Marrying a U.S. Citizen After Filing I-485: Green Card Marriage Application Explained (2024)

Key Takeaways:

• Marrying a U.S. citizen after filing an I-485 can speed up the green card process.
• Notify USCIS immediately, provide necessary documents, and potentially file a new I-485.
• Prepare for interviews and consult with an immigration attorney for guidance during the green card marriage application.

Impact of Marriage on Your Green Card Application

Marriage is an event that can transform your personal life, and if you’re engaged in the U.S. immigration process, it can also affect your application status. This is especially true if you marry a U.S. citizen after you’ve already filed your I-485 Adjustment of Status for green card eligibility based on another visa category.

Adjusting Your I-485 after Marrying a U.S. Citizen

If you’ve submitted your I-485 form and then marry a U.S. citizen, you’ll need to inform U.S. immigration authorities about this life-changing event. Marrying a U.S. citizen can potentially speed up the process to obtain lawful permanent residency status because you’re moving to a category that often has visa numbers immediately available.

What Should You Do Next?

Immediately notify the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) about your marriage. You can do this by:

• Contacting the USCIS Contact Center.
• Following the guidance you receive from USCIS, which may include submitting additional forms or supporting documents.
• If instructed, providing a copy of your marriage certificate and evidence that the marriage is bona fide (i.e., genuine and not entered into for the purpose of evading U.S. immigration laws).

Visit the USCIS website for official information and guidance.

The Green Card Marriage Application Process

Upon marrying a U.S. citizen, you should consider the following next steps in the green card marriage application process:

1. Your U.S. citizen spouse should file Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative, affirming the marital relationship.
2. You may be required to file a new I-485 Adjustment of Status. This would depend on whether or not your current application can be updated to reflect your new marital status.
3. Additional documents will be necessary to establish the validity of your marriage during the application process.

Providing proof of a bona fide marriage includes, but is not limited to:

• Joint bank account statements.
• Lease or mortgage agreements displaying both names.
• Birth certificates of children born to the marriage.
• Photographs and affidavits from friends and family.

Things to Keep in Mind

• Filing Deadlines: Ensure you adhere to any filing deadlines provided by USCIS to avoid complications.
• Interview Process: Be prepared for a potential interview with USCIS as part of their investigation into the legitimacy of your marriage.
• Legal Counsel: Consider consulting with an immigration attorney to assist you throughout the adjustment process.

Final Thoughts

Marrying a U.S. citizen while your green card application is pending is a significant milestone that can influence your immigration journey. It’s crucial to deal with it promptly and correctly. Reach out to USCIS, update your application with the authentic documentation, and ensure you comply with the laid-out procedures for a green card marriage application.

Always refer to up-to-date resources and consider professional legal advice. The U.S. immigration system can be complex, and every case is unique, so making informed decisions is essential in achieving a positive outcome.

And there you have it, folks! Marrying a U.S. citizen can speed up your green card application process and unlock a world of opportunities. Just remember to inform USCIS, gather the required documents, and cross all your “i’s” and dot your “t’s”. For more tips and insights on navigating the immigration maze, head over to visaverge.com. Happy exploring!

FAQ’s to know:

FAQ 1: What should I do if I marry a U.S. citizen after submitting my I-485 form for a green card?

Answer:
If you marry a U.S. citizen after submitting your I-485 form for a green card, it is important to notify the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) about your marriage. You can do this by contacting the USCIS Contact Center and following their guidance, which may include submitting additional forms or supporting documents. You may also be required to provide a copy of your marriage certificate and evidence that the marriage is bona fide (genuine) and not entered into for the purpose of evading immigration laws.

FAQ 2: What are the next steps in the green card marriage application process after marrying a U.S. citizen?

Answer:
After marrying a U.S. citizen, there are a few next steps you should consider in the green card marriage application process. First, your U.S. citizen spouse should file Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative, to affirm the marital relationship. Depending on your current application, you may also need to file a new I-485 Adjustment of Status. Additionally, you will need to provide additional documents to establish the validity of your marriage, such as joint bank account statements, lease or mortgage agreements displaying both names, and photographs and affidavits from friends and family.

FAQ 3: What should I keep in mind when applying for a green card based on marriage to a U.S. citizen?

Answer:
When applying for a green card based on marriage to a U.S. citizen, there are several things to keep in mind. Firstly, make sure to adhere to any filing deadlines provided by USCIS to avoid complications. Additionally, be prepared for a potential interview with USCIS to investigate the legitimacy of your marriage. Finally, consider consulting with an immigration attorney to guide you throughout the adjustment process, as the U.S. immigration system can be complex. It’s essential to make informed decisions and follow the correct procedures to ensure a positive outcome.

What did you learn? Answer below to know:

1. What should you do if you get married to a U.S. citizen after submitting your I-485 Adjustment of Status form for a green card?

a) Keep it a secret and hope it doesn’t affect your application
b) Immediately notify the USCIS and provide necessary documentation
c) Wait until your application is approved before informing the USCIS
d) Cancel your green card application and start the process anew

1. Which form should your U.S. citizen spouse file after marrying you for the green card application process?

a) Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization
b) Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative
c) Form I-864, Affidavit of Support
d) Form I-751, Petition to Remove Conditions on Residence

1. What additional documents may be required to establish the validity of your marriage during the green card marriage application process?

a) Rental receipts and utility bills
b) Driver’s licenses of you and your spouse
c) Joint bank account statements and mortgage agreements
d) Social security cards of you and your spouse