivers Licenses
Jointly Filed Income Tax Returns
Joint Lease Agreement
Joint Bank and Checking Accounts
Joint Insurance Policies and Credit Cards
Wedding Photos
If your marriage is less than 2 years old when your green card is granted, it will expire in 2 years. You and your spouse must submit a form I-751 joint petition during the 90-day period prior before the expiration of your green card in order to obtain a 10-year green card.
For more information, please see
https://www.shusterman.com/green-card-through-marriage/
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