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Spouse of a US citizen, living in the US

A green card without leaving the US (adjustment of status). If you entered without inspection, talk to a lawyer first.

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I-485 decision most likely:
in 6–12 months
if you start today

  1. USCIS decides the I-130 and the I-485

    Most likely 6–12 months after you file

    For now, from our reading of the numbers: USCIS decided 46% fewer of these cases in Apr–Jun 2026 than its average over the four quarters before. Plan for the later end of the range.

    You usually file the I-130 and the I-485 together. USCIS decides them after an interview with both of you. I-485 processing times.

    How we worked this out

    Based on USCIS’s median time of 7.0 months for I-485 (Family) cases (Apr–Jun 2026 data), and on how far real waits landed from the median in past quarters: about half landed in the most likely range and 8 in 10 in the wider one.

    • Work permit (I-765)

      Most likely 6–11 months after the step before

      Usually filed with the I-485, at no extra fee. You can work once it is approved. I-765 processing times.

      How we worked this out

      Based on USCIS’s median time of 6.4 months for I-765 (Adjustment of Status) cases (Apr–Jun 2026 data), and on how far real waits landed from the median in past quarters: about half landed in the most likely range and 8 in 10 in the wider one.

    • Travel document (I-131)

      Most likely 5–10 months after the step before

      Usually filed with the I-485. Leaving the US before it is approved can cancel your I-485, unless you hold H or L status. I-131 processing times.

      How we worked this out

      Based on USCIS’s median time of 5.8 months for I-131 (Advance Parole) cases (Apr–Jun 2026 data), and on how far real waits landed from the median in past quarters: about half landed in the most likely range and 8 in 10 in the wider one.

  2. Green card

    USCIS mails the card within weeks. If you were married for less than 2 years when it was approved, it is valid for 2 years.

  3. Later: removing the conditions (I-751)

    Most likely 19–38 months after the step before

    If you were married for less than 2 years when you got your green card, it is valid for 2 years. File the I-751 in the 90 days before it expires. I-751 processing times.

    How we worked this out

    Based on USCIS’s median time of 22.6 months for the I-751 cases (Apr–Jun 2026 data), and on how far real waits landed from the median in past quarters: about half landed in the most likely range and 8 in 10 in the wider one.

Newest numbers: USCIS: Apr–Jun 2026. Your case can take longer: a request for evidence or a background check can add months.