If you have recently married a U.S. citizen or green card holder and are looking to adjust your immigration status, a marriage-based green card may be your best path forward. But the process can be confusing, and that is where a Queens immigration attorney can make all the difference.
Understanding the Marriage-Based Green Card
This type of green card allows a foreign national married to a U.S. citizen or permanent resident to live and work legally in the United States. The process involves proving that your marriage is real (not just for immigration purposes), filing several forms with USCIS, and attending an in-person interview.
Why Legal Help Matters
While it may seem straightforward on paper, applying for a green card through marriage comes with a lot of pressure. Mistakes or incomplete forms can delay or even derail your application. A Queens-based immigration lawyer can help you:
- Determine your eligibility and which route applies to your situation (adjustment of status vs. consular processing).
- Prepare and review all required documentation, including Form I-130 and I-485.
- Compile the right evidence to prove your marriage is genuine (photos, joint accounts, affidavits, etc.).
- Prepare you for the marriage interview so you know what to expect.
- Respond quickly to any requests for evidence (RFEs) from USCIS.
Local Advantage
Queens immigration lawyers often handle multiple marriage-based green card cases every month. They understand how local USCIS offices operate, what documentation is most effective, and how to manage timeline expectations. This familiarity can lead to faster, smoother approvals.
Help for Complex Situations
If your spouse has a prior immigration violation, you are undocumented, or your application was previously denied, working with an experienced attorney becomes even more critical. They can develop a strategic plan, apply for waivers if needed, and represent you if things become complicated.
It’s Not Just Paperwork. It’s Your Future
A marriage-based green card is one of the most common paths to permanent residency, but it’s also one of the most scrutinized. With the support of a Queens immigration lawyer, you gain peace of mind and increase your chances of approval.
