US citizenship by marriage allows foreign spouses of American citizens to apply for naturalization after just three years of permanent residency, instead of the usual five.
The process requires first obtaining a marriage-based green card, maintaining three years of residence in marital union, and then applying for naturalization under USCIS rules.
This article covers:
- How to get US citizenship through marriage?
- What documents are needed for a citizenship application in the US?
- How long does it take to become a citizen after marrying an American?
- Where does the US rank in passports?
- What are the advantages and disadvantages of being a US citizen?
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What are the 5 requirements to become a US citizen by marriage?
To qualify for US citizenship through marriage, the foreign spouse must meet the following requirements:
- Valid marriage – The marriage must be legally recognized and bona fide, not entered into solely for immigration purposes.
- Permanent residency – The foreign spouse must first obtain a green card through marriage.
- Continuous residence – At least three years of residence in the US as a green card holder, while living in marital union with the US citizen spouse.
- Language and civics – Demonstrated ability to speak, read, and write basic English and pass the US civics test.
- Good moral character – No disqualifying criminal offenses or violations of immigration law.
What documents do I need to apply for citizenship through marriage in the US?
Applicants to become a US citizen by marriage must submit Form N-400 (Application for Naturalization) along with supporting documents, such as:
- Green card (proof of permanent residency)
- Marriage certificate and evidence of bona fide marriage (joint financial accounts, lease agreements, or children’s birth certificates)
- Proof of continuous residence and physical presence
- Tax returns for the past three years filed jointly with the US spouse
- Identification documents and photographs
What is the US citizenship through marriage timeline?
The full process from marriage to US citizenship usually takes about 4–5 years, though actual processing times vary.
- Marriage green card: Typically 10–24 months to obtain, depending on USCIS and consular backlogs.
- Residency requirement: Must live in America as a green card holder for three years while married to and living with a US citizen.
- Naturalization application (Form N-400): Usually takes 12–18 months from filing to oath ceremony.
How much does it cost to become a US citizen through marriage?
Applicants for citizenship by marriage in the US should expect to pay government filing fees plus additional expenses. The main costs include:
- The naturalization application (Form N-400) fee is $760 (for paper filing) under current USCIS policy.
- The cost of obtaining a marriage-based green card (adjustment of status or consular processing) often runs around $1,760 or more under the new 2024 fee schedule.
- Additional costs — biometrics, medical examinations, translation, and legal or travel costs — can add several hundred dollars or more depending on location and individual circumstances.
What are the benefits of marrying a US citizen?
- Faster green card process compared to other family-based visas.
- Eligibility for citizenship in three years instead of the usual five.
- Legal right to live and work in the US with a secure path to permanent residency.
- Stronger protection against deportation once permanent residency is obtained.
What are the benefits of getting US citizenship?
US citizenship provides significant long-term advantages:
- Right to vote in federal, state, and local elections
- US passport and consular protection worldwide
- Eligibility for federal jobs and benefits not open to green card holders
- Ability to petition for more family members to immigrate
- No need to renew residency or fear of losing status after long absences
Are there any disadvantages of being a US citizen?
While the pros are substantial, some cons of US citizenship include:
- Worldwide taxation for US citizens – They must report global income, regardless of where they live.
- Jury duty and civic obligations – Participation in civic responsibilities is mandatory.
- Citizenship renunciation complexities – Giving up US citizenship later is difficult and costly.
How long can I stay in the US if I marry a US citizen?
A foreign spouse can live in the US indefinitely if they maintain lawful permanent residency, but the first marriage green card is conditional and valid for 2 years if the marriage is under two years old at approval.
After filing Form I-751 to remove conditions, the spouse receives a 10-year green card, which can be renewed indefinitely and eventually leads to eligibility for citizenship.
Can I work immediately after getting married to a US citizen?
Not automatically. Marriage alone does not give work rights in the United States. A foreign spouse must first apply for and receive work authorization.
This is usually granted with a pending green card application (via Employment Authorization Document, EAD) or upon approval of the green card itself.
How long does it take to bring a spouse to the USA with citizenship?
A US citizen can usually bring a foreign spouse to the United States within 8 to 24 months.
- Inside the US (Adjustment of Status): Processing of Form I-485 typically takes about 8–14 months.
- Outside the US (Consular Processing): The I-130 petition, NVC stage, and consular interview often take 12–24 months, though some cases finish closer to 10–14 months.
US Passport Ranking
The US consistently ranks among the world’s strongest passports.
- Henley Passport Index: Ranked 12th globally with access to 180 destinations.
- Arton Capital Passport Index: Places the US in 9th position for global mobility.
- Nomad Passport Index: US ranks lower due to tax burdens but still scores high for global mobility. It’s currently ranked at 45th.
Can an American get dual citizenship through marriage?
Yes. US citizens can generally acquire a second nationality by marrying a foreign national without losing their US citizenship.
The United States allows dual citizenship, meaning you do not have to renounce your American citizenship when obtaining your spouse’s nationality.
However, each country has its own rules regarding dual citizenship, so it’s important to check whether the spouse’s country permits retaining your original nationality.
Some countries may require naturalization applicants to renounce prior citizenship, which could affect the dual status.
Conclusion
United States citizenship by marriage remains one of the most efficient ways for foreign nationals to achieve permanent residency and eventually naturalization.
While the process involves careful documentation, fees, and waiting periods, the pathway is clear: green card through marriage, three years of residency, and then eligibility for naturalization.
For many couples, this route not only secures family unity but also unlocks the broader rights and opportunities of American citizens.
FAQs
Can you be deported if you are married to a US citizen?
Yes. Marriage does not protect against deportation if the spouse has violated immigration laws or committed serious crimes.
How fast can I get a green card if I marry a US citizen?
If the foreign spouse is already in the US, the Adjustment of Status (AOS) process for a marriage-based green card typically takes about 8.2 months as of current estimates.
What are the benefits of marriage in the United States?
Legal recognition of family unity, eligibility for spousal immigration sponsorship, access to tax benefits, and shared property and inheritance rights.
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