Last Updated on January 15, 2025 by Linda Lee
Navigating the marriage-based green card process can be complex, but having an experienced immigration attorney on your side makes all the difference. If you’re in Chicago, Illinois, or anywhere in the U.S., our team at ILOLA is here to help. Our dedicated immigration attorneys bring extensive experience handling green card applications for couples nationwide, ensuring a smooth and efficient process.
Why Choose Us for Your Marriage Green Card in Chicago?
While local attorneys can offer convenience, choosing an immigration firm with nationwide expertise provides distinct advantages. Since U.S. immigration law is federal, working with an experienced firm that handles marriage green cards across different jurisdictions gives you a strategic edge.
What Sets ILOLA Apart?
- Proven Track Record – We have a 99% approval rating on marriage green cards.
- Remote Consultations – Flexible legal services designed to meet your needs.
- Personalized Legal Support – Every case is unique and we tailor our strategy to your needs.
- Comprehensive Case Preparation – From initial filing to USCIS interview prepping, we guide you every step of the way.
- Diverse Client Experience – Supporting couples from all backgrounds, including LGBTQ+ couples, cross-border marriages, and international clients.
What Is a Marriage Green Card?
A marriage green card allows the spouse of a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident to live and work permanently in the United States. The application process requires proving the legitimacy of the marriage and fulfilling the requirements set by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
How Our Chicago Immigration Attorneys Assist You
Step 1: Initial Consultation & Eligibility Assessment
- Determine the best application pathway (adjustment of status vs. consular processing).
- Discuss required documents and potential challenges.
- Provide a detailed overview of the process.
Step 2: Document Collection & Petition Filing
Our attorneys help you compile and organize all necessary evidence, including:
- Marriage documentation: marriage certificate, photos, proof of relationship.
- Financial proof: joint bank accounts, lease agreements, tax returns.
- Identity documents: passports, birth certificates, previous immigration records.
- Form I-130: Petition for Alien Relative submission.
Step 3: Adjustment of Status or Consular Processing
- If your spouse is already in the U.S., we handle the Form I-485, Adjustment of Status.
- If your spouse is abroad, we manage Form DS-260, Immigrant Visa Application through consular processing.
Step 4: Responding to USCIS Requests & Preparing for the Interview
- Address Requests for Evidence (RFEs) efficiently to avoid delays.
- Thoroughly prepare you for the green card interview.
- Ensure you are confident to demonstrate the legitimacy of your marriage.
Step 5: Green Card Approval & Next Steps
- Guidance on conditional vs. permanent residency.
- Support for future naturalization and removal of conditions on residency.
Why Chicago Couples Trust Our Law Firm
Immigration Expertise
Chicago has a rich and diverse immigrant community, and we understand the specific challenges couples face when applying for a marriage green card. Whether you’re dealing with long processing times at the USCIS Chicago Field Office or navigating complex legal situations, we ensure your case is handled with precision.
Support for International & Cross-Border Marriages
Are you married to someone living outside the U.S.? We guide you through consular processing, ensuring a smooth visa approval process.
LGBTQ+ Friendly Immigration Services
We proudly support LGBTQ+ couples seeking marriage-based green cards and provide inclusive legal representation tailored to your needs.
Start Your Chicago Marriage Green Card Process Today
If you’re ready to take the next step, schedule a consultation with our experienced marriage green card attorneys serving Chicago and nationwide. We are committed to making the process smooth, stress-free, and successful. Call us at (213) 375-4084 or fill out our contact form here.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I apply for a marriage green card if I’m in the U.S. on a tourist visa?
Yes, but there are specific legal considerations. If you entered the U.S. on a tourist visa with the intent to apply for a green card, it could raise red flags with USCIS. Our attorneys can guide you on the best approach to avoid complications.
What if my spouse and I have been married for less than two years?
If your marriage is less than two years old at the time of approval, you will receive a conditional green card, CR-1 visa, valid for two years. You will need to file Form I-751 (Petition to Remove Conditions on Residence) before the card expires to obtain permanent residency.
How can I prove my marriage is genuine?
Providing strong supporting documents is crucial. This includes joint financial records, shared property leases, travel records, photos, messages, and affidavits from family and friends attesting to your relationship. Our attorneys are highly experienced in gathering information to prove your marriage is legitimate.
Can I work while my marriage green card application is pending?
If you file for Adjustment of Status (Form I-485), you can apply for a work permit (EAD) and advance parole simultaneously, allowing you to work and travel while your case is processed. Please let our attorney know if this is something you are interested in during your consultation.
Success Stories
We initially hired Winston/Linda and team ten years ago to handle my wife's initial green card application. The whole process went smoothly, as the team addressed all of our concerns in thorough/timely manner. I felt that the application prep was in good hands at every point in the process. The application was filed timely, and she received her green card in about 3 months.
Lawrence L.
I am so grateful to Linda and her team for their amazing work! They helped me get my green card in less than two months, and everything went smoothly. Linda and her team were quick, knew exactly what to do, and were also very kind and supportive. I felt taken care of the whole time. If you need a lawyer who works fast and cares, Linda and her team are the best choice!
M V
Yet ANOTHER 5 star review for these folks! We started the process for my wife's green card two years ago and were lucky to be in a very favorable position for the application but that didn't mean that it didn't take time and jumping through strange and sudden hoops. Linda, Winston, Pedro, Arturo and the whole team at ILOLA were always expert and highly expedient at keeping our concerns at bay. Email responses came almost instantly and at one point my wife said their quick replies probably kept her from getting an ulcer! They were professional and friendly and always made us feel like we were seen - we never felt like our case was ever off their radar. We would genuinely and whole-hearted recommend this team and feel lucky that they happened to be the first immigration lawyers that we called.
Luke Warner
Linda is a fantastic immigration lawyer and I cannot recommend her practice enough. When you work with Linda and her team you will receive: clear communication, fast responses, deep knowledge of rules and regulations, decades of experience with successfull cases, attention to detail and professionalism. Linda helped me get my permanent residence in a little over 3 months. She built my case and we filed for an extraordinary ability I-140 petition on May 2024. When that was approved with no RFE's she helped me file for adjustment of status I-485 on June 2024. Thanks to her skills and dedication I just received my green card on August 2024! Hiring Linda as my representation has been one of the best decision I've ever made!
Carlos Laguna
Linda and her team were truly amazing in handling my immigration case! From their prompt responses to all my questions to the seamless filing of paperwork, they made the entire process feel like a breeze. The support and guidance I received at every step were invaluable, and I can't express how grateful I am. What's even more incredible is that I received my green card in less than two months – a testament to their efficiency and expertise.
I genuinely couldn't be happier with the outcome, and if you find yourself in need of immigration assistance, I wholeheartedly recommend Linda's outstanding team. 🌟
Yasmin Zekaria
Winston, Linda, Juan, Arturo and the team are very good at what they do. They worked on my green card process and I couldn't be any more happier with their amazing service. They are professional and very hands on. Every time I had a question or concern they responded immediately. The whole process went smoothly. They took care of me every step of the way and not once did I had any issues with the forms that needed to be filled out. They made it so easy for me. I will forever be thankful for their hard work in making this happen.
I highly recommend ILOLA to anyone who is need of immigration services. You will be in good hands.
Oscar Cervantes
Linda Lee and her team were incredibly helpful, responsive and transparent every step of the way. From our first initial call to receiving approval of benefits, they were great. They left no stone unturned while collecting details for our case ensuring we had no issues further along the process. If you’re looking for an efficient and friendly team to help you through your green card application process, my wife and I would highly recommend them. Thank you Linda & co! 5*****
Joe Campbell
I really want to recommend immigration law office of Los Angeles, You were super patient and empathetic with me. Thank you to your entire team and the great work you do together. My green card process only lasted 90 days, thank you to God and to you for your help. I can only thank you very much for your empathy with your clients. If I ever needed help with any case again, I would contact you again. Your work was impeccable. I highly recommend it. Linda, Pedro, Winston, and Arturo, what a great team you make. Thank you for everything.
