QUESTION
Do I need to be a US citizen to petition my wife?
Asked on Sep 07th, 2014 on Immigration - Texas
More details to this question:
I'm still an immigrant. I stayed in the US for almost 15 years. I got married in the Philippines. Do I need to be a US citizen before I can get my wife? We are married for 2 years now.
3 ANSWERS
Criminal Defense Attorney serving Alhambra, CA
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Francis John Cowhig
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It depends. Are you a permanent resident. The waiting period for visa availability for the spouse of a permanent resident is approximately 20 months. There is no waiting period for the spouse of a U.S. citizen.
Answered on Sep 10th, 2014 at 5:41 AM
You need to be at least permanent resident. If you have a valid status in the US, you might get a dependent visa for her.
Answered on Sep 08th, 2014 at 9:15 AM
Bruce A. Coane
With regard to getting married in the Philippines, of course you can sponsor your wife, even if you are an immigrant. The problem is that there is a long quota before she could immigrate. It is much better if you are a USA citizen when there is no quota at all.
Answered on Sep 08th, 2014 at 9:13 AM