Applying for a marriage green card in the United States is a significant step for many couples. It's a process that requires careful attention to detail, particularly when it comes to the necessary paperwork. This article aims to guide you through the various forms and documents required for a marriage green card application, ensuring you understand what's needed every step of the way.

The marriage green card application process can seem daunting, but with the right knowledge and preparation, it can be made much more manageable. The key is to understand the forms you need to fill out and the documents you need to provide. These forms and documents are essential for proving your identity, your marital status, your financial stability, and your eligibility for a green card.

Remember, the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) requires that all documents not in English be accompanied by a certified translation. It's also important to submit clear, legible photocopies of original documents, unless specifically requested by the USCIS. If certain documents are unavailable, you may provide notarized statements from yourself and one or two other people.

In the following sections, we will delve into the specifics of each form and the associated documents required. Let's begin your journey towards a successful marriage green card application.

Understanding the Forms Required for a Marriage Green Card Application

When applying for a marriage green card, you'll encounter several forms that you need to fill out accurately and completely. Each form serves a specific purpose and requires certain documents to support your application. Let's break down each form and its requirements.

The I-130 form, also known as the Petition for Alien Relative, is the first form you'll need to complete. This form is used to establish the relationship between you, the U.S. citizen or permanent resident, and the person seeking the green card (your spouse). 

The documents required for this form include proof of your U.S. citizenship or permanent resident status, such as a copy of your U.S. passport, birth certificate, naturalization certificate, or green card. You'll also need to provide a marriage certificate to prove your marital relationship, and if applicable, divorce or death certificates of any previous marriages.

The I-485 form, or the Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status, is the main application form for the green card. This form is used by the person seeking the green card to apply for lawful permanent resident status.

Documents required for this form include a copy of your birth certificate, passport-style photos, a copy of your passport page with nonimmigrant visa (if applicable), a copy of your passport page with your admission or parole stamp (if applicable), and copies of court records (if you've been arrested).

Online Green Card Application Form (DS-260)

The DS-260 form, or the Immigrant Visa Electronic Application, is the form you'll fill out if you're applying for the green card from outside the United States. This form is completed online and submitted electronically.

For this form, you'll need to provide information about your background, including your education, work experience, and criminal history, if any. You'll also need to provide information about your spouse and any children.

The I-864 form, or the Affidavit of Support, is a document that a U.S. sponsor files on behalf of the person applying for the green card. This form proves that the sponsor has enough income and/or assets to support the intending immigrant.

To complete this form, you'll need to provide your federal tax returns for the most recent three years, a letter from your employer stating your job title, the date you started working, your salary, and whether the position is temporary or permanent. You'll also need to provide pay stubs from the past six months and a copy of your bank statement.

The I-765 form, or the Application for Employment Authorization, is the form you'll fill out if you want to work in the United States while your green card application is being processed.

For this form, you'll need to provide a copy of your I-94 travel record, a copy of your passport photo page, two passport-style photos, and a copy of a previous work permit (if you had one).

The I-131 form, or the Application for Travel Document, is the form you'll fill out if you need to travel outside the United States while your green card application is being processed.

For this form, you'll need to provide a copy of your I-94 travel record, a copy of your passport photo page, two passport-style photos, and a copy of a previous travel document (if you had one).

Remember, each form serves a specific purpose and requires specific documents. Make sure to gather all necessary documents before starting the application process to ensure a smooth and successful application.

While the forms mentioned in the previous section are the primary components of your marriage green card application, there are several additional documents that you may need to gather. Some of these documents can be hard to find, but they are crucial for a successful application. Here's a checklist to help you gather these documents:

You'll need to provide a government-issued identification document, such as a passport or driver's license. Make sure the document is current and clearly shows your photo and full name.

This can be your birth certificate or passport from your country of origin. If these documents are not in English, remember to provide a certified translation.

Your marriage certificate serves as proof of your valid marriage. If you were married in a foreign country, you might need to provide additional documentation to prove that the marriage is recognized in that country.

If you or your spouse were previously married, you need to provide proof that those marriages have been legally terminated. This can be a divorce decree or a death certificate.

If you or your spouse have changed your name(s) legally, you need to provide the official name change document. This could be a marriage certificate if the name was changed upon marriage, or a court order for other name changes.

This can be demonstrated through tax returns, pay stubs, or bank statements. The purpose is to show that the sponsoring spouse can financially support the immigrant spouse.

If you're using assets to meet the financial requirement, you'll need to provide documents showing the value of those assets. This could include property deeds, vehicle titles, or stock certificates.

If the immigrant spouse is already in the U.S., you'll need to provide proof of lawful entry. This could be a visa stamp in the passport or an I-94 travel record.

Proof of Pending Marriage-Based Green Card Application

If you're applying for a work permit or travel document while your green card application is pending, you'll need to provide a copy of the receipt notice for your green card application.

Proof of Previous Authorization to Work in the U.S.

If the immigrant spouse has previously been authorized to work in the U.S., provide a copy of the previous work permit.

Remember, it's essential to provide clear, legible photocopies of these documents. If a document is not in English, it must be accompanied by a certified translation. Gathering these documents can take time, so it's a good idea to start as early as possible.

Important Guidelines for Document Submission

Submitting your documents correctly is just as important as gathering the right ones. Here are some guidelines to help you ensure your documents are submitted in the best possible manner:

Requirement for Certified Translation of Non-English Documents

If any of your documents are not in English, they must be accompanied by a certified translation. The translator must certify that they are competent to translate and that the translation is accurate. This is crucial as any misunderstanding or misinterpretation of your documents could affect your application.

Importance of Submitting Clear, Legible Photocopies of Original Documents

Unless specifically requested by the USCIS, you should submit photocopies of your original documents. However, these photocopies must be clear and legible. Unclear or illegible photocopies may lead to delays in processing your application or even denial of your application.

USCIS's Specific Request for Original Documents

In some cases, the USCIS may request to see the original documents. If this happens, you will receive a notice from the USCIS with instructions. It's important to follow these instructions carefully and provide the requested documents promptly.

Procedure When Certain Documents are Unavailable

If certain documents are unavailable or impossible to obtain, you may provide notarized statements from yourself and one or two other people who can confirm the same facts. For example, if you can't obtain a birth certificate because it was destroyed in a fire, you could provide a notarized statement from yourself explaining the situation and a notarized statement from a relative who can confirm your date and place of birth.

Remember, the USCIS understands that obtaining certain documents can be challenging and they provide alternatives for such situations. However, it's important to provide as much evidence as possible to support your application and to follow the USCIS's instructions carefully. Your diligence and attention to detail in this process can make a significant difference in the outcome of your application.

Applying for a marriage green card in the United States is a process that requires careful attention to detail, particularly when it comes to the necessary paperwork. Understanding the various forms and documents required for a marriage green card application is crucial to ensuring a smooth application process.

We've covered the primary forms you'll need to fill out, including the I-130, I-485, DS-260, I-864, I-765, and I-131 forms. We've also provided a checklist of hard-to-find documents that you may need to gather, such as proof of identity, nationality, valid marriage, termination of prior marriages, official name change, financial support ability, asset value, lawful U.S. entry and status, pending marriage-based green card application, and previous authorization to work in the U.S.

Remember, all documents not in English must be accompanied by a certified translation, and you should submit clear, legible photocopies of original documents, unless specifically requested by the USCIS. If certain documents are unavailable, you may provide notarized statements from yourself and one or two other people.

The process may seem daunting, but with the right preparation and understanding of the requirements, you can navigate it successfully. Remember, the goal is to provide as much evidence as possible to support your application and to follow the USCIS's instructions carefully. Your diligence and attention to detail can make a significant difference in the outcome of your application. Good luck on your journey towards obtaining a marriage green card in the United States!

Applying for a U.S. marriage green card? This guide outlines the necessary forms and documents, including I-130, I-485, DS-260, I-864, I-765, and I-131. It also helps you prepare a checklist of essential documents like proof of identity and valid marriage. Remember, clear photocopies of original documents are needed, and non-English documents require certified translations. If a document is missing, we guide you on using notarized statements. Ensure your application success with our detailed guide.

U.S. Marriage Green Card Application: Required Documents Guide

After you've filled the application, our expert team reviews your entries to maximize your chance of success before submission. Or if you want to avoid our online application, you can speak with our professionals who can fill your application while they are on the phone with you.

Here are the steps to apply for your visa.

Whether your goal is to get your Green Card or just to get a Visa for the United States, you've came to the right place. Our expert consultants are here to make the process easy on you and to maximize your chance of success of your United States Visa approval.

We know that the process is complicated and it can be hard to get started. With our easy to use technology, My-Visa-UAS lets you get started applying for your United States Visa today. Every applicant receives a personalized review of their application by our team of experts before submission to ensure that your application is correct and to maximize your chance of success.

Personalized U.S. Visa Consulting and Service

1 out of every 3 VISA applications for the United States are denied, and this is usually due to oversights and not having the necessary support. Our combination of an online application and expert human review maximizes your change of success.

When you apply in your language, you will save countless time and effort. In addition, by ensuring that your application is correct, you will avoid delays and the need to reapply.

Most Visa assistance services charge hundreds of dollars for their services. Our service is much cheaper and more efficient. Save your money for your trip to the United States by applying with our service.

By using our service, you greatly reduce the risk of clerical errors and your application being denied. Our experts will review your application and ensure that it is correct.

When you enroll in our service, we'll keep you up to date with any updates to your Visa application through text message or email. You will also receive a guide with tips for your interview, and we'll even schedule the interview for you.

If your application is rejected for any clerical error (which happens in 1-2 weeks), we'll help you apply again immediately at no additional cost. Our custom service is our number 1 priority, and we work tirelessly to help ensure that your application is approved.

Our advisors are available to help you get your visa to the United States and your can begin anytime.

Are you ready to apply for your Visa to the United States?

Increase the Chance of Your Visa Being Approved

Save Precious Time

Save Your Money

Rest Assured

Stay informed

Unlimited Re-Applications

What Are The Benefits?

'The experience with My-Visa-USA was incredible. Not only was it very affordable, but their online form was easy to use and saved a lot of time. I appreciate the entire My-Visa-USA team for making the visa application process so straightforward. Now, thanks to their help, I am happily living in the United States.'

'I am very grateful to My-Visa-USA. The visa application process was easy and efficient. I saved a lot of money and time. Their customer service was also exceptional; they were always available to answer all my questions. Thank you, My-Visa-USA!'

'My-Visa-USA made the visa application process incredibly easy. I didn't have to deal with long phone calls or visit a physical office. The online form was simple and affordable. Thanks to My-Visa-USA, I can now fulfill my dream of studying in the United States.'

'Applying for a visa always seemed like a complicated and expensive process, but with My-Visa-USA, it was the opposite. The process was simple, efficient, and most importantly, affordable. I am very grateful to My-Visa-USA for making this dream come true.'

'I am impressed with the ease and speed of the visa application process with My-Visa-USA. Their team of experts was very helpful and always available to answer my questions. And all of this at a lower price than other services. I will definitely recommend My-Visa-USA to my friends and family.'

My-Visa-USA provides a personalized, affordable, and efficient US Visa consulting and application service. Apply for various types of US visas, including tourism, business, immigration, study, and humanitarian in your native language. Maximize your chance of success with our expert review and guidance throughout the process. Start your US Visa journey today with My-Visa-USA!

My-Visa-USA is not affiliated with any United States government agency and does not represent any government entity, embassies, or consulates. Our services include advice and assistance throughout the visa application, immigration, or citizenship process. However, the final decision on the visa application is made by the Consular Officer of the United States Embassy or Consulate.

Our company specializes in consultancy for obtaining US visas. We provide support services and handle the paperwork on your behalf. In addition, we have experts dedicated to each step of the process to increase your chances of approval for the US visa.

No, although we have the experience of several immigration lawyers with whom we work, we do not offer legal services. We only provide you with digital tools and proven expertise to increase your chances of acquiring the US visa. If you need legal advice, we can put you in touch with one of our associated lawyers.

The duration depends on several factors, including the capacity of the United States Embassy or Consulate in your country.

The fee required by the United States government is paid whether the visa is accepted or not, and it is non-refundable. Our advice aims to increase the likelihood of your visa being approved.

If there is not enough time for you to be granted a visa, or if you prefer not to apply for one, it is preferable that your company changes the route and chooses one that does not go through the United States.

The possibility of obtaining a visa more quickly depends on: 1. The need to travel due to the death of an immediate relative or serious illness, 2. You or a minor child requiring urgent medical treatment, 3. Attending an urgent business meeting, 4. Making an unexpected visit for various reasons. To learn about other cases in which you may be able to travel more quickly, start the visa application process, or request more information, do not hesitate to contact us.

Are you affiliated with the United States Embassy?

Why should get my Visa with My-USA-Visa?

Is My-Visa-USA a law firm?

How long does it take to obtain a US visa?

If my visa is denied, will I get a refund?

My flight is tomorrow, can I apply for a transit visa?

Can I get a visa sooner?

Not sure if you qualify?

Select the reason for your trip:

Our service is quick, cheap, and easy to use. Our experienced team will assist you from application to interview

You can get a head start filling in the details we need to process your application

Start Applying for Your United States Visa Today

Ready to Get Started?

Click the 'Sign Up' button at the top of the page, and enter your email to register an account.

Answer questions about yourself and your past after creating your account. We will use your responses to put together your U.S. Visa Applicaton.

Make your payment in the 'Payment' page of the online portal when you are ready to submit your application. We accept all major credit cards.

After reviewing your entries in the My-Visa-USA application, we'll fill the real application for you. You'll just need to sign it and submit it.

If an interview is necessary (in some circumstances it is not), we'll schedule your interview for you at any United States Embassy worldwide that you choose.

Assuming you have had a successful application process, which 9/10 applicants do, you'll receive your visa and be ready to travel to the United States!

Create an Account

Enter your information in the portal

Make Payment

Finalize Your Real Application

Attend Your Interview

Receive Your Visa

The Secure Route to Your Visa

Hear From Satistfied Customers

My-Visa-USA: Quick, Cheap, Easy United States Visa Application Service

Learn the ins and outs of the Visa Application process while you fill out the form in your native language. When you're finished, we'll ensure its accuracy and assist you in signing and sending your official application.

Start Your Visa Journey Today: Use Our Guided Service

An expert visa consultant reviews every part of your application before submission. You'll get assistance with difficult sections, preparing necessary documents, interview preparation, and more.

With My-Visa-USA, you have access to expert visa consultants and immigration consultants. We know the system well and will help you avoid mistakes and problems applying for the U.S. Visa

Don't bother with the hassle of filling tedious government forms in a foreign langugae. With our easy-to-use system, just answer some questions about yourself and handle putting together your official application. 

Our team is available to you 7 days a weeks. Reach out to a friendly customer service representative with any questions you may have.

Personalized Assistance

An Experienced Team

Easy-To-Use Tools

Professional Customer Service

US Visa & Immigration Blog

Immigration Resources

US Visa & Immigration News

Visa, TPS, and Humanitarian Parole services coming soon!

Enter your email address below to receive the latest news and updates from us. We will keep you updated any news, updates, or changes in the Visa application process.