Gainesville, GA Marriage-Based Green Cards Lawyer

Are you and your spouse dreaming of building a life together in the U.S.? You’re not alone. Countless couples have walked the path you’re on, filled with hope, love—and lots of paperwork. We get it.

A marriage-based green card gives you the right to live and work permanently in the U.S., ensuring you and your spouse can build a future together without worrying about separation. It’s the key to unlocking your new life.

But the immigration system can feel overwhelming, especially with so much at stake. Here’s the good news: at Holden Law Firm, we’re in your corner, ready to guide you every step of the way to make your dreams a reality.

Do You Meet the Marriage Green Card Requirements?

While love knows no borders, immigration law has some rules. To qualify for a marriage-based green card, you need to check a few boxes:

• Legally married to a U.S. citizen or green card holder
• Ready to prove your love is the real deal
• Squeaky clean background (don’t worry, we can help if there are some bumps!)
• Financially stable household that meets minimum income requirements
• Lawfully entered the U.S. (if you’re applying from within the country)

If you’re nodding your head, yes, you’re on the right track. Different types of marriage green cards—like CR1, IR1, and K3 visas—fit various situations, and we’ll help determine the best route for you.

Steps to Apply for a Marriage Green Card

Here’s a step-by-step look at what to expect in the marriage-based green card process:

1. File Form I-130 to establish your relationship
2. Submit Form I-485 or DS-260 to apply for your green card
3. Attend your biometrics appointment to verify your identity
4. Prep for your interview to share your love story
5. Check your mailbox for that life-changing approval notice!

The process looks a bit different depending on whether you’re applying from within the U.S. or abroad and if you currently have another visa. No worries, though—we’ll create a personalized plan tailored to your unique situation.

How to Prove You Have a ‘Bona Fide Marriage’ for U.S. Immigration

Your green card application should showcase your authentic relationship. You’ll need to gather documents like:

• Your passports and birth certificates
• The marriage certificate that made it official
• Joint bank statements and utility bills
• Proof of your U.S. spouse’s citizenship or residency
• Photos, love letters, and other evidence of your genuine bond
• Background checks and medical exams

We’ll help ensure your application package is thorough and persuasive.

What’s the Typical Marriage Green Card Timeline?

Currently, marriage green card processing in Georgia averages between a few months to a year or more, but every couple’s timeline is unique. Factors like USCIS workload, application completeness, and response times can affect how long it takes to reach your goal.

Here’s a look at the typical timeline:

• I-130 Processing: 7-10 months
• I-485 Processing: 8-14 months
• Biometrics Appointment: Scheduled 3-5 weeks after filing
• Interview Scheduling: 2-4 months after application review
• Approval Notice: Usually within 2 weeks post-interview

Note: Processing times for marriage-based green cards can change frequently based on USCIS workload and other factors. For the most up-to-date timelines, check the USCIS Processing Times tool. While the averages listed here provide a general idea, your case may move faster or slower depending on individual circumstances.

Marriage Green Card Cost: Investing in Your Future

The total government fees for a marriage green card range from $1,760 to $2,830, including filing forms like I-130, I-485, biometrics, and I-751 (if needed). Other potential costs include medical exams, translations, photos, travel, and legal fees. It’s an investment in your future together.

What to Expect at Your Marriage Green Card Interview

At your green card interview, you’ll have the opportunity to share your love story with a USCIS officer. They’ll want to hear details about your relationship, daily life, and plans for the future.

You can expect:

1. Questions About Your Relationship – Expect questions about how you met, your daily life, major life events, and future plans as a couple.
2. Document Verification – Bring original copies of your supporting documents (marriage certificate, joint financial records, photos, etc.). The officer may ask for additional proof of your relationship.
3. Clarification of Any Issues – If there are inconsistencies in your application or red flags, the officer may ask follow-up questions to address them.
4. Oath & Signatures – You will be placed under oath, and both spouses may need to sign statements confirming the truthfulness of your answers.
5. Possible Decision on the Spot – Some applicants receive approval at the end of the interview, but others may need to wait for a mailed decision.
6. Request for Additional Evidence (If Needed) – If more documents are required, USCIS may issue a Request for Evidence (RFE), which must be responded to promptly.
7. Green Card Approval & Next Steps – If approved, you’ll receive your green card in the mail within a few weeks. If further review is needed, USCIS will notify you of the next steps.

Common Marriage Green Card Challenges and How to Overcome Them

The green card process can involve some challenges, like documenting a genuine marriage, meeting financial requirements, addressing past immigration issues, and navigating complex family situations. If USCIS requests more evidence, respond promptly and thoroughly. We’ll help you build a strong case.

Marriage Green Card vs. Other Paths to Permanent Residence

When it comes to pursuing permanent residence, there are several paths to consider. Here’s how the marriage green card compares:

Green Card Type	Eligibility	Timeline	Cost
Marriage-Based	Spouse of U.S. citizen/LPR	9-13 months	$1,760 – $2,830
Employment-Based	Job offer/special qualifications	1-3+ years	$1,045 – $6,465
Family-Sponsored	Close relatives of U.S. citizens/LPRs	2-20+ years	$535 – $820
Diversity Visa	Selected in annual lottery	1-2 years	$330 – $1,220

Why Trust Holden Law Firm with Your Happily Ever After?

Attorney Giovanna Holden isn’t just an experienced immigration lawyer—she’s walked in your shoes. As an immigrant herself, she understands the challenges you’re facing on a personal level.

When you work with our team, you’ll get:

• An attorney who is personally invested in your success
• Bilingual help in English and Spanish
• A proven track record of turning “I do” into “I can stay”
• Transparent communication every step of the way
• Meticulous attention to detail for a strong application
• Insider knowledge of the Atlanta USCIS field office

Take the Leap, We’ve Got You

You have the power to turn your dreams into reality. At Holden Law Firm, we believe in your love story, and we’ll fight to help you achieve your goals. Take the first step today by calling to schedule a consultation at our convenient Gainesville office. Your new life together awaits.

This page is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for individualized legal advice. Immigration law is complex, and every case is unique, so be sure to consult with a qualified immigration attorney about your case.