So you’ve found the one—and they just happen to be from another country. Congratulations! 🎉 But before you start planning your Pinterest-perfect wedding, there’s something you’ll need to deal with first: immigration law in an international marriage.
Whether your partner is visiting on a tourist visa or still overseas, getting legally married in the United States to a foreign national involves more than just picking a venue and saying “I do.” Here’s your no-stress, lawyer-approved roadmap to tying the knot in the U.S.
🗺️ Step 1: Choose the Right Visa — K-1 or CR-1?
Before marriage, your foreign fiancé(e) needs to be in the U.S. legally. The two main options are:
💍 K-1 Fiancé(e) Visa
This visa allows your partner to enter the U.S. for the purpose of marriage, but there’s a catch:
- You must marry within 90 days of their arrival.
- After marriage, your spouse can apply for a green card through adjustment of status.
👉 Learn more about the K-1 visa process from the U.S. Department of State.
🏠 CR-1 Spouse Visa
Already married? The CR-1 lets your foreign spouse enter the U.S. as a permanent resident.
- The process takes longer than the K-1 visa, but it skips adjustment of status.
- Ideal if you married abroad and want your spouse to join you in the U.S.
📝 Step 2: File the Right Forms
Here’s where the legal paperwork begins. Depending on the visa, you’ll need to file:
- For a K-1 Visa: File Form I-129F (Petition for Alien Fiancé(e)) with USCIS.
- For a CR-1 Visa: File Form I-130 (Petition for Alien Relative).
💡 Pro Tip: Double-check eligibility. You must be a U.S. citizen (not just a green card holder) to sponsor a K-1 visa.
💒 Step 3: Say “I Do” — the Legal Way
Once your fiancé(e) enters the U.S. on a K-1 visa, it’s wedding time! Just make sure your ceremony is:
- Legally binding in your state
- Within the 90-day window
- Accompanied by a marriage license and certified documentation
Even if you plan a big celebration later, the legal ceremony must happen before the visa expires.
🛂 Step 4: Apply for a Green Card
After the wedding, the foreign spouse must apply for a green card to remain in the U.S. legally.
They’ll file:
- Form I-485 (Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status)
- Along with other forms like I-864 (Affidavit of Support) and I-693 (Medical Exam)
👉 USCIS has a handy green card process guide.
This process includes biometrics, an interview, and sometimes more documentation—so working with an experienced immigration attorney helps avoid costly delays.
🔄 Step 5: Conditions, Timelines, and What’s Next
After approval, your spouse will get a conditional green card (valid for 2 years if you’ve been married less than that). You’ll need to:
- File Form I-751 (Petition to Remove Conditions) 90 days before it expires.
After that? Your spouse can:
- Apply for U.S. citizenship after 3 years of permanent residency (if still married to a U.S. citizen).
👩⚖️ Should You Hire an Immigration Attorney?
Yes—this process involves tight deadlines, strict documentation, and major life changes. A skilled attorney can:
- Help avoid common visa denials
- Ensure your paperwork is complete
- Represent you if complications arise (like overstays or prior visa issues)
We’ve helped countless couples navigate this process with clarity and compassion. Contact our firm for a consultation today.
❤️ Real Love Meets Real Law
Falling in love is the easy part—immigration law, not so much. But with the right steps, a little patience, and the right legal guidance, you can build your future together right here in the U.S.
So go ahead—plan that first dance, pick your playlist, and let us handle the paperwork.
