IR1/CR1 Marriage-Based Green Card

The IR1 and CR1 categories are green cards for foreign spouses of U.S. citizens. They are part of the immediate relative family-based immigration system and allow qualifying spouses to obtain permanent residency without being subject to visa quotas.

What's the difference?

• IR1 (Immediate Relative): For couples married more than 2 years at the time of green card approval.
• CR1 (Conditional Resident): For couples married less than 2 years at the time of approval. The green card is valid for 2 years and requires removal of conditions (via Form I-751).

Petition Process:

1. U.S. citizen spouse files Form I-130 with USCIS to establish the marital relationship.
2. Once approved, the case is transferred to the NVC and then to the embassy (if abroad), or you may proceed with adjustment of status (if inside the U.S.).
3. Applicant attends a biometrics appointment and consular or USCIS interview.
4. Upon approval, receives IR1 or CR1 green card.

Supporting documents include marriage certificate, joint documents (e.g., lease, bank accounts), photos, affidavits, and proof of bona fide relationship.

CR1 recipients must later file Form I-751 to remove the conditions on their green card within 90 days of expiration.

Processing times vary based on USCIS and consulate workload. IR1/CR1 applicants benefit from no numerical caps, making this one of the fastest green card routes if the relationship is well-documented.