How To Apply For a Marriage Based Green Card. To apply for a marriage based green card, you must complete and submit Form I-130 (i.e.Find the eligibility category that fits your immigration situation, research how to apply, and learn whether your family members can also apply with you. A licensed lawyer is authorized and qualified to assist you with your immigration case or green card application. Form I-130: Petition for Alien Relative is the first form you must file to start the marriage-based green card application process. Once USCIS approves Form I-130, the prospective visa recipient must fill out Form DS-260, Online Immigrant Visa Application. In order to obtain a green card your qualifying relative must file an immigrant petition on your behalf called an I-130 Petition for Alien Relative. In order to petition to immigrate a family member, you must have proof that you are either a lawful permanent resident or U.S. citizen. A visa can grant you temporary residence in the United States but in order to obtain permanent residence, you will need to apply for a green card. If you are a parent through adoption of a step-parent you need to refer to Form I-130 which has further instructions.