Q: I am a U.S. citizen. If I marry someone outside the U.S.A., how can I bring her to the U.S.A? I am a man.
A: If you marry a US Citizen outside the US, you can return to the US and file a spousal petition where your wife would process at the US Consulate in her country. The process involves filing multiple forms and documents and processing speed could last anywhere from 6 months to 18 months.
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A:
To bring your spouse to the U.S., you'll need to follow a few steps. First, after your marriage, you must file Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative, with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). This form establishes the relationship between you and your spouse.
Once the I-130 is approved, the process will depend on whether your spouse is in the U.S. or abroad. If abroad, your spouse will need to go through consular processing, which involves submitting additional forms and attending an interview at a U.S. embassy or consulate. If your spouse is already in the U.S., they may be eligible to adjust their status by filing Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status.
Throughout this process, be prepared to provide various documents such as your marriage certificate, proof of your U.S. citizenship, and evidence of a bona fide marriage. It’s important to follow the instructions carefully to ensure a smooth process.
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