Are you dreaming of calling the United States your permanent home? Whether you’re seeking better opportunities, reuniting with family, or simply starting a new chapter in your life, obtaining a Green Card is a crucial step toward achieving that goal. Here at Freedom Immigration Services in Orlando, Florida, we specialize in Full Service Marriage Green Card Application Services. This blog will guide you through the essential requirements for applying for a Green Card, particularly focusing on marriage-based applications.
Understanding the Green Card
A Green Card, officially known as a Permanent Resident Card, allows non-U.S. citizens to live and work permanently in the United States. There are various pathways to obtain a Green Card, including family sponsorship, employment, refugee or asylum status, and others. One of the most common and straightforward methods is through marriage to a U.S. citizen or a lawful permanent resident.
General Requirements for a Green Card Application
Regardless of the category you are applying under, there are some general requirements that all applicants must meet:
Eligibility Category: Determine which eligibility category you fall under. For marriage-based Green Cards, you must be married to a U.S. citizen or a lawful permanent resident.
Legal Entry: You must have entered the United States legally. This means you were inspected and admitted or paroled by an immigration officer.
Status Maintenance: Ensure that you have maintained a lawful status if you are applying from within the United States. Overstaying a visa can complicate your application process.
Admissibility: You must be admissible to the United States. Certain criminal activities, health issues, or prior immigration violations can make you inadmissible.
Affidavit of Support: Your sponsor (typically your spouse) must sign an affidavit of support, demonstrating that they can financially support you and prevent you from becoming a public charge.
Specific Requirements for a Marriage-Based Green Card
1. Proving a Bona Fide Marriage
A key requirement for a marriage-based Green Card is proving that your marriage is genuine and not entered into for immigration purposes. Here are ways to demonstrate a bona fide marriage:
- Joint Financial Records: Bank statements, tax returns, and insurance policies showing both spouses’ names.
- Living Arrangements: Lease or mortgage documents listing both spouses.
- Shared Responsibilities: Utility bills, household expenses, and other shared responsibilities.
- Personal Evidence: Photos of the couple together, travel itineraries, and affidavits from friends and family attesting to the authenticity of the relationship.
2. Supporting Documentation
When applying for a marriage-based Green Card, you will need to provide several forms and documents:
- Form I-130 (Petition for Alien Relative): Filed by the U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident spouse to establish the relationship.
- Form I-485 (Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status): Filed by the immigrant spouse if applying from within the U.S.
- Form I-864 (Affidavit of Support): Signed by the sponsoring spouse.
- Form I-693 (Report of Medical Examination and Vaccination Record): Completed by a USCIS-approved doctor.
- Proof of Citizenship or Permanent Residence: For the sponsoring spouse.
- Marriage Certificate: Official document proving the marriage.
- Proof of Termination of Prior Marriages: If either spouse has been previously married.
3. Medical Examination and Vaccinations
The immigrant spouse must undergo a medical examination conducted by a USCIS-approved physician. This exam ensures that the applicant does not have any health conditions that would make them inadmissible. The physician will also verify that the applicant has received all necessary vaccinations.
4. Interview
Most marriage-based Green Card applicants will be required to attend an interview with USCIS. The purpose of the interview is to confirm the authenticity of the marriage and assess the eligibility of the applicant. Both spouses should be prepared to answer questions about their relationship, living arrangements, and future plans.
The Role of Freedom Immigration Services
Navigating the Green Card application process can be complex and daunting. That’s where Freedom Immigration Services comes in. We offer Full Service Marriage Green Card Application Services, guiding you through every step of the process. Here’s how we can help:
- Comprehensive Consultation: We begin with a thorough consultation to understand your situation and eligibility.
- Document Preparation and Review: Our experts will help you gather, prepare, and review all necessary documents to ensure accuracy and completeness.
- Form Filing Assistance: We assist in accurately completing and filing all required forms, reducing the risk of errors that could delay your application.
- Interview Preparation: We provide detailed guidance and mock interviews to help you and your spouse prepare for the USCIS interview.
- Follow-Up and Support: Throughout the process, we offer continuous support and follow-up to address any issues or concerns that arise.
Conclusion
Applying for a Green Card, especially through marriage, is a significant step toward building a new life in the United States. The process involves meeting various requirements and providing substantial evidence to prove the authenticity of your marriage. While it may seem overwhelming, Freedom Immigration Services in Orlando, Florida, is here to help. Our Full Service Marriage Green Card Application Services are designed to make the journey smoother and more manageable.
With our expertise and dedication, we aim to help you achieve your dream of becoming a permanent resident of the United States. Contact us today to start your Green Card application process with confidence.