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    From Visitor to Permanent Resident: How to Transition from a Nonimmigrant Visa to a Green Card

    MusaBy No Comments5 Mins Read
    Waist up of smiling girl is making photo with her young parents in green park

    How to Change Your Immigration Status From F-1 to a Marriage Green Card

    Changing status from F-1 to a marriage green card involves a series of steps to transition from a temporary nonimmigrant status to permanent residency in the United States. Here’s a general overview of how to navigate this process:

    1. Marry a U.S. Citizen:
    • The first step is to get married to a U.S. citizen. This serves as the basis for your eligibility to apply for a marriage-based green card.
    1. Determine Eligibility:
    • Ensure that you meet all the eligibility criteria for adjusting your status to a lawful permanent resident (green card holder) through marriage. This includes being legally married, having entered the marriage in good faith, and not having any immigration violations that could bar your eligibility.
    1. File Form I-485:
    • Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status, is used to apply for a green card while remaining in the U.S. Complete and submit this form to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
    1. Include Supporting Documents:
    • Along with Form I-485, include all required supporting documents. These may include:
      • Passport-style photographs.
      • Birth certificates (yours and your spouse’s).
      • Marriage certificate.
      • Police clearance certificates.
      • Medical examination results.
      • Form I-864, Affidavit of Support, from your spouse.
      • Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization (optional, but recommended).
      • Form I-131, Application for Travel Document (optional).
    1. Attend Biometrics Appointment:
    • After submitting your application, you’ll receive a notice for a biometrics appointment. Attend the appointment to provide fingerprints, photographs, and other biographical information.
    1. Attend Adjustment of Status Interview:
    • USCIS will schedule an adjustment of status interview for you and your spouse. During the interview, you’ll be asked questions about your relationship and eligibility. Be prepared to provide evidence of the authenticity of your marriage.
    1. Await USCIS Decision:
    • USCIS will review your application and supporting documents. If your application is approved, you’ll receive your green card in the mail. If additional information or documents are needed, USCIS will issue a Request for Evidence (RFE).
    1. Update Information (if needed):
    • If you change your address while your application is pending, make sure to update your information with USCIS using Form AR-11.
    1. Exercise Caution and Patience:
    • The process can take several months, and it’s important to exercise patience. Avoid traveling outside the U.S. while your application is pending, as doing so could result in abandonment of your application.
    1. Seek Legal Assistance (if needed):
    • If you’re unsure about any aspect of the process or encounter challenges, consider seeking guidance from an immigration attorney who can provide personalized advice based on your situation.

    Remember that each case is unique, and the process might vary based on individual circumstances. It’s crucial to follow USCIS instructions, maintain open communication, and provide accurate and complete information throughout the process.

    How to Change Status from B-1/B-2 to a Marriage Green Card

    Changing status from  B-1/ B-2 to a marriage green card involves transitioning from a temporary nonimmigrant status to permanent residency in the United States. Here’s a general overview of how to navigate this process:

    1. Marry a U.S. Citizen:
    • The first step is to get married to a U.S. citizen. This serves as the basis for your eligibility to apply for a marriage-based green card.
    1. Determine Eligibility:
    • Ensure that you meet all the eligibility criteria for adjusting your status to a lawful permanent resident (green card holder) through marriage. This includes being legally married, having entered the marriage in good faith, and not having any immigration violations that could bar your eligibility.
    1. File Form I-485:
    • Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status, is used to apply for a green card while remaining in the U.S. Complete and submit this form to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
    1. Include Supporting Documents:
    • Along with Form I-485, include all required supporting documents. These may include:
      • Passport-style photographs.
      • Birth certificates (yours and your spouse’s).
      • Marriage certificate.
      • Police clearance certificates.
      • Medical examination results.
      • Form I-864, Affidavit of Support, from your spouse.
      • Form I-693, Report of Medical Examination and Vaccination Record.
      • Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization (optional, but recommended).
      • Form I-131, Application for Travel Document (optional).
    1. Attend Biometrics Appointment:
    • After submitting your application, you’ll receive a notice for a biometrics appointment. Attend the appointment to provide fingerprints, photographs, and other biographical information.
    1. Attend Adjustment of Status Interview:
    • USCIS will schedule an adjustment of status interview for you and your spouse. During the interview, you’ll be asked questions about your relationship and eligibility. Be prepared to provide evidence of the authenticity of your marriage.
    1. Await USCIS Decision:
    • USCIS will review your application and supporting documents. If your application is approved, you’ll receive your green card in the mail. If additional information or documents are needed, USCIS will issue a Request for Evidence (RFE).
    1. Update Information (if needed):
    • If you change your address while your application is pending, make sure to update your information with USCIS using Form AR-11.
    1. Exercise Caution and Patience:
    • The process can take several months, and it’s important to exercise patience. Avoid traveling outside the U.S. while your application is pending, as doing so could result in abandonment of your application.
    1. Seek Legal Assistance (if needed):
    • If you’re unsure about any aspect of the process or encounter challenges, consider seeking guidance from an immigration attorney who can provide personalized advice based on your situation.

    Remember that each case is unique, and the process might vary based on individual circumstances. It’s crucial to follow USCIS instructions, maintain open communication, and provide accurate and complete information throughout the process.

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