Marriage is a major life step—and for many couples, it also marks the beginning of an immigration journey. If you’re a U.S. citizen or green card holder married to a foreign national, a marriage-based green card allows your spouse to live and work in the United States legally while you build your future together.

But like any government process, applying for a marriage-based green card is complex. Between eligibility requirements, document checklists, USCIS interviews, and shifting immigration rules, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. That’s where working with an experienced immigration law firm like Chris Colavecchio at Colavecchio & Colavecchio Law Office in Nashville, TN, can make all the difference.

Here’s what you need to know about the process—and why a professional green card attorney is often the key to success.

What Is a Marriage-Based Green Card?

A marriage-based green card allows a foreign-born spouse of a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident (green card holder) to live permanently in the United States. There are two paths, depending on where the immigrant spouse currently lives:

• If the spouse is in the U.S., the couple files an Adjustment of Status package with USCIS (primarily using Forms I-130 and I-485).
• If the spouse is outside the U.S., the process is handled through Consular Processing, where the immigrant attends an interview at a U.S. embassy abroad after I-130 approval.

In both cases, the government closely reviews the application to confirm that the marriage is genuine—not just for immigration purposes.

Key Documents & Requirements

To apply, you’ll need to prove:

• A bona fide marriage (not a sham marriage)
• The sponsor’s ability to support the immigrant financially (via Form I-864, Affidavit of Support)
• All required civil documents (marriage certificate, birth certificates, prior divorce decrees, etc.)
• Proof of a shared life (joint lease, joint bank accounts, photos, messages, travel records, etc.)

Any errors, missing documentation, or inconsistencies can trigger delays, denials, or a Request for Evidence (RFE). That’s why having the right legal guidance from the beginning can help you avoid costly mistakes.

How Long Does It Take?

Marriage-based green card timelines vary depending on the case type and processing center, but on average:

• Adjustment of Status (in the U.S.): 10–18 months
• Consular Processing (abroad): 12–20 months

Factors like USCIS workload, security checks, background screening, and interview backlogs can impact your specific case.

If you’re married less than two years at the time of green card approval, your spouse will receive a conditional green card, valid for two years. Before it expires, you must jointly file Form I-751 to remove the conditions and obtain permanent residency.

Why Legal Representation Matters

It’s tempting to go the DIY route—after all, USCIS forms are available online. But immigration law is more than paperwork. Here’s why hiring an attorney like Chris Colavecchio is a smart move:

1. Avoid Delays or Denials: The smallest mistake or omission can derail your case. Chris helps you avoid common errors that lead to RFEs or denials.
2. Prepare for the Interview: The green card interview can be intimidating. Chris personally prepares his clients for what to expect and even attends interviews in Nashville, Memphis, or Louisville.
3. Support Through Complications: If you have prior immigration issues, criminal history, or travel overstays, legal advice becomes critical. Chris helps clients handle inadmissibility issues, I-601/I-601A waivers, and complex USCIS requests.
4. Peace of Mind: When your future together depends on one application, it pays to have someone in your corner who’s done it hundreds of times.

Real Client Results

Colavecchio & Colavecchio Law has earned a reputation in Tennessee for responsiveness, compassion, and results. One recent client said:

“Chris and Christina were very responsive… My green card was approved in only 4 ½ months. I could not be more appreciative of their kindness, patience, professionalism…”

Their firm has a 97% success rate in immigration matters and decades of combined experience helping families navigate the legal system.

Serving Middle Tennessee and Beyond

While the firm is based in Nashville, Colavecchio & Colavecchio proudly serves clients throughout Clarksville, Columbia, Franklin, Murfreesboro, and surrounding areas. They also offer consultations to couples anywhere in the U.S. who need help with consular processing or I-864 financial sponsorship.

Ready to Apply?

If you and your spouse are ready to start the green card process, don’t wait. The sooner you file, the sooner you can enjoy the benefits of lawful permanent residency—working legally, traveling safely, and planning your future without immigration uncertainty.

Call Colavecchio & Colavecchio Law Office at (615) 242‑3333 or visit colavecchiolaw.com to schedule a consultation. Let their experienced team help you take the next step—together.