TN workers and marriage green cards

TN visa workers engaged to, or married to a U.S. citizen generally a few options to pursue U.S. permanent residence ( which is reffered to as obtaining a green card ). While the same basic requirements for a green card must be met in each of these options, they each involve different procedures and rules.

Applying for Adjustment of Status while WITHIN the USA

• TN visa workers married to a U.S. citizen may file for a green card by applying for Adjustment of Status (AOS).
• The whole process is completed from within the U.S.
• All paperwork filed at the same time.
• Generally, this can be the fastest of the options. Processing varies based on U.S. location, but is often completed within 1 year or less.
• You can maintain your TN visa status during process, but cannot renew or obtain new TN.
• You could face gap in status or work authorization based on timing.
• You may face travel restrictions until travel authorization issued.

Applying for Adjustment of Status while OUTSIDE the USA

• Usually people who are married to a U.S. citizen and who reside outside the U.S, use a process called immigrant visa processing. This process can be used by TN visa workers.
• It is a multi stage process which includes applying for a immigrant visa from the consolate in your country.
• Processing time for this option is about 12-18 months.
• This process does not provide any authorization to reside or work in the U.S. until the immigrant visa is issued.