The IR1/CR1 Spouse Visa allows the spouse of a US citizen to live permanently in the United States as a Green Card holder. The IR1 visa is issued to couples who have been married for more than 2 years and grants immediate permanent residency. The CR1 visa is for couples married for less than 2 years and provides conditional permanent residency valid for 2 years. After this period, applicants must apply to remove the conditions and obtain a permanent Green Card.
Applicants must be legally married to a US citizen
Proof of a genuine and valid marriage relationship is required
The US citizen sponsor must meet the required financial income guidelines
Both spouses must be legally free and eligible to marry
Applicants must complete medical examinations and background checks successfully
The US citizen spouse files Form I-130 with USCIS to establish the relationship.
USCIS reviews and approves the immigrant petition.
Submit fees, DS-260 form, and civil documents to NVC.
Complete a medical exam with an approved panel physician.
Attend the immigrant visa interview at the US Embassy or Consulate.
Receive the visa and travel to the US as a permanent resident.
Valid passport
Marriage certificate
Form I-130 approval notice
DS-260 confirmation page
Birth certificates
Police clearance certificate
Medical examination report
Proof of genuine relationship
Financial support documents (Form I-864)
Passport-size photographs
Note : Additional documents may be requested based on profile assessment
The IR1/CR1 spouse visa process usually takes around 12–24 months, depending on USCIS, NVC, and embassy processing times. Immediate relatives of US citizens generally do not face annual visa quota backlogs.
| Applicant Type | Fees |
|---|---|
Form I-130 Fee |
approximately $675 |
DS-260 Immigrant Visa Fee |
approximately $325 |
Affidavit of Support Fee |
approximately $120 |
USCIS Immigrant Fee |
approximately $235 |
Medical exam & document charges |
varies |
Note : Fees are subject to change as per government updates.
The IR1 and CR1 visas allow the spouse of a US citizen to immigrate to the USA and obtain permanent residency.
