How to Get Your Green Card Through Your Spouse in Minnesota
Obtaining a Green Card through your spouse is an important pathway for many immigrants in Minnesota looking to establish permanent residency in the United States. This process, often referred to as "spousal sponsorship," allows U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents (LPRs) to bring their foreign-born spouses into the U.S. In this article, we will break down the steps you need to take to successfully gain your Green Card through your spouse in Minnesota.
1. Determine Your Eligibility
Before starting the application process, it's crucial to confirm that you meet the eligibility requirements. To qualify, your spouse must be a U.S. citizen or an LPR, and you must be legally married. Additionally, the marriage must be bona fide, meaning you need to prove it's genuine and not for the sole purpose of obtaining a Green Card.
2. Complete Form I-130
The first step in the Green Card process is your spouse filing Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative. This form establishes the relationship between you and your spouse. You will need to submit proof of your marriage, such as a marriage certificate, along with documentation that proves your spouse's citizenship or legal residency.
3. Wait for Approval of Form I-130
After filing Form I-130, you will need to wait for U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to process the petition. The processing times can vary significantly depending on the service center. Once approved, you will receive a Notice of Action (Form I-797). If your spouse is a U.S. citizen, you will not have to wait for a visa number; however, if they are an LPR, there may be a waiting period depending on the availability of visa numbers.
4. Apply for Adjustment of Status
If you are in the U.S. when your I-130 petition is approved, you can apply for adjustment of status using Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status. This step allows you to become a lawful permanent resident without leaving the country. Along with Form I-485, you will need to submit various supporting documents such as your marriage certificate, proof of legal entry, and medical examination results.
5. Attend Your Biometrics Appointment
After submitting the I-485 application, you will be scheduled for a biometrics appointment at a local USCIS office in Minnesota. During this appointment, your fingerprints, photograph, and signature will be collected for background checks. It is essential to attend this appointment as missing it could delay your application.
6. Attend Your Green Card Interview
Once your biometrics are processed, you will be called for an interview with USCIS. Both you and your spouse must attend this interview. The purpose of the interview is to verify the legitimacy of your marriage and gather more details about your relationship. Be prepared to answer questions and provide additional documentation if required.
7. Receive Your Green Card
If your application is approved, you will receive your Green Card in the mail. If you have been married for less than two years at the time of approval, you will receive a conditional Green Card, valid for two years. To remove the conditions, you will need to file Form I-751, Petition to Remove Conditions on Residence, within 90 days before your Green Card expires.
8. Consider Seeking Legal Advice
Navigating the immigration process can be complex, and it's often beneficial to seek the help of an immigration attorney, especially if you foresee any challenges. They can help you understand your rights, ensure that all paperwork is filled out correctly, and prepare you for interviews.
Getting a Green Card through your spouse in Minnesota is a significant step towards achieving your American dream. By following these steps and ensuring all your documentation is in order, you can streamline the process and increase the chances of a positive outcome.