Marriage Green Card Timeline: How Long Does It Take in 2025?

Nastarck Nastarck
Apr 3
3 min read

Thinking about applying for a Green Card through marriage? Whether you’ve already tied the knot or are just starting the process, one of the most common questions couples ask is:

“How long does it take to get a Marriage Green Card?”

The answer depends on a few key things—like whether your spouse is a U.S. citizen or green card holder, where you live, and how you’re applying. This guide breaks down the full Marriage Green Card timeline in 2025, with real expectations for each path.

What Is a Marriage-Based Green Card?

A Marriage Green Card allows the spouse of a U.S. citizen or green card holder to live and work permanently in the United States. It’s one of the most common paths to permanent residency—and one of the most carefully reviewed by U.S. immigration authorities.

Getting approved involves submitting forms, proving your relationship is real, attending interviews, and—yes—waiting.

Let’s walk through what that looks like.

Timeline If You're Married to a Green Card Holder

If your spouse is a permanent resident (not a U.S. citizen), the process takes longer. That’s because you’ll likely have to wait for a visa number to become available before you can even file Form I-485.

This waiting period is based on annual limits for green cards in this category—and can be months or even years, depending on demand.

How long does it take?

Average processing time: 22 to 36 months
This includes the wait for a current visa (according to the Visa Bulletin), followed by the adjustment process once you’re eligible.

Tip: Make sure to check the Visa Bulletin every month—it tells you when it’s your turn to move forward.

Timeline for Consular Processing (Living Outside the U.S.)

If you live outside the U.S., your case will be handled through consular processing. This is the most common route for couples who married abroad or if the foreign spouse hasn’t entered the U.S. yet.

Here’s how it works:

File Form I-130 with USCIS
Once approved, your case is sent to the National Visa Center (NVC)
Submit additional documents, pay fees, and schedule an interview at a U.S. embassy or consulate
Attend your visa interview and, if approved, receive your visa to enter the U.S.

How long does it take?

For spouses of U.S. citizens: 15 to 22 months
For spouses of green card holders: Up to 30+ months (depending on visa availability)

Note: You must wait for your visa category to become current before the NVC can schedule your interview.

Factors That Can Delay the Marriage Green Card Process

While the steps are fairly consistent, timelines vary due to:

✅ Relationship type (spouse of U.S. citizen vs. green card holder)

✅ Whether you’re applying from inside or outside the U.S.

✅ Visa number availability

✅ USCIS or consulate processing speed

✅ Backlogs in your local field office or U.S. embassy

✅ Missing or incorrect documents

✅ Requests for Evidence (RFEs)

Can You Speed It Up?

You can’t always control government wait times, but you can:

Submit a complete, mistake-free application
Use a reliable platform (like Top Green Card) that helps you avoid errors
Respond quickly to any RFEs or requests from USCIS
Monitor your visa status through the Visa Bulletin

Marriage Green Card Wait Time: Summary by Scenario

Applicant Type	Inside U.S. (Adjustment of Status)	Outside U.S. (Consular Processing)
Married to U.S. Citizen	8–14 months	15–22 months
Married to Green Card Holder	22–36 months	25–36+ months

Final Thoughts: Be Prepared, Stay Patient

The Marriage Green Card process can be time-consuming—but knowing what to expect helps. The more prepared and accurate your application is, the fewer delays you’ll face along the way.

If you’re starting this journey, Top Green Card can guide you step-by-step or handle the paperwork for you. Our platform helps you avoid common mistakes and submit with confidence.