Ing to the USCIS website, the current estimated processing time for an I-130 petition is approximately 10.8 months for a U.S. citizen sponsoring a spouse or child, and 25 months for a green card holder sponsoring a spouse or child.
Submit $760 if filing by paper, or $710 if filing online.
Typically, a K-1 fiancé(e) visa allows for quicker entry into the United States, whereas a marriage-based visa (also called a spouse visa) accelerates the green card process. In 2024, the processing time for a K-1 visa application (Form I-129F) is 4-7 and the processing time for a CR-1 spousal green card is 10.8.
You can apply for US citizenship after 3 years if you are a permanent resident (Green Card holder) and have been married to and living with the same US citizen spouse during that time. Otherwise, most Green Card holders must wait 5 years before applying for naturalization.
Naturalization Process for Marriage Green Card Holders Meet Eligibility Requirements. Prepare Form N-400. Biometrics Appointment. Naturalization Interview. English and Civics Tests. Oath of Allegiance Ceremony. Receive Certificate of Naturalization.
The spouse must have continuously resided in the United States after becoming a lawful permanent resident (LPR) for at least 3 years immediately preceding the date of filing the naturalization application and must have lived in marital union with his or her citizen spouse for at least those 3 years.
You may file Form N-400, Application for Naturalization, 90 calendar days before you complete your continuous residence requirement if your eligibility for naturalization is based upon being a: Permanent resident for at least 5 years; or. Permanent resident for at least 3 years if you are married to a US citizen.
No, marriage to an American citizen does not confer automatic citizenship or immigration status. Marriage to an American citizen lets that citizen petition their government to allow their spouse to immigrate, ie to apply for permanent residency (``green card'').