Green Card by Marriage to a U.S. Citizen Frequently Asked Questions:
Q: How long does it take for the Work Permit to be issued after we file the petition with USCIS?
A: The Work Permit is usually issued between 30 and 90 days after the petition is filed with USCIS.
Q: What is Advance Parole?
A: Advance Parole is the re-entry permit that you must apply for if you wish to re-enter the U.S. after foreign travel while you are waiting for your Green Card. If you do not have the Advance Parole re-entry permit and you leave the U.S., you may be denied re-entry.
Note: If you are on an H-1B or L-1 Visa, you do not need the Advance Parole Re-entry permit. You may re-enter the U.S. on your H-1B or L-1 Visa, provided you are still in valid H-1B or L-1 status.
Q: When and how do I get my Social Security Card?
A: After your Work Permit is issued, you may apply for your Social Security Card at any Social Security Office. You will want to take your passport and Work Permit with you as identification. You fill out the application in the Social Security Office and they will mail you the Social Security Card about 2 weeks later.
Q: How long does it take for the Interview to be scheduled?
A: Depending on the State, it takes anywhere from 6-24 months.
Q: What happens if my Work Permit and / or Advance Parole expire before I receive my Green Card?
A: You are allowed to file for a renewal of your Work Permit and Advance Parole until your Green Card is issued.
If you have a general Green Card by Marriage question, please use the form below. We will do our best to answer it for you: