Phoenix Marriage Green Card Lawyer

Attorneys Helping Spouses Secure Permanent Residency in Phoenix, AZ

Are you a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident married to a foreign national? If so, you may be able to help your spouse obtain a green card. A Marriage Green Card, also known as a Marriage-Based Green Card or Form I-130, grants lawful permanent residency to a foreign national married to a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident. This card is typically valid for 10 years.

At Essien Law Firm, we know how important it is for you and your spouse to be together. Our Phoenix marriage green card attorneys guide couples through the entire application process to maximize the likelihood of approval. From start to finish, we share the same goal as you: for you and your spouse to secure your future together in the United States.

Call us at (602) 833-2650 or message us online to learn more about your legal options for marriage-based green card services in Phoenix, AZ.

Eligibility for a Marriage Green Card in Phoenix

To be eligible for a marriage-based green card, you must meet certain requirements. For example, you and your spouse must have a bona fide marriage, which means you are married in good faith and not for the purpose of obtaining a green card. U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) will thoroughly review your application to verify that your marriage is legitimate.

Other eligibility requirements for a Marriage Green Card include:

• One spouse must be a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident
• You must be legally married to your spouse
• Your spouse must be willing to sponsor your green card application
• You must be at least 18 years old

It is important to note that you may not be eligible for a Marriage Green Card if you:

• Are still married to someone else
• Are married to a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident, but your spouse does not want to sponsor your application
• Are married to a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident, but your spouse has a history of domestic violence
• Are married to a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident, but your spouse has a criminal record

Our marriage green card attorney in Phoenix can help you determine if you are eligible for Form I-130 permanent residency, as well as answer any other questions you may have about the application process.

How to Apply for a Marriage Green Card

The first step is for your spouse to file a Petition for Alien Relative (Form I-130).

This form is used to establish the existence of a qualifying relationship between a foreign national and a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident. Your spouse will need to provide evidence of his or her U.S. citizenship or lawful permanent residency and proof of your marriage.

Once Form I-130 is approved, your spouse will need to file Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status. This form is used to apply for a Marriage Green Card.

There are several documents your spouse will need to include with Form I-485, including:

• 2 passport-style photos of you and your spouse
• Proof of your spouse’s U.S. citizenship or lawful permanent residency
• Proof of your lawful entry into the United States
• Form I-94, Arrival/Departure Record
• Form I-693, Report of Medical Examination and Vaccination Record
• Form I-864, Affidavit of Support
• Proof of your marriage
• Proof it is a bona fide marriage
• Proof of termination of any previous marriages
• Proof of any legal name changes

Once your spouse submits Form I-485, you will receive a notice to attend a biometrics appointment where USCIS will take your fingerprints, photograph, and signature. USCIS will then schedule an interview at a U.S. consulate or embassy or USCIS office in the United States. At this interview, you and your spouse will need to answer questions about your marriage. You will need specific documents for the interview, including your passport, birth certificate, and marriage certificate.

If the officer who conducts the interview is satisfied with your responses and the evidence you provide, he or she may approve your application. You will then receive your marriage green card in the mail.