Timeline for Adjustment of Status Through Marriage in 2025

The process begins when you submit your adjustment of status packet to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). This packet typically includes Form I-130 (Petition for Alien Relative) and Form I-485 (Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status). As of March 5, 2026, USCIS requires the 08/21/25 edition of Form I-765 and maintains specific edition requirements for Form I-485 (Source: USCIS.gov).

Once your application arrives, you should receive the receipt notices within 2 to 4 weeks. These notices, also known as Form I-797, confirm that the agency has accepted your forms and is officially processing your case. It is vital to keep these documents safe, as they contain your receipt number, which allows you to track your progress through the online portal.

Approximately four to eight weeks after filing, you will receive a notice to attend a biometrics appointment. For those living in the Chicago area, this usually takes place at a local Application Support Center (ASC), such as the one located on South Canal Street. During this brief visit, officials collect your fingerprints, photograph, and signature to conduct mandatory background and security checks.

While the background check runs, you may also be waiting for your employment authorization document (EAD) and travel permit. In early 2026, median processing times for work permits (Form I-765) have improved significantly, with many family-based applicants now approved in under 2 months.

The longest phase of the timeline for adjustment of status through marriage in 2026 is the period between biometrics and the interview. In Chicago, family-based adjustment cases currently have a median processing time of roughly 8.5 months, though individual factors can vary this. During this time, the agency reviews your eligibility and the “bona fides” of your marriage.

You might receive a Request for Evidence (RFE) if the officer determines your initial submission was missing information. Common RFEs involve the Form I-864 (Affidavit of Support) or the Form I-693 (Medical Exam). Under the current policy updated in 2025, a Form I-693 is generally valid only for the specific immigration benefit application for which it was originally submitted (Source: USCIS Policy Alert).

For many couples, the interview is the final hurdle. This meeting typically takes place at the USCIS Chicago Field Office located at 101 West Congress Parkway. A dedicated officer will ask questions to ensure the marriage is genuine and not entered into solely for immigration benefits. They may ask about your daily routines, shared financial responsibilities, or how you met.

While some interviews are waived for couples who provide extensive evidence of their shared life, the agency has maintained high scrutiny in 2026 to identify potential fraud. It is helpful to arrive prepared with original documents, such as joint bank statements, lease agreements, and photos that reflect your relationship over time.

If the officer approves your case at the end of the interview, you can expect to receive your physical green card in the mail within a few weeks. Most applicants see their physical card arrive within 30 to 90 days of approval (Source: USCIS). If your marriage is less than two years old on the day of approval, you will receive a conditional green card valid for two years. This status is a temporary testing period to ensure the marriage remains genuine.

You must file Form I-751 (Petition to Remove Conditions on Residence) during the 90-day window immediately before that card expires (Source: USCIS.gov). Failing to file this petition on time can lead to the automatic termination of your permanent resident status and the start of removal proceedings. As of 2026, processing times for removing these conditions can range from 10 to 23 months, making timely filing essential to avoid gaps in your legal standing. 

The legal landscape is constantly shifting, and we stay at the forefront of these changes to better serve you. Our legal team provides an approachable environment where you can get the attention you deserve. Whether you prefer a modern, digital-first experience using our electronic case management systems or need more guidance throughout the process, we adapt to your needs.

Our team is passionate about keeping families together. We offer free consultations to help you understand your options without any initial financial pressure. Our legal professionals believe in being open-minded and accessible, ensuring you can connect with us whenever you have concerns about your case.

If you are ready to begin your application or have questions about your specific timeline, we are here to help. At Gilliam Law, we act as your dedicated advocate, fighting to secure a favorable outcome for your future in the United States.

Contact our law firm today at 866-511-3422 to schedule your free consultation.