J1 getting married to US citizen

[bridgettgg 0]

I am currently in the US on a j1 visa that expires on the 28th July 2019. My boyfriend and I want to get married and continue our lives here. 

 

What are the steps? 

How long does this take? When should we start paperwork in relation to my visa ending?

Will I need to stop working?

 

The 2-year Requirement does not apply to me. I am from Australia. 

[geowrian 22,337]

* Moved from Progress Report to P&P *

 

Guide: https://www.visajourney.com/content/i130guide2

Processing time varies by local field office. It could be anywhere form a few months to a couple years or so. Many are around a year right now.

 

The only way to remain lawfully present the entire time is to file before your authorized stay expires. Note this is not necessarily when the visa itself expires. In short, you should file before you would be required to leave if you weren't marrying a USC.

As long as you maintain status, you can continue to work in accordance with your existing status. Filing for AOS does not alter or cancel your status.

You can file for a work permit (EAD: form I-765). ETA: ~4-6 months from filing for AOS. When your J-1 status expires, you are no longer authorized to work without an EAD or green card.

 

Do not leave the US without AP (I-131) or a green card or else your AOS will be abandoned and you will need to get an immigrant visa abroad to return to the US.

Edited December 1, 2018 by geowrian