One of the most common questions we hear at the Law Office of Carrie Nguyen is: “How long will it take to get my Green Card?”
It’s a question that carries weight. You want to know when you can finally stop worrying about your status and start planning for your future. The truth is that the timeline varies, but understanding the steps can help you navigate the process with less anxiety.
Here is a breakdown of the typical Adjustment of Status timeline for immediate relatives (spouses/parents of U.S. citizens).
Step 1: Filing the Application (Month 1)
The process begins when we file your “Concurrent Filing” package. This typically includes:
- Form I-130 (Family Petition)
- Form I-485 (Adjustment of Status)
- Form I-765 (Work Permit)
Our Timeline Promise: We don’t let your case sit on a desk. We commit to moving your case forward with our 30/60/90-day accountability promise.
Step 2: Receipt Notices & Biometrics (Month 2)
About 2-4 weeks after filing, you will receive “Receipt Notices” confirming USCIS has your case. Shortly after, you will be scheduled for a Biometrics Appointment.
- What happens: You go to a local support center (usually in Dallas or Fort Worth) to have your fingerprints and photo taken. It takes about 15 minutes.
Step 3: Work & Travel Permits (Month 4–8)
This is the first major victory! Before your Green Card is even approved, you may receive your Employment Authorization Document (EAD) .
- What this means: You can legally work in the U.S. and get a Social Security Number.
Step 4: The Interview (Month 8–14)
USCIS will schedule your interview at a local field office (often Irving).
- Note: Sometimes, for parents of U.S. citizens, the interview is waived. However, for marriage-based cases, an interview is standard.
- What happens: An officer reviews your application and confirms your relationship is bona fide (real).
Step 5: Approval & Card Production (Month 10–18+)
Once approved, your Green Card will arrive in the mail.
- Conditional Residents: If you have been married less than 2 years, you will receive a 2-year Green Card.
- Permanent Residents: If married longer than 2 years (or applying as a parent), you receive a 10-year card.
Factors That Speed Up or Delay Your Case
- Delays: Missing initial evidence (birth certificates, translations), criminal history issues, or requesting to reschedule your interview.
- Speed: A clean, complete initial filing package is the #1 way to ensure the fastest processing.
How We Help You Navigate the Timeline
Waiting is stressful. That’s why we provide regular case updates so you always know where you stand. Our all-female team is made up of immigrants and children of immigrants—we understand the fear, hope, and determination that come with this journey.
Ready to start your timeline?
Call us: 817-330-9734
Email us: info@carrielegal.com
Visit us: 721 N Fielder Rd., Suite C, Arlington, TX 76012
