Reuniting with your spouse in the United States is a life-changing milestone, but the path to a Marriage Green Card USA 2026 is more complex than ever. With the USCIS fee updates and new public charge rule 2026 enforcement policies, a single paperwork error can lead to years of separation.
This guide provides a comprehensive, data-backed breakdown of the USA Spousal Visa Process 2026, covering current timelines, exact costs, and the crucial differences between CR1 and IR1 pathways.
Understanding the Tiers: CR1 vs. IR1 Visa Guide 2026
You do not choose the visa type. It depends on how long you have been married when your spouse enters the USA.
- CR1 (Conditional Resident) Visa This visa is for couples married less than 2 years. It is called conditional because the green card lasts only 2 years. After 2 years, you must file Form I-751 to remove the conditions. You file this form 90 days before the 2-year card expires. If approved, you get a full 10-year green card. This extra step helps prove the marriage is real.
- IR1 (Immediate Relative) Visa This visa is for couples married 2 years or more. You get a 10-year green card right away with no conditions. It is easier because there is no extra form to file later.
The main difference is the marriage length. CR1 needs one more step after 2 years. IR1 does not.
Step-by-Step: The USA Spousal Visa Process 2026
The process has three big parts.
USCIS Filing
The person in the USA (the sponsor) starts by sending Form I-130 to USCIS. This form shows your marriage is real.
You need to prove the marriage is true. Send things like:
- Joint bank account statements
- Rent or house papers with both names
- Photos of you together
- Insurance papers with both names
- Letters from friends or family
More proof means faster approval.
NVC Processing
When USCIS approves I-130, the case goes to the National Visa Center (NVC). You use an online account (CEAC) to send more papers.
You send:
- Form DS-260 (online visa application)
- Form I-864 (proof that the sponsor has enough money)
You also pay fees and send other papers like birth certificate, marriage certificate, and police records.
The Consular Interview
The last step is an interview at the US Embassy in your spouse’s country. Your spouse goes there to answer questions about your marriage.
You must bring:
- Medical exam results from an approved doctor
- Police clearance certificate
- Passport and other documents
If the officer is happy, the visa is approved. Your spouse can then travel to the USA. The green card comes in the mail after arrival.
Financial Breakdown: Cost of US Spousal Visa 2026
In 2026, USCIS increased fees because of higher costs. Here is the total cost when your spouse is outside the USA (consular processing):
- Form I-130 fee: $675 (or $625 if you file online)
- DS-260 processing fee: $325
- I-864 fee: $120
- USCIS immigrant fee (after approval): $235
- Medical exam: $200 to $500 (depends on the country)
Total cost: About $1,555 to $1,855
Note: If your spouse is already in the USA and uses Adjustment of Status, the I-485 fee is about $1,440. Costs can be different in that case. Always check the official USCIS website for the exact fees because they can change.
Eligibility & Income Requirements (125% Poverty Guidelines)
You must show you can support your spouse. The sponsor needs income at least 125% of the poverty line for your family size. For a family of 2 (you + spouse) in most US states, you need about $25,550 to $26,400 income per year in 2026. This number changes a little each year.
You show this with:
- Tax returns
- Pay slips
- Form I-864
If your income is not enough, you can use savings, property, or ask another person to be a joint sponsor.
2026 Public Charge Rule Updates
The government checks if your spouse might need public help (like welfare). In 2026, officers look very carefully at:
- Sponsor’s income
- Assets (money and property)
- Health
- Credit score
- Education
Some countries had pauses on visas to check this rule. A strong I-864 form helps a lot to avoid problems.
Timeline: How long does it take in 2026?
People often ask: How long is the spouse visa process in 2026?
Current average times:
- I-130 approval at USCIS: 14 to 17 months
- NVC and embassy wait: 4 to 10 months
- Total time: 18 to 27 months
Times can be longer because of more applications and extra checks. You can check your case on the USCIS website with the “Check Case Processing Times” tool. It shows current estimates.
Tip: Send perfect papers the first time. A Request for Evidence (RFE) can add many months.
FAQ: US Spousal Visas
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Can my spouse work in the US while waiting?
If outside the US, no. If inside the US and doing Adjustment of Status, apply for work permit with Form I-765.
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What is K-3 visa?
K-3 lets the spouse come to the US while waiting. But now it is not used much because I-130 gets approved faster.
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Can I travel while the case is going on?
If adjusting status in the US, apply for Advance Parole (Form I-131) so you can travel and come back. If outside, wait for the visa.
Final Thoughts: Secure Your Future
The USA Spousal Visa Process 2026 is long and needs careful work. It is not quick. Prepare good proof of marriage, meet the income rules, and check all papers twice. This helps avoid delays or rejection.
Start early, read the official websites (USCIS.gov and Travel.State.gov), and follow the latest rules. Good preparation means you and your spouse can live together in the USA sooner.
Disclaimer: This is only general information to help you understand. Immigration rules change often. Always check the official US government websites for the most current and correct details before you start or pay anything.