IR-1 and CR-1 Spousal Visas
IR-1 and CR-1 visas are immigrant visa categories for foreign spouses of U.S. citizens. The appropriate category depends in part on how long the marriage has existed when the immigrant visa is issued.
IR-1
The IR-1 category generally applies when the qualifying marriage has existed for at least two years at the time of visa issuance, resulting in permanent resident status without the two-year conditional period.
CR-1
The CR-1 category generally applies when the qualifying marriage is less than two years old at the time of visa issuance and results in conditional permanent residence.
Basic Eligibility Concepts
- The couple must be legally married for the spousal immigrant visa process.
- The U.S. citizen spouse is generally the petitioner and the foreign spouse is the beneficiary.
- Supporting documentation must establish the qualifying relationship and satisfy government requirements.
- Financial sponsorship and other eligibility requirements apply.
General Process
File the petition
The U.S. citizen petitioner generally files Form I-130.
USCIS processing
After petition processing, the case proceeds through the National Visa Center and consular processing.
Document preparation
The beneficiary completes the required forms and gathers civil, financial and relationship documentation.
Medical examination and interview
The beneficiary completes the required medical examination and attends the visa interview.
Visa issuance and entry
If approved, the beneficiary travels to the United States and enters as an immigrant subject to the terms of the issued visa.
How our Preferred Partner Can Help
our Preferred Partner can assist with paperwork, document preparation, interview preparation and case support. Contact Cherry Blossoms to request a referral.