What Is the Best Visa for a Spouse?
The best visa for a spouse of a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident is the IR1 or CR1 immigrant visa.
- IR1 Visa (Immediate Relative): For spouses married for more than 2 years. It grants permanent residency with a 10-year Green Card.
- CR1 Visa (Conditional Resident): For spouses married for less than 2 years. It grants a 2-year conditional Green Card, which must later be converted to permanent status.
These visas allow the spouse to live, work, and travel in the U.S. as a lawful permanent resident. Compared to the K-3 (nonimmigrant) visa, the IR1/CR1 is more direct and leads to a Green Card faster.
Also, read >> Which Is Faster, K1 or Marriage Visa?