Can You Become A U.S. Citizen By Marriage?

by | Last updated on January 24, 2024

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You may be eligible to apply for U.S. () if for at least the past 3 years you have been a green card holder (permanent resident) through marriage to an American citizen and have lived in the United States the entire time.

What happens if you marry an American citizen?

After you marry a U.S. citizen, you can apply for a green card . While USCIS is processing your application, you can apply for “advance parole,” which gives you permission to travel. Unless you have an emergency situation, USCIS will take two to three months to process your parole.

Do you become a US citizen if you marry a US citizen?

If you marry a U.S, citizen, you won't be eligible for U.S. citizenship right away . But you might become eligible for a U.S. green card, which can lead to U.S. citizenship. ... But you might become eligible for a U.S. green card, which can lead to U.S. citizenship.

How long does it take to get U.S. citizenship after marrying a U.S. citizen?

As a permanent resident who is married to a U.S. citizen, you may be eligible for naturalization after just three years . This is a significant benefit (as it normally requires five years as a permanent resident before applying for citizenship).

Is it easier to become a citizen if you marry a citizen?

USCIS does not require you to apply for citizenship based on the marriage. Generally, it is easier to prepare an application when applying for citizenship based on five years as a permanent resident.

How much does it cost to become a US citizen through marriage?

The cost involved with obtaining a green card through marriage varies depending on your age and immigration circumstances. The USCIS lists the green card fee cost as: $535 for the I-130 petition . $85 biometrics services fee .

Can an Indian marry an American?

According to information provided by the U.S. consulate, valid Indian marriages can take the form of either a religious or a civil ceremony . Some, but not all religious ceremonies will lead to a certificate that is considered sufficient for U.S. immigration and other legal purposes.

How long do you have to stay married for green card?

USCIS will issue you a conditional Marriage Green Card if you have been married for less than 2 years at the time of your interview. You can apply for a permanent Marriage Green Card after two years of marriage. Check out this article for more information on how to apply for a Marriage Green Card.

Can I lose my citizenship if I divorce?

If you get a divorce during this time, you will have to wait five years instead of three to file for citizenship. After five years, divorce does not affect your eligibility because eligibility does not depend on marriage. The USCIS will not automatically assume that divorce equals a false marriage.

How hard is it to become a US citizen?

The chances to become a United States citizen depend mainly on how tricky it is for you to first become a permanent resident and get a green card. If you're extremely educated and can find work, you can expect to get citizenship in just over 5 years after becoming a green card owner.

Can I lose my green card if I get divorced?

Green card holders are usually unaffected by a divorce when they file another application or petition with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services if they are already a lawful permanent resident with a 10-year green card. There is usually no reason for USCIS to reevaluate your petition after a divorce.

How long does it take to become a U.S. citizen?

Currently, it takes about six months to a year to get U.S. citizenship from the time you apply. The process starts when you first get your green card, but there's no accurate way to tell how long each application will take. Your unique circumstances will determine your application status.

Can a British citizen marry an American?

American citizenship is not affected in any way by marrying a UK national. You will not lose your American citizenship, however nor will you automatically acquire British citizenship simply by marrying a British citizen.

How much does it cost to become a U.S. citizen in 2020?

What are the Citizenship by Naturalization fees? As of 10/14/2020, $725 is the current fee to become a U.S. citizen. This total includes a $640 fee for processing the Form N-400 and an $85 biometric services fee. Both the filing fee and the biometrics fee are non-refundable.

How much does a fiance green card cost?

The U.S. citizen partner completes the appropriate government form (I-129F – “petition for a K-1 Visa”), and mails it to United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), along with the $535 filing fee.

Can you work after marrying a U.S. citizen?

Those who are not already working legally in the United States when they marry a U.S. citizen or green card holder will need to apply for a work permit , also called employment authorization document (EAD, see sample below).

Maria LaPaige
Author
Maria LaPaige
Maria is a parenting expert and mother of three. She has written several books on parenting and child development, and has been featured in various parenting magazines. Maria's practical approach to family life has helped many parents navigate the ups and downs of raising children.