IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse of a U.S. Citizen
The marriage green card — no annual caps, no backlog, managed from petition to interview.
Overview
Spouses of U.S. citizens are immediate relatives: no Visa Bulletin wait. Marriages under two years at approval receive a CR-1 conditional green card (removed via I-751); marriages of two-plus years receive the ten-year IR-1. Spouses abroad use consular processing; spouses in the U.S. can adjust status with work and travel permits.
Marriage cases are won on bona fides — joint finances, cohabitation, photographs, and a consistent story.
Who May Qualify
- A legally valid, bona fide marriage to a U.S. citizen
- Petitioner's proof of citizenship and I-864 financial sponsorship at 125% of poverty guidelines
- Beneficiary admissibility or an available waiver
How We Help
- Route strategy: adjustment vs. consular, timed to your life plans
- Bona fides evidence architecture and interview preparation
- I-130, I-485/DS-260, I-864, and medical exam coordination
- I-751 removal of conditions filings
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a marriage green card take?
Typically 8–18 months depending on route and USCIS/NVC processing times.
My spouse overstayed a prior visit — is that fatal?
Usually not for spouses of citizens adjusting inside the U.S.; consular cases need closer analysis.
This page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. No attorney-client relationship is formed by viewing this page. Immigration law is complex and fact-specific — please consult a qualified immigration attorney about your individual situation.