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Make edits, fill in missing information, and update formatting in US Legal Forms—just like you would in MS Word.

Download a copy, print it, send it by email, or mail it via USPS—whatever works best for your next step.

Sign and collect signatures with our SignNow integration. Send to multiple recipients, set reminders, and more. Go Premium to unlock E-Sign.

If this form requires notarization, complete it online through a secure video call—no need to meet a notary in person or wait for an appointment.

We protect your documents and personal data by following strict security and privacy standards.
The U.S. citizen spouse establishes the marriage relationship by filing Form I-130. Apply for the green card through adjustment of status (Form I-485) if you're living in the U.S. or Form DS-260 if you're a foreign national living abroad. Attend the marriage-based green card interview and await approval.
ONE OPTION IS THAT BOTH YOU AND YOUR SPOUSE CAN CHOOSE TO TREAT THE NONRESIDENT ALIEN SPOUSE AS A U.S. RESIDENT FOR TAX PURPOSES. IF YOU MAKE THIS CHOICE, YOUR FILING STATUS IS MARRIED FILING JOINTLY. IT'S IMPORTANT TO UNDERSTAND THAT MAKING THIS CHOICE DOESN'T CHANGE YOUR SPOUSE'S U.S. IMMIGRATION STATUS.
The length of time it takes to get a green card varies depending on several factors, including the type of application you are submitting and current USCIS processing times. A marriage green card or spousal visa, for example, can take anywhere from 10–35 months.
The U.S. citizen can file a Married Filing Separately return. The nonresident alien spouse, if required to file a return, would file Form 1040 NR. In this situation, the volunteer can assist in the preparation of Form 1040 for the U.S. citizen but must refer the spouse to a professional tax preparer.
In certain situations, you can claim your nonresident alien spouse as a dependent if they have no gross income and aren't a US citizen or resident. This allows you to use the head of household status. However, your spouse must have an ITIN, and you must provide over half of their support.
The Legal Lowdown Josh explains that you don't have to file taxes together for a marriage-based green card—it's not a must. Even if you file separately, it's possible to get approval, but it's something they can choose to consider. In such cases, you need more proof to make your case stronger.
- The processing time for U.S. citizens filing Form I-130 for a spouse beneficiary ranges from 13-54.5 months. - The processing time for legal permanent residents filing Form I-130 for a spouse beneficiary ranges from 32-67.5 months.
Green Card Sponsorship Income Summary The minimum income for a household of 2 to sponsor a family member or spouse is $25,550 as of August 2024. Minimum income requirements are lower for active duty military members. The general income requirement is 125% of the HHS Poverty Guidelines or 100% for active duty military.
If you are married to a US citizen and both of you live in the United States, you can apply for your green card (Lawful Permanent Residency) immediately after your marriage. There is no mandatory waiting period before you can submit your application.