← All routes

1. 1.Petition for Alien Relative

   8 mo - 1 yr 8 mo

   I-130

   U.S. citizen or permanent resident files I-130 to establish the qualifying family relationship.

   Tip: Immediate relatives of U.S. citizens have no visa number wait. Gather marriage certificates, birth certificates, and evidence of relationship.

2. 2.NVC processing

   2 mo - 6 mo

   National Visa Center collects documents and fees after I-130 approval.

   Tip: Respond to NVC promptly. Submit DS-260 online. Pay immigrant visa fee and affidavit of support fee early.

3. 3.Adjustment of status / consular processing

   6 mo - 1 yr 2 mo

   I-485

   File I-485 if in the U.S., or attend consular interview if abroad.

   Tip: If adjusting status in the U.S., you can file I-765 and I-131 with the I-485 - each has its own fee since April 1, 2024. For consular processing, prepare for embassy interview.

4. 4.Interview

   1 mo - 2 mo

   Interview at USCIS field office or U.S. embassy/consulate.

   Tip: Both petitioner and beneficiary should attend. Bring evidence of bona fide relationship (photos, financial documents, communications).

5. 5.Approval and card

   0 mo - 1 mo

   Case approved. Green card produced and mailed or immigrant visa issued.

   Tip: Conditional green card (2-year) issued for marriages under 2 years. File I-751 to remove conditions before expiration.

These durations are typical ranges, not promises - USCIS publishes its own current times, and yours may differ in either direction. Nothing here is legal advice.