If you’re wondering how long it takes to get a marriage-based green card, you’re not alone. On average, the process takes about 9.3 months, though this can vary based on whether you’re married to a U.S. citizen or a green card holder, and where you live. There may also be delays depending on your location, as some areas have longer processing times than others.
Here’s a breakdown of how long the marriage green card process typically takes:
Marriage Green Card Timeline for Couples Living in the U.S.
Form I-130 Processing Time
The first step in applying is filing Form I-130 (Petition for Alien Relative). The average processing time for Form I-130 is about 12 months, according to the latest data from Boundless partner Track My Visa Now.
- If your spouse is a U.S. citizen and you live in the U.S.
- Application time: 10–23 months
- If your spouse is a U.S. green card holder and you live in the U.S.
- Application time: 29–40 months
Marriage Green Card Timeline for Couples Living Outside the U.S.
If your spouse is a U.S. citizen and you live abroad
- Application time: 11.4–15 months
- Additional time may depend on consulate or embassy backlogs.
If your spouse is a U.S. green card holder and you live abroad
- Application time: 29–40 months
- Extra time may vary based on consular processing delays.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How much does the marriage green card process cost?
The cost of a marriage green card varies depending on where the applicant is living:
- $3,005 for applicants in the U.S.
- $1,340 for applicants outside the U.S.
Note: In 2023, USCIS proposed increasing application fees, so costs may go up.
2. What are the requirements for a successful marriage green card application?
To apply for a marriage green card, you must:
- Be married to a U.S. citizen or a permanent resident.
- Be at least 18 years old.
- Have no criminal history (certain exceptions apply).
- Prove your marriage is genuine.
3. What causes delays in the marriage green card process?
Delays may occur due to:
- Problems proving the marriage is genuine.
- Errors in the application or missing information.
- USCIS backlogs and consulate delays.
- Incomplete or incorrect documentation.
4. Can I work while my marriage green card application is pending?
If you are in the U.S. and your application is pending, you may be eligible to apply for work authorization. If you’re outside the U.S., you must wait until your green card is approved and you’ve entered the country to work.
5. Can I travel while my marriage green card application is pending?
If you’re in the U.S., you can apply for “advance parole” to travel while your green card application is pending. If you’re outside the U.S., you cannot travel until you receive your green card and enter the country.
6. What happens if my spouse dies while my marriage green card application is pending?
If your spouse dies during the green card process, your application could be revoked. However, in some cases (if married to a U.S. citizen), you may still be able to continue with the application. Consult an immigration lawyer for advice if this happens.
7. How long does it take to become a U.S. citizen?
As a permanent resident, you can apply for U.S. citizenship after 5 years. If married to a U.S. citizen, you can apply after 3 years. These timelines are estimates, and actual processing times may vary.
8. What is the CR1 visa processing time for 2024?
The CR1 visa processing time for 2024 is:
- 11.4–15 months for marriages to U.S. citizens.
- 29–40 months for marriages to U.S. green card holders.
9. Do I need an attorney for the marriage green card process?
While you don’t need an attorney, having legal assistance can help increase the chances of a successful application. An attorney can guide you through the complex process and help avoid common mistakes.
How can I check the current processing times for marriage green cards
To check the current processing times for marriage green cards, you can follow these steps:
1. Visit the USCIS Processing Times Page
- Go to the USCIS Processing Times website.
- Select the appropriate form (e.g., Form I-130 for the petition or Form I-485 for adjustment of status) and the office that is processing your case. This will provide you with the most accurate estimated processing times.
2. Review Current Processing Estimates
- As of January 2025, processing times for marriage green cards are approximate:
- For spouses residing in the U.S.: About 9.3 months for Form I-485.
- For spouses residing outside the U.S.: Approximately 14.3 months for Form I-130 followed by consular processing.
3. Check the Visa Bulletin
- For cases involving spouses outside the U.S., consult the Visa Bulletin to determine if a visa number is available, which can affect processing times.
4. Use Online Tools
- You can also check your specific case status using your receipt number on the USCIS Case Status Online tool to see where your application stands in the process.
The marriage green card process can take several months to years, depending on your situation and where you live. Understanding the process, required documents, and costs can help ensure everything goes smoothly. If you’re unsure or facing delays, it may be worth consulting with an immigration lawyer to help with your application.
How Law and Visas Can Help?
At Law and Visas, our team of expert immigration consultants is here to make your travel straightforward and successful. Whether you’re applying for an IR2 Visa or a CR1 Visa, we handle every step—from preparing your application to gathering the required documents.
Our Immigration Consultants and Lawyers ensure that your application meets the highest standards, with no details missed. We’ll also keep you informed throughout the process and coordinate with the immigration office or embassy on your behalf.
Law and Visas have a strong record of helping clients secure the visas/permits they need for International travel. You can call us today at +234 812 5505 986 to learn how we can help you.
