The procedural aspects to file a green card application through marriage depends on if the foreign national will “adjust status” in the U.S., which usually means he or she will attend an interview in the U.S. or, in the alternative, go the U.S. Embassy in their home country to file and pick up an Immigrant Visa and return with that Visa.
The adjustment of status application for a green card includes the I-485 and I-131 forms, which are accompanied by a host of other forms and required documentation. Once the case has been received by USCIS and is accepted, the foreign national will have his or her fingerprints taken and digital photo taken. This is called a biometric appointment and usually takes place at a local Application Support Center rather than a USCIS office where interviews actually take place.
The U.S. citizen spouse and foreign national are usually interviewed at the USCIS field office governing his or her residence. Sometimes the location is within commuting distance but, occasionally, it may be a few hours away due to the way the jurisdiction is divided.
During the interview, the couple are both interviewed about the information in their forms and filings, and more generally on whether their marriage is legitimate and bona fide.
After the interview, if the case is eventually approved, the couple will receive a series of approval notices and the green card in the mail.
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