Are you currently in a marriage with a US citizen or lawful permanent resident, or do you have plans to marry one in the near future? If this applies to you, it’s essential to understand that you may be eligible for a green card based on your marriage to a US citizen or lawful permanent resident. Within this guide, we will provide a comprehensive overview of the process for obtaining a US green card through marriage, including all the essential information you need to know. As the spouse of a US citizen or permanent resident, you are eligible to apply for your green card. The basic idea is that through a valid and legitimate marriage to a US citizen or permanent resident, you may qualify for a green card. To get a green card through marriage, your US citizen or US permanent resident spouse is required to file a Form I-130 on your behalf. Your spouse is the petitioner (person filing the petition) and you are the beneficiary (person benefitting from the petition). Having a green card allows you to live, work, travel in and out of the US, attend US schools, and eventually pursue US citizenship. However, obtaining a green card through marriage isn’t straightforward. It involves specific requirements and steps that must be followed meticulously. Failing to do so can lead to delays or, in the worst case, a denial of your case. The criteria for obtaining a green card through marriage differ slightly depending on whether you are marrying a US citizen or a US permanent resident. I’ll highlight these distinctions in this guide. There are multiple steps to getting your green card through marriage. Here’s a quick outline: Marry a US Citizen or Lawful Permanent Resident File Form I-130 Marriage Interview File for Adjustment of Status/Consular Processing Conditional Permanent Resident Status Removal of Condition to Become Unconditional Permanent Resident Naturalization (Optional) There are many documents that can be included with your petition for a green card through marriage. The documents that you include with your case will depend on your particular situation and the evidence that you have available based on your relationship. For example, if you’ve gone on vacation with your spouse, potential documents for you to include are pictures of you and your spouse together while on vacation. If you and your spouse have a child together, your child’s birth certificate should be included with your petition. All documents that are in a foreign language should be submitted along with a certified translation. Here is a general list of documents you should expect to provide for your green card through marriage case. This is a general list. Your immigration lawyer should review your case with you  and create a specific list of documents based on your particular case. Documentation from US Citizen or Lawful Permanent Resident Spouse Copy of Passport Copy of Form I-551 (Permanent Resident Card) Passport photos Income tax returns for last few years Proof that all prior marriages have been terminated

The DV program, also known as the Green Card Lottery, was established in 1990 to promote diversity in the immigrant population. The DV program, introduced as part of the Immigration Act of 1990, is a unique initiative designed to diversify the immigrant population in the United States. The program was signed into law by President George H.W. Bush. The program allocates a limited number of immigrant visas each year to individuals from countries with historically low levels of immigration to the United States. The Diversity Visa program has played a significant role in promoting diversity and inclusivity in the U.S. immigration landscape. Through its unique lottery-based selection process, the program has welcomed individuals from countries with historically low immigration rates, leading to a more diverse and culturally rich America. While it has faced challenges, the program remains an integral part of U.S. immigration policy, contributing to the nation’s economic and cultural vibrancy. This blog delves into the historical development of the DV program, its eligibility criteria, and its influence on U.S. immigration patterns. DV Program Eligibility Criteria Country of Eligibility: The DV program primarily targets countries with low rates of immigration to the United States, determined by a formula. Educational or Work Experience Requirements: Applicants must meet minimum educational or work experience criteria to qualify for the DV program. Random Selection Process: The DV program employs a randomized computer-based lottery system to select applicants who meet the eligibility criteria. The Evolution of the DV Program Changes Over Time: The DV program has seen various changes in eligibility criteria, application processes, and numerical limits on visas. Security Enhancements: In the post-9/11 era, the program underwent significant security enhancements to ensure the integrity of the selection process and scrutinize applicants more thoroughly. Impact on U.S. Immigration Diversity and Inclusion: The DV program has been a key driver in diversifying the U.S. immigrant population, contributing to a rich tapestry of cultures and backgrounds. Economic Contributions: DV program recipients have made substantial contributions to the U.S. economy, with many becoming entrepreneurs, professionals, and skilled workers. Cultural Enrichment: The DV program has brought about cultural enrichment, as recipients have added to the nation’s artistic, culinary, and intellectual landscape. Controversies and Challenges Fraud and Abuse: The DV program has faced challenges related to fraud and misuse, prompting the need for enhanced security measures. Political Debates: The DV program has been a subject of political debate, with some advocating for its expansion and others seeking its elimination.