CR-1 Spouse Visa Timeline

Complete process overview for spouses married less than 2 years

1
File Form I-130 Petition
11-14 months
U.S. citizen spouse files petition with USCIS to establish qualifying relationship. This is the longest step in the process.

Required Documents:

  • Marriage certificate
  • Proof of U.S. citizenship
  • Evidence of genuine marriage
  • Birth certificates
  • Financial support documentation
Cost: $625 (online) or $675 (paper)
2
National Visa Center (NVC) Processing
3-6 months
After USCIS approval, case moves to NVC for document collection and initial processing.

Sub-steps:

  • Case creation (2-3 weeks)
  • Welcome letter (1-3 weeks)
  • Fee payment
  • Document review (2-4 months)
Cost: $445 (visa fee) + $120 (affidavit fee)
3
Document Submission
Depends on you
Submit Form DS-260 and all required civil and financial documents to NVC.

Required Documents:

  • Form DS-260 (immigrant visa application)
  • Form I-864 (Affidavit of Support)
  • Civil documents (birth certificates, etc.)
  • Police certificates
  • Financial documents
4
Interview Scheduling
1-4 months
After becoming "documentarily qualified," NVC schedules interview at U.S. embassy/consulate in home country.

During This Time:

  • Wait for interview scheduling
  • Prepare for interview
  • Gather any additional documents
  • Review case thoroughly
5
Medical Examination
1-2 weeks before interview
Required medical exam by authorized panel physician before consular interview.

Important Notes:

  • Must use embassy-approved physician
  • Schedule close to interview date
  • Bring vaccination records
  • Results valid for limited time
Cost: $200-500 (varies by location)
6
Consular Interview & Visa Issuance
1 week after approval
Final interview at U.S. embassy/consulate. If approved, visa typically issued within one week.

After Approval:

  • Receive passport with visa
  • Enter U.S. within visa validity period
  • Green card mailed to U.S. address
  • Begin 2-year conditional residency

Total Expected Timeline

12-18 months from initial filing to visa issuance

Total Cost: Approximately $1,220 (plus medical exam fees)