If both partners currently live in the US

The first step is for the non-US citizen partner to become a lawful, permanent resident through “adjustment of status” which allows them to begin the process of changing their temporary visa status to green card status. 

If one partner is in the US and the other partner is outside the US

There are two options in this instance. 

The first option is to go through a process called “Consular Processing”, which means that the couple can get married outside the US, and the non-US citizen partner must then apply for a green card at a US consulate or embassy in that specific country. 

When going through this process, both partners must file Form l-130 and Form DS-160, and the non US-citizen partner must undergo a medical exam and have an interview at a U.S consulate or embassy. 

The second option is for the non-US citizen partner to travel to the US on a K-1 visa, (also known as a fiance visa).The couple is then permitted to marry in the US, and the non-US citizen partner can then change to a green card status once the wedding has taken place.

What happens when a foreigner marries an American?

Once the marriage has been established and the green card process is underway, the US citizen partner immediately becomes the foreigner's application ‘sponsor’.

There are two separate processes depending on the status of the US sponsor. 

If the foreigner is marrying a natural-born US citizen:

The good news is that this process tends to be fairly quick as immigation law considers spouses of US citizens to be ‘immediate relatives’, and therefore, visa numbers are automatically made available. 

The concurrent filing method is available in this situation, which means the Form l-130 and Form I-485 can be filed at the same time, and covers the full application process and also arranges a biometrics appointment and the in-person interview. 

The USCIS also gives a certain level of grace to foreigners waiting for their applications to go through.Therefore, should the foreigner lose their visa status throughout the process, the USCIS will not consider this a violation due to the sponsor being a natural-born US citizen. 

If the foreigner is marrying a permanent resident / green card holder:

For foreigners marrying a green card holder, the process is slightly different and a separate set of rules do apply. 

Foreigners gaining residency through a green card holder will need to file their application through the l-485 form and wait until a visa number is ready until they can adjust their status in the US. 

It is important to  understand that this process can often take longer as a result of the sponsor being on a green card, and that a valid visa status must be required all the way up until the visa number is made available. 

What documents do you need to marry a US-citizen?

Depending on the category that the applicants fall under, there are different document requirements however generally the below is required for all applications: 

• Original birth certificate of each individual
• Original copy of the marriage certificate
• Documents confirming financial income 
• Police clearance certificate
• Sponsor’s US citizenship or proof of permanent residence
• Proof of lawful US entry and status
• Medical examination documents 
• Current or expired US visas
• Proof of termination of any prior marriages, if applicable
• Military records, if applicable

If you need help with translating your documents for this process, I’d love to help. You can quickly upload your documents via my website and get a quote in 24-48 hours.

How long does it typically take to marry a non-US citizen?

This process can definitely take some time, so it's important to be aware of that before it begins. It is recommended to allow up to two years for the full application process to be completed. 

If English isn't your first language, understanding what may need to be translated or interpreted can make the process a whole lot quicker too!

I put together this helpful article on potential translation requirements when immigrating to the US. Go ahead, have a read and see whether any of these requirements will be applicable to you. 

Although going through this process can often seem stressful and daunting, that doesn't mean that it has to be. 

Let’s celebrate your future marriage in the US to a non citizen and make it a hassle free process!

Moving to the US is one of the most exciting experiences a person can have, and working with a professional to guide you through the tricky translations you may need can take some stress off your shoulders. 

I’d love to have your back and ensure the process is as smooth as possible, so that you can focus on the fun parts like planning your dream wedding! 

Just upload your documents here and request a custom quote. I’m looking forward to meeting you and helping you begin your journey in the US!