Marriage-Based Green Card
A Marriage-Based Green Card allows the spouse of a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident (LPR) to obtain permanent residence in the United States. It is one of the most common family-based immigration pathways and provides the right to live, work, and eventually apply for U.S. citizenship.
Foreign nationals legally married to a U.S. citizen
Foreign nationals legally married to a lawful permanent resident (green card holder)
Must be in a legally valid marriage (recognized by the country/state where it took place)
Must prove the marriage is bona fide (real and not entered into for immigration benefits)
Spouse must be a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident
Must meet admissibility requirements (no major criminal bars, immigration fraud, or health-related grounds)
Forms required: I-130 (Petition for Alien Relative) and I-485 (Adjustment of Status) if spouse is in the U.S., or consular processing if abroad
Processing Time
Varies by USCIS service center and consulate
Typically 12–24 months depending on case type and location
Work/travel authorization (EAD/AP) often granted within 3–6 months after filing
Visa Duration
10 years: If marriage >2 years at approval
2 years (conditional): If marriage <2 years (Form I-751 required)
Renewable: Permanent residence
OpenSphere Services
Petition Prep: Forms I-130, I-485, DS-260 + evidence
Marriage Proof Strategy: Joint docs, affidavits, photos
RFE/NOID Support
Guidance: Green card to citizenship
