F-1 visa and now married

[samyhr]

Hello,

I got married in the UK to a US citizen. I am planning to go back to the US on an F-1 visa and attend college. My wife will stay in the UK for another two months because she currently works there. I would like to know if I have to inform anyone that I am married to a US citizen now. Also, when do you suggest that we file for an immigrant visa for me? We were planning to do that in summer because we are planning to go on vacation in my home country.

Thank you!

[PraetorianXI]

If you ALREADY have the F-1 visa, there is nobody you MUST notify, if you are applying for the visa, then you must put that informaton in your forms when you apply for it.

As far as when to apply for the Green Card. As soon as she gets to the USA, file I-130 and I-485.

[samyhr]

Thank you for the quick response! Is it necessary that we file for my status as soon as my wife returns to the US? Or can we wait a year?

[PraetorianXI]

You can wait a year or however long you want. BUT the PROBLEM is that if you leave as a student and intend to return to the US with the F-1 visa and your wife is now living in the USA, they may not grant you entry... because your wife could file for your GC and that makes you an immigrant trying to enter the USA with a non-immigrant visa.

The safest way to go is to apply right away. You will be able to continue your studies, apply for employment authorization and a travel document.