I’m from Botswana and currently living in Montana on an F-1 student visa. I recently got married to a US citizen, but I’m still in school and my program doesn’t end for another year. I’m trying to figure out the best time to apply for a green card through marriage. Should I file for adjustment of status now while I’m still studying, or wait until after graduation? I’m also worried about how this might affect my ability to travel internationally for family visits during school breaks. What’s the safest approach so I don’t risk my visa or green card application?

Question

Aisulu Nurpeisova · Accepted Answer

You can apply for adjustment of status now, but be mindful that travel can be tricky once you file.

Zubair Qureshi · Answer

If you file now, get advance parole before traveling outside the US.

Sibongile Mthembu · Answer

Filing now can work, especially since marriage to a US citizen makes you an immediate relative, which means no visa backlog. However, once you file, your F-1 status is less relevant and you’ll need advance parole to re-enter the country after travel. Waiting until after graduation might give you more flexibility, but it also delays your green card process. It really comes down to whether travel freedom or faster residency is your priority.

Boitumelo Mokgosi

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