How to Apply for a Marriage-Based Green Card in Miami [2025 Guide]
If you’re married to a U.S. citizen or green card holder and living in South Florida, you may be eligible to apply for a marriage-based green card. This process can be complex, but with the right legal guidance, it becomes much more manageable.
As a Miami immigration attorney, I’ve helped dozens of couples successfully navigate this journey. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of what you need to know.
Step 1: Determine Eligibility
To qualify, you must meet basic requirements:
Be legally married to a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident
Be in a genuine (bona fide) marriage
Be eligible to adjust status (if applying from inside the U.S.) or apply through consular processing abroad
Step 2: Gather Required Forms
The main forms include:
Form I-130 (Petition for Alien Relative)
Form I-485 (Adjustment of Status) – if applying inside the U.S.
Form I-864 (Affidavit of Support)
Form I-765 (Work Authorization – optional)
Form I-131 (Travel Document – optional)
Step 3: Submit Strong Evidence
Immigration officers need proof your marriage is real. This includes:
Joint bank account statements
Lease or mortgage documents
Wedding photos and invitations
Texts, travel records, and shared bills
Step 4: Attend the Interview
After submitting your application, you’ll attend an interview at your local USCIS office (in Miami, it's near Coral Way). A USCIS officer will ask about your relationship and background. This step is crucial—and one of the many reasons having a lawyer by your side makes a big difference.
Bonus Tip: Work With a Lawyer
Even minor mistakes can lead to delays or denials. Working with an experienced immigration attorney in Coral Gablesensures your paperwork is filed correctly, your evidence is strong, and you’re fully prepared for your interview.
Ready to Get Started?
At Doga Law Group, we help couples throughout Miami and Florida successfully apply for marriage-based green cards. We offer bilingual services and flat-fee packages for peace of mind.
Schedule a consultation today to learn more about your options.
