Marriage-Based Green Card Process: 2025 Guide for U.S. Spouses

Marriage to a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident opens a path to lawful permanent residence, also known as a green card. However, in 2025, that path involves new steps, evolving processing times, and a greater need for preparation than ever before. Whether you’re just beginning your journey or are deep into the paperwork, this updated guide from Aftalion Law breaks down exactly how the marriage-based green card process works, what to expect at each step, and how to avoid delays or denials that can disrupt your life and future.

To get a marriage-based green card in 2025, you’ll typically need to file Form I-130 and Form I-485 (if applying from within the U.S.) or pursue consular processing if you’re abroad. The process involves documenting your marriage, undergoing a medical examination, attending interviews, and waiting for approval from U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Processing times vary but typically range from 12 to 24 months.

Eligibility Requirements

To be eligible for a green card through marriage, you must meet a few fundamental requirements. First, your marriage must be legally valid in the place it was performed. This includes same-sex marriages and marriages performed abroad, so long as they are recognized under the law. Second, the relationship must be bona fide, meaning it’s a real, loving marriage and not one entered into solely for immigration purposes.

In addition, applicants must not be barred from adjustment due to prior immigration violations or other inadmissibility issues. If such problems exist, a waiver may be required.

Step-by-Step Process

1. Filing Form I-130

The process begins when the U.S. citizen or green card holder spouse files Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative, with USCIS. This form establishes the qualifying family relationship. Supporting documents, such as your marriage certificate and proof of a shared life, are crucial to demonstrate that the marriage is genuine.

2. Adjustment of Status or Consular Processing

Once the I-130 is approved, the next step depends on where the foreign spouse is located:

• Inside the U.S.: File Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status.
• Outside the U.S.: Begin Consular Processing, coordinated through the National Visa Center (NVC) and a U.S. embassy or consulate abroad.

3. Document Submission

You’ll need to submit a thorough package including:

• Marriage certificate
• Joint lease or mortgage
• Tax returns filed together
• Photos and affidavits demonstrating your shared life
• Government-issued IDs, birth certificates, and any prior immigration records

4. Biometrics Appointment

Shortly after submission, USCIS will schedule a biometrics appointment to collect fingerprints, photographs, and a digital signature. This is required to run background checks.

5. Medical Examination

A medical exam is mandatory and must be conducted by a USCIS-certified civil surgeon. The sealed results, submitted on Form I-693, verify that you are not inadmissible on health grounds.

6. Interview with USCIS or Consular Officer

This is one of the most crucial steps in the process. Both spouses may be questioned about their relationship, including how they met, their daily routines, shared experiences, and plans. Providing updated evidence of your life together can make a strong impression. While interview waivers have become more common, especially for couples who have been married for over two years and have robust documentation, they are never guaranteed.

Green Card Interview: What to Expect

The green card interview typically occurs between 6 and 14 months after the application is filed. It’s designed to assess the legitimacy of the marriage and verify the information you’ve submitted. A USCIS officer or consular official may ask questions about:

• Your courtship, engagement, and wedding
• Living arrangements and shared financial responsibilities
• Travel, communication, and interactions with each other’s families

Couples should review their application thoroughly and provide honest and consistent responses. Discrepancies, no matter how small, can trigger further scrutiny or delays.

Costs and Timelines (2025)

Marriage-based green card fees increased in 2024 and remain in effect this year:

Estimated Processing Times:

• Adjustment of Status: 12–24 months
• Consular Processing: 14–20 months

Factors that affect processing times include the applicant’s location, USCIS workload, and any requests for evidence (RFEs).

Common Mistakes to Avoid

A green card application can be denied or delayed for several avoidable reasons. Common pitfalls include:

• Submitting incomplete or inconsistent information
• Failing to provide compelling proof of the relationship
• Missing deadlines or failing to respond to USCIS notices
• Showing up to the interview unprepared

Hiring an experienced immigration attorney helps reduce these risks and ensures your application meets all legal standards.