The application process will vary depending on if you were married in the U.S. or a foreign country, how the immigrant entered the U.S., and what immigration status the sponsor spouse holds. In all cases you will need to fill out multiple forms and submit personal documents to the USCIS. Any document written in a foreign language must have a translation attached. Can the Immigrant Spouse Legally Work in the U.S?
Once your application has been approved you will receive a work permit as part of your conditional permanent residence. If you wish to work in the U.S. while your application is being processed you must file form I-765, called an Application for Employment Authorization. Spouses seeking adjustment of status to a legal permanent resident should file as category (c) (9). The filing fee is $175. Processing times vary, but you should get your temporary work visa in about three months. What if I Can¿t Pay the Fees?
You may qualify for a waiver of fees if the BCIS determines that you are unable to pay the fees, but be aware that the sponsor spouse must meet minimum income requirements in order to sponsor the immigrant. What if I Intentionally Gave False Information on my Visa Application?
If you intentionally gave misleading or false information on your application, or if you entered into the marriage only to obtain a visa and evade U.S. immigration laws (and not for love), you may be subject to five years in prison if convicted. Can I Check the Status of my Application?
You may check the status of your application online at the USCIS website or you may call their toll free number. What are the Income Requirements for the Sponsor Spouse? - Marriage within the U.S., after a legal entry (visa, or visa waiver), to an American citizen
- Marriage within the U.S., after an illegal entry, to an American Citizen
- Marriage within the U.S., to a lawful permanent resident (not a citizen) who is living in the U.S.
- Marriage in a foreign nation (not the U.S.), to an American Citizen who is living abroad
- Marriage in a foreign nation, to an American Citizen who is living in the U.S.
- Engaged to an American citizen who is living in the U.S.; Fiancé is living abroad
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