How long does it take to get your spouse a green card if they live overseas?

The processing time for a green card for a spouse who lives overseas can vary depending on several factors, such as the country of origin, the complexity of the case, and the current processing times at the USCIS and U.S. consulate or embassy where the application will be processed.

Typically, the process involves filing an I-130 petition for Alien Relative with the USCIS, followed by consular processing through the National Visa Center (NVC) and an interview at the U.S. consulate or embassy in the spouse's home country. The entire process can take anywhere from several months to over a year or more.

As of April 2023, the USCIS processing time for an I-130 petition for a spouse is around 8-11 months, while the NVC processing time for an immigrant visa application is around 3-6 months. However, these processing times can change and vary depending on the workload and priorities of the USCIS and the U.S. Department of State.

It is important to note that the process can be complex, and any mistakes or omissions in the application can cause delays or even a denial of the green card application.

In Mexico we are seeing about 2.5 years as well as the Philippines as they are impacted and still challenged from the back log of Covid. The other countries are still taking 6-12 months after the NVC approves the documents.

At US Immigration Consultants we can assist in the consular process with the forms or overall process.

Call us at 855-963-0988 if you have any questions and would like to employ our services.