Marriage-based immigrant visas allow the foreign spouse of a U.S. citizen (IR-1/CR-1) or permanent resident (F2A) to obtain lawful status through a bona fide marriage.
The couple must show a valid, bona fide marriage through evidence such as joint finances, shared residence, photos, and affidavits from friends and family. Marriages under two years old at approval result in conditional (CR-1) residency, requiring the couple to later file Form I-751 to remove conditions.
The U.S. citizen or permanent resident spouse files Form I-130; once approved, the beneficiary completes either adjustment of status (I-485) if in the U.S., or immigrant visa processing through the National Visa Center and a U.S. consulate abroad.
Processing timelines vary significantly - I-130 approval alone can take roughly a year, followed by several more months for adjustment of status or consular processing.
This overview is for general information only and is not legal advice. Current forms, fees, and eligibility rules should always be confirmed against official USCIS and U.S. Department of State guidance, or with one of our attorneys, before filing.
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