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Marriage-Based Green Card Approved Just 6 Months After Filing
What happens when a relationship that began in the workplace grows into a lifelong partnership — and a pathway to permanent residency?
Her Story
That was the reality for our client, who first met her U.S. citizen spouse while working together at Taco Bell. Over the years, their bond deepened, and despite ups and downs, they committed to building a life together. The couple married in August 2024 and began living together in Washington just a few months earlier in June 2024.
Our client from Jamaica entered the U.S. on a J-1 visa in May 2021, after previously coming on J-1 programs. She also experienced a prior tourist visa denial, but importantly, she was not subject to the two-year foreign residence requirement. Before marriage, no immigration filings had ever been made on her behalf, and she had no history of fraud or misrepresentation.
How We Helped
In February 2025, McBean Law filed her I-130 and I-485 applications based on her marriage to her U.S. citizen spouse. Although only her name appeared on the lease, her spouse’sidentification reflected the same address, and they maintained a joint bank account actively used for household expenses. Her spouse, employed as a W-2 worker, earned sufficient income to meet the affidavit of support requirement.
Despite this, USCIS mistakenly issued a Request for Evidence (RFE) for the affidavit of support in March 2025. We guided the couple in assembling a thorough response, which was submitted on time in June 2025.
The Outcome
The couple attended their interview on August 12, 2025, and the very next day — August 13, 2025 — her green card was approved.
From a J-1 visa to a prior denial and an unnecessary RFE, her journey shows that the right preparation and persistence can overcome obstacles. Today, she and her spouse are proud to begin their new chapter together in the United States.
Contact McBean Law for Immigration Relief
McBean Law, PLLC is a New York immigration law firm and your trusted partner in navigating the complexities of immigration law in the United States. With a focus on personalized support and a proven track record of success, our experienced team of immigration attorneys is here to help you achieve your dreams of a brighter future in the United States.
Every case is different. Prior results do not guarantee similar outcomes. Always consult with a licensed immigration attorney about your specific situation.
