Marriage

Permanent residence based on marriage

USCIS issued a Policy Memorandum on May 21, 2026 with guidance on consular processing versus adjustment of status of the I-485 application. OIS recommends that you work with an immigration attorney to understand how this policy memo may impact your I-485 application.

If you marry a U.S. citizen, you may be eligible to apply to become a permanent resident and get a green card.

You will apply to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services. You may prepare your application before you get married, but you must provide proof of your marriage as part of the application process.

How to apply

The application for permanent residence based on marriage has many components. This application is a self-petition. OIS can provide general information to you about the process.

Please note: You will need to provide a separate payment of $1440 for each applicant, including a $950 fee for each child under 14 who is filing with a parent. USCIS no longer accepts paper checks for payment of immigration-related petition fees. You may pay by credit card via Form G-1450. Staple a separate Form G-1450 to each I-485 form.

Please check the Form I-485 instructions to confirm the fee amount before mailing.

Learn how to apply