It’s hard to be in a long-distance relationship, but add to that the sting of the US marriage green card system. The wait for U.S. government approval, the boxes of paperwork and the unknown makes time off all the more difficult. Even if you’re already in a long-distance relationship or will be separated during the marriage green card process, here are a few things you can do to stay connected and resilient while you wait to get together with your spouse.
1. Keep Communication Open and Honest
Communication is key in a relationship but especially so when you’re going through the pain of getting a marriage green card. Talk to them a lot and tell them what you’re feeling, about the paperwork, the wait, or whatever is going on. If you’re scared about your marriage green card interview, for instance, tell your spouse. You can even do mock interviews together so that you can all be ready and get over the nerves.
Pro-Tip: Schedule time to check in as a mutual support. It is a way of holding close even when you are miles away.
2. Stay Organized with the Paperwork
The marriage green card process can be very taxing because there is so much paperwork. You’ll need to sign documents, complete forms, and keep tabs on deadlines. It’s imperative to be organized so that stress is avoided and you don’t forget anything.
Make a list of documents and forms you must complete, and have a joint folder that both of you can keep up to date. So the partners will all stay on the same page.
Want more guidance with your marriage green card application? Boundless provides unrestricted assistance from an immigration team of professionals, so you’ll feel confident applying and getting settled into life in the U.S.
3. Plan Visits and Document Them
If you’re waiting a very long time for a green card, you should keep in touch in person. Visits, whenever possible, be sure to write down travel plans and any records of your time together. These visits will also be used to prove that your marriage is “bona fide” (true and sincere) as it is a key requirement for a green card.
But there may be some travel limitations for the foreign spouse who wants the green card, so do your homework.
Tipp: Make sure to check out Boundless’ guide on how to visit your spouse in the U.S. while you are pursuing your marriage green card application so your trips won’t hurt your application. In case of any complications, you might meet in the home country or a third country of the foreign spouse.
4. Be Positive and Don’t Forget About The Small Things.
The immigration process can be long and frustrating but one should never lose heart. — don’t lose sight of the end: your new life together in the US. Meanwhile, don’t sweat the little wins, like hearing that your application was received or that one of the processes has been approved.
Recommendation: You can look forward to it and see some, even small, growth to keep you motivated through the wait.
5. Use Technology to Stay Connected
If you are in a long-distance relationship, technology is your best buddy. Check-with them on WhatsApp, FaceTime, or Telegram to keep up all day. That way you feel connected, even if you can’t be together.
Even online platforms such as shared calendars can help coordinate immigration events, such as medical tests, biometrics appointments, or visa interviews. The more structured it will be, the less stressful it will be and the more the two partners will keep on top of the deadlines.
Recommendation: You can connect over video if you want to feel like you’re hanging out. Remember to arrange sociable virtual things (such as going to a movie or playing an online game) so you don’t drift away.
6. Seek Support from Others
The psychological pressures of operating in a long-distance relationship and through the green card application can wear you down. Don’t be afraid to reach out to friends, family, or even a marriage therapist. Having someone to talk to, who can empathize with you can make things easier.
You can also find other couples going through the same thing. The internet or social media groups are a fantastic place to ask questions and learn from others. The more you can hear from people who have gone through this, the less alone you feel.
Pro-Tip: Attend forums or social media groups on the marriage green card process. These groups can also provide helpful support and counseling from others who know.
If you have long-distance relationships, this process of getting a marriage green card can be hard but you can stay connected with a little planning and work. If you communicate, are patient with the paperwork, schedule visits, stay positive, be tech-savvy, and ask for help, you can maintain a strong relationship until you finally meet in the U.S.
