Understanding the Marriage Green Card Process in Washington D.C.

The United States immigration system was built, in part, on the principle of keeping families together. For married couples, obtaining a marriage-based green card allows foreign spouses to live and work in the U.S. permanently. But the process can be complex, and even a small mistake can cause significant delays.

If you and your spouse are beginning this journey, Lacki & Company, LLC is here to guide you through each step. Our Washington D.C. immigration attorneys help couples understand their options, prepare accurate applications, and navigate the U.S. immigration system with confidence.

Step 1: Determine Eligibility for a Marriage Green Card

The first step is confirming that your marriage meets U.S. immigration requirements. The marriage must be legally valid and recognized in the country or state where it took place. Additionally, it must be bona fide—meaning it was entered into for love and commitment, not solely for immigration purposes.

At Lacki & Company, we help clients gather the right documentation to establish that their marriage is genuine, including financial records, shared leases, photos, and affidavits from friends and family. This preparation is key to avoiding unnecessary scrutiny or denials later in the process.

Step 2: File the Correct Immigration Forms

The foundation of a marriage-based green card application begins with Form I-130 (Petition for Alien Relative). This form establishes the relationship between the U.S. citizen or permanent resident and their foreign spouse.

If the spouse is already living in the U.S., they may also file Form I-485 (Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status) at the same time. If the spouse lives abroad, the process typically continues through consular processing at a U.S. embassy or consulate in their home country.

Lacki & Company assists couples in ensuring that these forms are completed correctly and supported by clear, compelling evidence. Proper preparation at this stage helps prevent costly delays and requests for additional information from U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).

Step 3: Attend the Marriage Green Card Interview

Once the forms are submitted and reviewed, the couple will be scheduled for an immigration interview. During this meeting, USCIS officers will ask questions about your relationship, history, and daily life to verify that the marriage is genuine.

This step can feel stressful, but it doesn’t have to be. Our attorneys at Lacki & Company prepare clients for what to expect, review likely interview questions, and ensure all required documents are ready and organized. With preparation and legal guidance, the interview can go smoothly and confidently.

Step 4: Receive a Decision and Conditional Residency

If your marriage is less than two years old at the time of approval, the foreign spouse will receive a conditional green card valid for two years. After this period, the couple must jointly file Form I-751 (Petition to Remove Conditions on Residence) to obtain permanent residency.

Lacki & Company helps couples track important deadlines and submit the necessary filings on time, ensuring uninterrupted residency status.

Step 5: Move Toward Permanent Residency and Citizenship

After the conditional period, permanent residency is typically granted for ten years and can be renewed indefinitely. Many green card holders later choose to apply for U.S. citizenship through naturalization.

Our immigration attorneys assist with every stage of this process—from initial marriage petitions to permanent residency and beyond—helping couples plan their long-term future in the United States.

Why Work with Lacki & Company, LLC

The marriage green card process can feel overwhelming, but with the right legal team, it becomes much more manageable. At Lacki & Company, LLC, we provide clear communication, detailed preparation, and personalized legal strategies for couples in Washington D.C. and beyond.

Our goal is simple: to help families reunite and build a secure future together in the United States. Whether you’re just starting your application or need assistance resolving a delay, we’re here to help every step of the way.

Begin Your Marriage Green Card Journey Today

If you’re ready to start the marriage green card process, don’t navigate it alone. Lacki & Company, LLC provides comprehensive support to ensure your application is accurate, complete, and timely.

Call (301) 888-7451 to schedule a consultation with a Washington D.C. marriage immigration lawyer, or visit www.lackico.com to learn more about how we can help you bring your spouse to the United States.