Things You Need To Know About The Process of Adjustment Of Status Through Marriage

The process of gaining immigration status in the USA can be complicated. Gaining your status in the United States is known as adjusting one’s status. This can be accomplished when a foreign national enters the United States and can provide proof of admission and inspection upon entry. A foreign national who enters the United States with a visa but overstays the terms of the visa, may still be able to adjust his status if he becomes married to a United States citizen. Yet, without proof of admission and inspection upon entry, the foreign national may have a difficult time getting a green card.

It is important to understand that entering into a marriage with a United States citizen will not cure the government’s requirement that the foreign national must prove admission and inspection upon entry into the United States.

It is common to assume that marriage to a US citizen will automatically provide immigration benefits. However, this is not the case. Marriage to a US citizen does not automatically provide an individual with any immigration benefits. Instead, you will need to apply for a green card by submitting applications to USCIS and most times, by later being interviewed by the government.

Green Cards Through Marriage to a United States Citizen Explained

A green card provides the cardholder with the right to live and work in the United States. The holder will have “permanent resident” status until they choose to apply for U.S citizenship. They will be eligible to do this after three years if they remain married to the United States citizen spouse who initially petitioned for them.

There are several necessary steps when applying for a green card through marriage to a United States citizen. The total time it takes to obtain the green card can be anywhere between nine and thirty-six months. Much proof has to be submitted with the applications and the quality of the proof can determine if the government will choose to slow down the process by requesting from you more information. To ensure that you understand your options and prepare the application correctly, it is important for you to use an immigration lawyer NYC service to keep you on the right path. Reiner and Pleva, PLLC is an expert in preparing the strongest adjustment applications and can assist you with this complicated process.

How Much Does This Process Cost?

Although USCIS is free to change the application fees after public notice, currently the cost for adjusting one’s status in the United States is $1,760. However, you will also be responsible for the cost of a medical examination to submit to the government. This can be up to $500.

How Do You Establish Your Marriage?

The preparation of accurate applications are crucial. If you are married to a United States citizen, you will be able to file many forms together, such as the Form I-130 and the Form I-485. These forms will establish that you have a “real” marriage to a United States citizen and that you are not inadmissible to the United States for any reason.

Some of the documents that you will need to submit with your applications will prove that the sponsoring spouse is a citizen of the U.S and is free to enter into a marriage with you. You will also need to submit proof that you and your spouse share assets and liabilities together. The government will require you to provide identity documents as well as copies of any criminal records that you may have. The final list of all required documents may seem overwhelming, and that is why you need expert immigration attorneys to assist you with this process. Reiner and Pleva, PLLC immigration lawyer NYC, NY can explain the process to you and skillfully prepare your green card application.

We hope this helps you understand how marriage to a U.S citizen can impact your immigration to the United States. As this is a complex process, it’s always advisable that you use the support of an immigration lawyer. They will ensure that all steps are completed the right way and increase your chances of success.

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