Name: LegalService
Item: Getachew & Ansari Immigration Attorneys, P.C.
Rating: 5
Author: Shahram G.

If you are married to someone who is a United States citizen or who has a Green Card, you may be eligible to apply for a spouse visa. You should show that you meet the special requirements, which include being in a legitimate marriage. The two types of spouse visas you may qualify for are the IR1 and the CR1 visas. The IR1 may be appropriate if you have been married to your spouse for over two years, and the CR1 may be appropriate if you have been married for less than two years.

A spouse visa lawyer at Getachew & Ansari Immigration Attorneys, P.C., can help you determine what visas you can apply for in your situation. We have helped dozens of clients through many types of immigration processes, including assisting them with seeking asylum, a visa, and an adjustment of status. We welcome the chance to see what we can do for you, too.

What Are the IR1 and CR1 Visas?

The IR1 and CR1 visas allow a person to request a spouse visa if they are married to someone who has a Green Card or is a citizen of the United States. For the IR1 visa, the marriage must be at least two years old. For the CR1 visa, however, the marriage must be less than two years old.

Eligibility Requirements for a Spouse Visa

Before you can request a spouse visa, you need to show that you meet the criteria for the type of visa you are requesting.

For example, you need to prove that your marriage is based on love and is lawful under the rules where it took place. You would also show that you have been married to your spouse for the required number of years. For an IR1 visa, this would be two years or more. For a CR1 visa, it would be less than two years.

Differences Between IR1 and CR1 Visas

An IR1 visa is also called an Immediate Relative Spouse visa. An IR1 spouse visa is available to eligible immigrants who have been married to United States citizens or Green Card holders.

To qualify, the applicant would need to have been married to their spouse for at least two years.

They may also have to meet other conditions, such as having an acceptable criminal record and proving the marriage is legitimate, rather than getting a Green Card.

A CR1, or Conditional Relative visa, is also available to an immigrant who is married to someone who is a U.S. citizen or a lawful permanent resident. However, a CR1 visa is for people who have been married for less than two years.

Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for a Spouse Visa

The first step in applying for a spouse visa is for the spouse who is a United States citizen or a lawful permanent resident to file a special form to sponsor the other spouse’s application. In most cases, this would be Form I-130.

The spouse who is not a lawful permanent resident would then file their application to request an IR1 or CR1 visa. The United States government will also ask for information about the spouses, marriage, and other related matters. Part of the purpose of this is to make sure the marriage is based on a genuine desire to be married, rather than trying to get a visa.

The U.S. government may also interview the spouses about the application before deciding whether to accept or deny the visa request.

How a Lawyer Can Help With the Spouse Visa Application Process

An attorney can be a valuable resource for people who are applying for a visa and are married to a U.S. citizen or a Green Card holder. The lawyer has updated knowledge about changes in immigration law and how these might impact someone’s eligibility for a visa. Additionally, the attorney can prepare the required paperwork and file it with the correct agency. Lawyers also help prepare a spouse visa applicant for the interview with the United States immigration agents, and they may be able to attend this meeting as well.

Common Delays and Denials (And How To Avoid Them)

Several different factors can delay a person’s spouse visa application or result in a denial. For example, if the person does not turn in the correct forms or supporting documents on time, it may take longer for the U.S. government to review the application. Additionally, the U.S. government may reject the application if the person did not attend the interview or submit all of the requested information. Someone can help limit the chance of a denial or delay by working with an attorney to make sure they complete all the steps within the proper timeframe.

Adjusting Status After Entering the U.S. on a Spouse Visa

If the person gets a spouse visa from the U.S. government, they can ask for permission to adjust their status when they arrive in the United States. If they meet the eligibility requirements and are accepted, the person with a spouse visa may then become a lawful permanent resident.

Contact an Experienced Spousal Visa Lawyer at Getachew & Ansari Immigration Attorneys, P.C.

One way for someone to gain lawful entry into the United States is to ask for an IR1 or CR1 spouse visa from the U.S. These visas allow someone to petition the United States government for a visa because they are married to a United States citizen or a Green Card holder. Someone in this situation may find it helpful to consult a spouse visa lawyer who can explain the steps and fill out and file the required paperwork.

Getachew & Ansari Immigration Attorneys, P.C., has guided many people through the process of seeking an IR1 or CR1 visa. Our law firm dedicates its time, energy, knowledge, and resources to providing immigration legal services to communities across the United States. We can help you through all stages of the application process for a spouse visa.

Call us today at 408-292-7995 to schedule an initial consultation to discuss your immigration concerns.

★★★★★

Medya and her exceptional team at Getachew & Ansari Immigration have been the guiding stars on my challenging path towards securing my green card. As I look back on the years we've spent together, they have become more than just my migration lawyers; they have become an extension of my family. From day one, my case was a maze of complexities and obstacles, but Medya's expertise and her team's dedication transformed the seemingly impossible into a reality. what truly sets Medya and her team apart is their personal touch. They are not just legal professionals; they are genuine friends who care deeply about the well-being of their clients. They've walked beside me, understanding not only the intricacies of immigration law but also the emotional and psychological toll it can take on individuals. Throughout the journey, there were moments of despair and hopelessness. But Medya and her team were always there to provide a ray of hope, offering kind words, a listening ear, and a comforting presence. Their knowledge, professionalism, and expertise are unparalleled, but it is their humanity and compassion that truly shine. In a world where legal matters can often be impersonal and intimidating, Medya and her team have redefined what it means to have immigration representation. They've transformed the legal process into a deeply personal and transformative journey, and I couldn't be more grateful for their guidance. To Medya and her incredible team, you are not just legal professionals; you are guardians of dreams, friends, and cherished family. Thank you for your unrelenting support, your kindness, and your unwavering dedication.

Solomon E.

A short while ago, my wife and I consulted Miss Ansari on the subject of applying for U.S. naturalization and citizenship. We found Miss Ansari, from the very starting point, quite energetic, knowledgeable, and efficient. We thus retained her to represent our case. I think the whole process took us about four months, and we are now U.S. citizens. It is also of interest to new applicants that her fees are very reasonable and indeed are worth it. I might also add that the office personnel were courteous and friendly.

Shahram G.

I am incredibly thankful for the exceptional immigration services provided by Lawyer Ansari and Getachew & Ansari Immigration Attorneys, P.C. From our initial consultation to the successful resolution of my immigration case, she consistently displayed a remarkable level of professionalism, expertise, and dedication. Throughout the entire process, Ansari ensured that every step was clearly explained, keeping me well-informed and confident in the path forward. What truly set her apart was her ability to balance strategic insight with personalized attention. She went above and beyond, offering valuable advice and addressing all of my concerns. It's rare to encounter a lawyer who combines such profound legal knowledge with genuine care for their client's well-being. I couldn't have asked for a better advocate, and I wholeheartedly recommend Getachew & Ansari Immigration Attorneys, P.C. to anyone seeking immigration assistance. Their commitment, expertise, and compassion are second to none. Thank you for everything!

Joel Mbangah

I honestly don't know where to start. Yemi was by far the best and most considerate person I ever met. She is straight and professional on what she does. I am really lucky and blessed to have her by my side throughout my paper works. Her office is easy to access and provides all the information you need. She is humble, passionate and a big time motivator. She was there with me through out the thick and thin. Her associates and co-workers are very helpful and professionals. Mark my words, she is good at what she performs.
Much love and respect to her and her team!

Johan B.

My family and I are incredibly grateful to Medya Ansari and her team for their professionalism, knowledge, and dedication. They were patient, communicative, and kept us informed every step of the way, ensuring we fully understood the process. Medya was upfront about the possible outcomes and risks, providing us with clear guidance. Once we decided to move forward, she was persistent and committed to finding a solution. We truly appreciate her efforts and highly recommend her and her team!

Mohammad Adeel

When my wife and I learned that we needed a lawyer to represent us, we reached out to Mrs Getachew. From the first day of our contact, Getachew has proved her sublime service in representing us. As an immigrant, it is not uncommon to find the legal process to be taxing; however, Mrs. Getachew had made it easy to navigate. I appreciate her compassion and her caring demeanor which made the interaction we had with her flawless. I know several friends who have struggled, at times suffered, in the process of getting their legal documents sorted out. My wife and took us less than six months to get our documents sorted out. I highly recommend the Law Office of Yemi Getachew for any immigration related services believing that she will exceedingly deliver the service she promises to offer.

Etana D.

Your team’s expertise, patience, and dedication were instrumental in my successful application. I particularly appreciated your prompt responses to my queries or your thorough explanation of the complex immigration laws. Your guidance and support made the daunting process much more manageable. Thanks to your hard work, I am now a proud green card holder. This milestone would not have been possible without your assistance.

Eliab N.

Yemi is not only highly competent (after 20 years in the field), but she is heart and soul. She is the real deal.

Lina S.

IR1/CR1 Spouse Visa Lawyer