How to Apply for a CR1 and IR1 Spouse Visa and get approved in 2025

Understanding the CR1 and IR1 spouse visa process is crucial to ensuring that you have a smooth transition to bring your spouse to the U.S. These visas allow your loved one to join you in the U.S. and begin building your life together. But the process can feel overwhelming, with paperwork, interviews, and strict requirements.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to apply for a CR1 or IR1 spouse visa and get approved in 2025. We’ll cover eligibility requirements, step-by-step application instructions, and practical tips to increase your chances of success.

By the end, you’ll have a clear understanding of how to sponsor your spouse, avoid common pitfalls, and achieve your goal of living together in the U.S. as a married couple. Let’s get started.

What Are CR1 and IR1 Spouse Visas?

CR1 and IR1 spouse visas are immigrant visas designed to reunite married couples by allowing a foreign spouse to join their U.S. citizen partner in the United States as a lawful permanent resident. These visas cater to individuals married to U.S. citizens and are processed through the family-based immigration system. Understanding the purpose and differences between these two visa types is vital for a successful application.

The CR1 visa (Conditional Resident Visa) is issued to spouses who have been married for less than two years at the time of visa approval. This visa grants conditional permanent residency for two years, after which the couple must jointly file to remove the conditions and prove their marriage is genuine. On the other hand, the IR1 visa (Immediate Relative Visa) is for spouses married for more than two years at the time of approval. It provides the foreign spouse with immediate permanent residency without the two-year conditional requirement.

Both visas are crucial pathways for U.S. citizens sponsoring their spouses from countries in Africa, Asia, Europe, or other regions. They allow the foreign spouse to live and work in the U.S. legally, with the same rights as other green card holders. Choosing the correct visa depends on the length of your marriage and ensuring all application requirements are met. By securing a CR1 or IR1 visa, you’re not just bringing your spouse to the U.S.; you’re laying the foundation for a stable and united family life.

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CR1 vs. IR1: Key Differences You Need to Know

Both visas allow a foreign spouse to join their U.S. citizen partner in the United States, but they differ in eligibility, residency conditions, and timelines. Below, we break down the key differences between the CR1 and IR1 visas;

Criteria	CR1 Visa (Conditional Resident Visa)	IR1 Visa (Immediate Relative Visa)
Marriage Duration	Married for less than two years at the time of visa approval.	Married for more than two years at the time of visa approval.
Residency Status	Grants conditional permanent residency for two years.	Grants immediate permanent residency with no conditions.
Removal of Conditions	Requires filing Form I-751 to remove conditions after two years.	No need to file to remove conditions; permanent status is granted.
Validity of Green Card	An initial green card is valid for two years.	An initial green card is valid for ten years.
Eligibility for Citizenship	Must first remove conditions, then apply for naturalization.	Can apply for naturalization as soon as eligible (3 years of residency).

The main difference lies in the conditional residency aspect of the CR1 visa, which requires additional steps to prove the authenticity of the marriage after two years. The IR1 visa, on the other hand, streamlines the process for couples with longer marriages by granting immediate permanent residency without conditions.

Eligibility Requirements

To successfully apply for a CR1 or IR1 spouse visa in 2025, both the sponsoring U.S. citizen and the foreign spouse must meet specific eligibility criteria.  Below, we outline the key eligibility requirements for CR1 and IR1 spouse visas to help you prepare.

1. Valid Marriage Certificate

You must provide evidence of a legally recognized marriage. This means your marriage must be valid under the laws of the country where it took place. Ceremonial marriages, civil unions, or traditional marriages are acceptable as long as they are legally binding. For couples who were previously married, proof of the termination of any prior marriages (e.g., divorce decrees or death certificates) is required.

2. U.S. Citizenship of the Sponsor

Only U.S. citizens can sponsor their foreign spouse for a CR1 or IR1 visa. Sponsors must provide proof of citizenship, such as a valid U.S. passport, birth certificate, or naturalization certificate. Permanent residents (green card holders) cannot apply for these visas but may pursue other family-based immigration options.

3. Bona Fide Marriage Evidence

The couple must demonstrate that their marriage is genuine and not entered into solely for immigration purposes. Evidence such as joint financial accounts, photos, travel itineraries, correspondence, and affidavits from family or friends can help prove the authenticity of your relationship.

4. Financial Requirements

The U.S. citizen sponsor must meet income requirements to prove they can financially support their spouse. Sponsors must submit an Affidavit of Support (Form I-864) showing an income at least 125% above the U.S. poverty guideline for their household size. If the sponsor does not meet this requirement, a joint sponsor may be used.

5. No Criminal or Immigration Violations

Applicants and sponsors should not have any disqualifying criminal history or prior immigration violations that could impact their eligibility. For instance, applicants with prior visa overstays or fraudulent activities may face additional scrutiny.

6. Residence Outside the U.S. (for the Foreign Spouse)

The foreign spouse must currently reside outside the United States when applying for the CR1 or IR1 visa. If they are already in the U.S., they may need to pursue adjustment of status instead of consular processing.

7. Length of Marriage (for Visa Type Eligibility)

The length of the marriage determines whether the spouse qualifies for a CR1 or IR1 visa.

• CR1 Visa: Married less than two years.
• IR1 Visa: Married for two or more years.

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Step-by-Step Guide: How to Apply for a CR1 or IR1 Spouse Visa

Applying for a CR1 or IR1 spouse visa can seem complex, but breaking it down into clear, actionable steps makes the process more manageable. Below is a detailed guide that explains each critical phase, from gathering the required documents to submitting your application and supporting evidence to the National Visa Center (NVC).

1. Gathering Necessary Documents

The first step in applying for a CR1 or IR1 spouse visa is assembling all the required documentation. Proper organization ensures a smoother application process and reduces the risk of delays. Key documents include:

• Marriage Certificate: Proof of a legally valid marriage.
• Proof of U.S. Citizenship: The sponsor must provide documents such as a U.S. passport, birth certificate, or naturalization certificate.
• Evidence of Bona Fide Marriage: Photos, travel records, joint financial accounts, and affidavits from friends or family.
• Divorce Decrees or Death Certificates: If applicable, to show the termination of prior marriages.
• Police Clearance Certificate: The foreign spouse must provide police records from their country of residence.
• Passport: A valid passport for the foreign spouse, with at least six months of validity.
• Affidavit of Support (Form I-864): Proof that the sponsor meets the financial requirements.

Having these documents ready before starting the application ensures there are no unnecessary delays.

2. Completing the Online Visa Application (Form DS-260)

The next step involves completing the DS-260 Online Immigrant Visa Application, the official form required for all immigrant visa applicants.

• Access the DS-260 Form: This can be done on the Consular Electronic Application Center (CEAC) website.
• Provide Accurate Information: Enter details about the foreign spouse, including personal information, address history, employment history, and marital status.
• Upload a Digital Photo: Ensure the photo meets the U.S. visa requirements for size and quality.
• Submit the Form: Once complete, submit the form and save the confirmation page. You’ll need this for the next steps.

Accuracy is crucial here, as any mistakes may lead to delays or rejections.

3. Submitting Supporting Evidence to the NVC

After submitting the DS-260, the National Visa Center (NVC) will request supporting documents to process your application. Follow these steps:

• Create an NVC Case File: You’ll receive a case number after submitting the petition, which allows you to upload documents online.
• Submit Financial Evidence: Upload the Affidavit of Support (Form I-864) and supporting financial documents, such as tax returns, W-2 forms, and proof of income.
• Provide Civil Documents: Include the marriage certificate, police clearance, birth certificates, and divorce decrees (if applicable).
• Pay Visa Fees: The NVC requires payment of the visa application fee and affidavit of support fee, which can be done online.
• Track Your Case Status: Once submitted, monitor your case on the CEAC portal to see when it moves to the next stage.

Costs Involved in Applying for a CR1 or IR1 Spouse Visa

1. USCIS Filing Fee for Form I-130

The first expense in the process is the I-130 Petition for Alien Relative filing fee. This fee is paid to the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) when the U.S. citizen sponsor files the petition to establish the marital relationship.

• Cost: $535

2. National Visa Center (NVC) Fees

After the I-130 petition is approved, the case moves to the National Visa Center (NVC), where additional fees are required:

• Affidavit of Support Fee (Form I-864): $120
• Immigrant Visa Application Fee (Form DS-260): $325
• Total NVC Fees: $445

3. Medical Examination and Vaccination Costs

Before the visa interview, the foreign spouse must undergo a medical examination performed by an approved physician. Vaccinations required by U.S. immigration law may also be administered during the examination.

• Cost: $200–$500, depending on the country and specific medical requirements

4. Police Clearance Certificate

The foreign spouse is required to submit police clearance certificates from every country they have lived in for more than six months since the age of 16.

• Cost: Varies by country (typically $20–$100 per certificate)

5. Travel Expenses

The foreign spouse must travel to the U.S. Embassy or Consulate for the visa interview. This may involve costs for transportation, accommodation, and meals, especially if the embassy is located far from their residence.

• Cost: Varies by location (average $50–$500)

6. Translation and Notarization Fees

If any required documents are not in English, they must be translated and certified. Notarization of certain documents may also be necessary.

• Cost: $20–$100 per document

7. Immigration Fee

After the visa is approved, the foreign spouse must pay the USCIS Immigrant Fee before entering the United States to cover the cost of producing their green card.

• Cost: $220

8. Additional Costs to Consider

Other potential expenses include:

• Attorney Fees: If you hire an immigration attorney, fees can range from $1,500 to $5,000.
• Document Preparation Costs: Photocopying, mailing, and other administrative expenses may add $50–$200.

Summary of Costs

Here is an estimated breakdown of the total costs for a CR1 or IR1 visa application in 2025:

Category	Estimated Cost
I-130 Filing Fee	$535
NVC Fees	$445
Medical Exams and Vaccinations	$200–$500
Police Clearance Certificate	$20–$100
Translation and Notarization	$20–$100
Travel for Visa Interview	$50–$500
USCIS Immigrant Fee	$220
Total (Approximate)	$1,470–$2,300