How to Sponsor a Spouse for a Green Card from Outside the U.S.

January 8, 2026

How to Sponsor a Spouse for a Green Card from Outside the U.S.

For many families, marriage is the beginning of a shared life—but when spouses live in different countries, immigration rules can make that process feel overwhelming. If your spouse lives outside the United States, U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents may be able to help them obtain a green card through family-based immigration. Understanding the steps involved can help you prepare and avoid unnecessary delays.


At RGP Law Firm PLLC, we help couples in Orlando, Florida and beyond navigate the process of sponsoring a spouse for lawful permanent residence while living abroad. Below is an overview of how the process works and what to expect.


Who Can Sponsor a Spouse for a Green Card?

You may be eligible to sponsor your spouse if you are:

  • A United States citizen, or
  • A lawful permanent resident (green card holder)

U.S. citizens generally have faster options available, while lawful permanent residents may face longer wait times due to visa availability. In both cases, the marriage must be legally valid and entered into in good faith—not solely for immigration purposes.


Step 1: File Form I-130 (Petition for Alien Relative)

The first step in sponsoring a spouse from outside the U.S. is filing Form I-130 with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). This petition establishes the qualifying marital relationship.

You must submit supporting documents, which often include:

  • A valid marriage certificate
  • Proof of U.S. citizenship or permanent residence
  • Evidence of a real, ongoing marriage (photos, shared financial records, communication history, etc.)

Once USCIS approves the petition, the case is forwarded to the National Visa Center (NVC).


Step 2: National Visa Center Processing

After USCIS approval, the NVC collects additional documentation and fees before scheduling your spouse’s interview at a U.S. embassy or consulate abroad.

During this stage, you will submit:

  • The Affidavit of Support (Form I-864)
  • Civil documents such as birth certificates and police records
  • Immigrant visa application forms
  • Financial evidence showing the sponsor can support the spouse

Careful preparation during this stage is critical, as missing or incorrect documents can cause delays.


Step 3: Consular Interview Abroad

Your spouse will attend an interview at a U.S. embassy or consulate in their home country. A consular officer will review the application and ask questions about the marriage and background information.


If approved, your spouse will receive an immigrant visa, allowing them to enter the United States as a lawful permanent resident. Their physical green card will be mailed after arrival.


How Long Does the Process Take?

Processing times vary depending on:

  • Whether the sponsor is a U.S. citizen or green card holder
  • USCIS and NVC backlogs
  • The U.S. consulate handling the interview

In general, the process may take several months to over a year. Proper filing and accurate documentation can help reduce avoidable delays.


Common Challenges When Sponsoring a Spouse Abroad

Some common issues couples encounter include:

  • Incomplete or inconsistent documentation
  • Financial eligibility concerns
  • Prior immigration violations
  • Requests for additional evidence
  • Interview delays or administrative processing

Working with an immigration attorney can help you address these issues early and keep your case moving forward.


How RGP Law Firm PLLC Can Help

Attorney Rachelle R. Grand-Pierre, Esq. assists individuals and families with family-based immigration matters, including spousal sponsorships from outside the United States. She works closely with clients to prepare petitions, gather required documents, and guide them through consular processing from start to finish.


RGP Law Firm PLLC proudly serves clients in Orlando, Florida and nationwide, offering compassionate and detail-oriented legal support throughout the immigration journey.


Speak With a Family-Based Immigration Attorney in Orlando

If you are ready to begin the process of sponsoring your spouse for a green card from outside the U.S., legal guidance can make a meaningful difference.


Call RGP Law Firm PLLC at 407-305-7271 to schedule a consultation and take the next step toward reuniting with your spouse in the United States.