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Visas and Green Cards Based on Marriage to a U.S. Green Card Holder
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A foreign-born person who marries a U.S. lawful permanent resident (green card holder) has a right to a U.S. green card -- but not right away. The person becomes what's known as a preference relative, and can only receive a green card when one becomes available. And because of annual limits on the number available, the waiting list can be years long.
Overview of Marriage-Based Green Cards
The applicant's responsibility to show that the marriage is the real thing.
When common law marriages may be used as a basis for an application for U.S. lawful permanent residence.
Making sure your marriage will meet the requirements to obtain a green card for the immigrant.
Start planning now to prove that your marriage is the real thing, by gathering documents and preparing for your marriage interview.
Married young? Make sure this will work for immigration purposes.
Learn the limited circumstances under which a proxy marriage may qualify an immigrant for U.S. lawful permanent residence.
An Immigrant's Rights Upon Marriage to a U.S. Permanent Resident
Why marriage to a U.S. lawful permanent resident does not lead to an immediate right to a work permit.
The procedures, in particular the long waiting period, for immigrants marrying a U.S. green card holder.
Possibilities for gaining the right for your deported spouse to return, most likely with the help of a waiver application.
Your rights to a U.S. green card, and the barriers to receiving it anytime soon.
Possibilities and pitfalls for a person who overstays a visa marrying a U.S. permanent resident.
How an attorney can help with the complicated situation of a marriage to someone who overstayed a U.S. visa.
Dealing with issues like the two-year foreign residence requirement and the waiting period caused by limits on visa numbers.
Application Process After Marriage to a Permanent Resident
A step-by-step guide to submitting the needed forms and documents and getting through other procedural hoops.
Common errors to avoid.
Fraudulent Marriages
Learn what's considered marriage fraud, how the authorities detect it, and what happens to perpetrators who get caught.
Impact of Separation or Divorce
Learn what happens to your application for a marriage-based green card if the marriage ends.
Denials of Green Cards Based on Marriage
How to handle a denial of a green card based on marriage.
Additional Resources
Fiance and Marriage Visas: A Couple's Guide to U.S. Immigration
Get step-by-step instructions on applying for a green card based on marriage.
Get step-by-step instructions on applying for a green card based on marriage.
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