Green Card Through Marriage
Once they were in a committed relationship, Liz and Fernando began discussing the green card process as a necessary step toward the future they both wanted to share. Eager to get the application started, they decided to elope, and over the course of the following year, they navigated bureaucratic hurdles and unexpected delays—relying on community support, careful planning, and their attorney’s guidance. Over a year after starting the process, Fernando’s green card was approved and he and Liz are looking forward to the many adventures on the horizon.
Themes in this story: Communicating with a partner about pursuing a green card, managing the application process timeline, coping with delays and uncertainty, submitting evidence, preparing for the interview, staying motivated, dreams to travel
Read Liz & Fernando’s story here
Green Card Through Marriage
After finding a partner that made him feel safe and comfortable, Alex decided to pursue a green card through marriage. Over the course of the next several months, he navigated challenges with his attorney and learned the importance of a second opinion. Unsure of how he and his partner might be treated as a queer couple, Alex went into the interview feeling anxious, but was relieved when the officer proved to be polite and efficient. A few weeks after the interview, he officially became a legal permanent resident granting him some stability and the space to focus on his graduate school career.
Themes in this story: Communicating with a partner about pursuing a green card, choosing an attorney, fear of discrimination, the green card interview, sense of stability after approval, advice for people starting the process
Read Alex’s story here
Green Card Through Marriage
Over the years, Luís had multiple screenings that left him feeling discouraged about his legalization options, until a more in-depth consultation determined he was eligible for a green card through marriage. After sending out several inquiries, he and his partner Vanessa found an attorney that suited their needs and guided them through the process, including the interview, which turned out to be straightforward and positive. Now, while adjusting to the logistical and emotional transitions of Luís' new status as a green card holder, they feel a deep sense of relief, gratitude, and renewed possibility for their future together.
Themes in this story: Legal consultations, deciding to pursue a green card, finding an attorney, setting clear expectations, preparing documents and evidence, navigating the interview process, never-ending paperwork, adjusting to life after approval
Read Luís & Vanessa’s story here
Green Card Through Marriage
A long-time immigrant rights advocate and organizer, Daniel was resistant to the idea of a green card through marriage until he met his now wife and decided to propose. The couple married during the COVID lockdown, and after navigating several hurdles, Daniel was approved for a green card. He then went on to apply for citizenship and naturalized a few years later. Today, Daniel feels privileged to have legal status while remaining acutely aware of the many people in his life who don’t have the same protections.
Themes in this story: Becoming an organizer, dating while undocumented, choosing to pursue a green card through marriage, preparing and refiling documentation, medical exam complications, interview preparation and uncertainty, long periods of waiting, identity adjustment after approval
Read Daniel’s story here