CR1 vs IR1 Visa: The Complete Guide to Spousal Green Cards
When a U.S. citizen marries a foreign national, the foreign spouse may be eligible for a CR-1 or IR-1 spousal visa, both of which lead to lawful permanent residency (a Green Card). Although these two visa types share many similarities, they differ in eligibility, conditions, and processing requirements.
In this comprehensive guide, the immigration attorneys at Green Card Link explain everything you need to know about CR-1 vs IR-1 visas—including eligibility, application procedures, costs, and how to choose the right option for your situation.
What Is a CR-1 Visa?
The CR-1 (Conditional Resident) visa is designed for foreign spouses who have been married to a U.S. citizen for less than two years.
This visa grants conditional permanent residency for two years. Before the end of that period, the couple must jointly file Form I-751, Petition to Remove Conditions on Residence, to prove the marriage is genuine and continue permanent residency. Once approved, the spouse receives a 10-year Green Card.
Eligibility Requirements for CR-1 Visa:
- You must be legally married to a U.S. citizen for less than two years.
- Your U.S. citizen spouse must be able to financially sponsor or co-sponsor your visa.
If you’re ready to begin the process, the immigration attorneys at Green Card Link can guide you through each stage, ensuring your petition is prepared accurately and efficiently.
What Is an IR-1 Visa?
The IR-1 (Immediate Relative) visa applies to foreign spouses who have been married to a U.S. citizen for two years or longer. Unlike the CR-1, there are no conditional requirements—successful applicants receive a 10-year permanent resident card immediately.
Eligibility Requirements for IR-1 Visa:
- You must be legally married to a U.S. citizen for more than two years.
- Your spouse must meet the financial sponsorship requirements for immigration.
Whether you are pursuing a CR-1 or IR-1 visa, Green Card Link offers end-to-end legal support to make your family reunification process smoother and stress-free.
CR-1 vs IR-1: Key Differences at a Glance
Feature | CR-1 Visa | IR-1 Visa |
Marriage Duration | Less than 2 years | More than 2 years |
Residency Type | Conditional (2 years) | Permanent (10 years) |
Removal of Conditions | Required (Form I-751) | Not required |
Green Card Validity | 2 years initially | 10 years immediately |
Sponsorship Requirements for CR-1 and IR-1 Visas
To sponsor your spouse under either visa type, you must meet the following conditions:
- Be a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident.
- Prove that your marriage is bona fide, supported by legal documentation (marriage certificate, joint accounts, lease agreements, shared property, etc.).
- Meet the financial requirement of income at least 125% of the federal poverty level (approximately $26,000 for most households, though this varies by state and household size).
- Demonstrate U.S. domicile or intent to return to the U.S. with your spouse.
If the sponsoring spouse does not meet the financial threshold, a joint sponsor—another U.S. citizen or permanent resident—may submit an additional Affidavit of Support to meet the income requirement.
CR-1 and IR-1 Visa Costs
The total cost of applying for a CR-1 or IR-1 visa depends on several government fees and related expenses:
- Form I-130 (Petition for Alien Relative): $625 (online) or $675 (by mail)
- Form DS-260 (Immigrant Visa Application): $325
- Form I-864 (Affidavit of Support): $120
- Medical Examination: $100–$500 (varies by country)
- USCIS Immigrant Fee: $235
- Additional Costs: Vaccinations, translations, police certificates, and travel to the U.S. Embassy or Consulate
Before applying, Green Card Link recommends estimating all potential costs to prevent unexpected expenses later in the process.
Step-by-Step Application Process for CR-1 or IR-1 Visas
1. Check Eligibility
Before applying, Green Card Link recommends estimating all potential costs to prevent unexpected expenses later in the process.
2. File Form I-130 (Petition for Alien Relative)
Submit Form I-130 to establish your relationship with supporting documents such as proof of citizenship, a valid marriage certificate, and evidence of a bona fide marriage (shared leases, accounts, photos, etc.). If applicable, include divorce decrees or death certificates from prior marriages.
3. File Forms DS-260 and I-864
Once I-130 is approved, your case moves to the National Visa Center (NVC). You’ll complete Form DS-260 (Application for Immigrant Visa) and your spouse will submit Form I-864 (Affidavit of Support) along with proof of income and tax returns.
4. Submit to the NVC
Upload all forms and required documents to the NVC portal. You’ll later receive an interview appointment notice from your designated U.S. embassy or consulate.
5. Complete a Medical Examination
A physician approved by the U.S. embassy must conduct the medical exam before the interview. Check your embassy’s website for the list of authorized doctors.
6. Attend the Visa Interview
During the interview, a consular officer will verify your documents and assess the authenticity of your marriage. You must answer all questions truthfully under oath.
7. Receive Your Visa
If approved, your visa will be issued within a few days or weeks depending on location. You’ll receive your passport with the visa and a sealed envelope containing your immigration documents—do not open this envelope. Present it to the immigration officer when entering the U.S.
8. Visa Validity and Entry
The CR-1 or IR-1 visa is valid for six months from the medical exam date. After entry, your physical green card typically arrives within 12 months.
9. Removing Conditions (for CR-1 Holders Only)
CR-1 visa holders must file Form I-751 within 90 days before their two-year green card expires to remove conditions and transition to permanent resident status. This process requires proof that your marriage continues to be genuine.
Documents Required for a CR-1 and IR-1 Spousal Visa
Applying for a CR-1 or IR-1 spousal visa involves several important steps and document submissions. To ensure a smooth process, you must prepare and organize all required materials before filing. Below is a general list of documents commonly required for your spousal visa petition:
- Form I-130 (Petition for Alien Relative)
- Form DS-260 (Immigrant Visa Application)
- Cover letter summarizing your petition
- Marriage certificate and supporting evidence of a genuine marital relationship
- Proof that any prior marriage(s) have legally ended
- Standard passport-sized photos
- Copy of the U.S. citizen’s passport or proof of lawful permanent residence
- Completed medical examination forms
- Affidavit of Support (Form I-864) and related financial documents
- Additional records as required based on your individual background
At Green Card Link, its immigration attorneys carefully review every document to ensure completeness and accuracy, helping you minimize delays and maximize your chances of visa approval.
CR-1 and IR-1 Visa Interview Questions
During your spousal visa interview, a consular officer will assess the authenticity of your relationship and the accuracy of your application. Questions vary depending on your circumstances, but you can expect some of the following:
- How long have you and your spouse been together?
- Was your spouse previously married?
- What are your spouse’s parents’ full names?
- Where and how did you meet?
- What religion does your spouse practice?
- Do you get along with your spouse’s children (if applicable)?
- What is your spouse’s occupation?
- Why do you wish to live in the United States instead of your home country?
- Where do you and your spouse plan to live in the U.S.?
The immigration attorneys at Green Card Link can help you prepare for your interview with personalized guidance and mock sessions to build your confidence and readiness.
IR-1 and CR-1 Visa Processing Times
The processing time for CR-1 and IR-1 visas generally ranges between 16 and 24 months. The actual duration depends on several factors, including:
- The country where you filed your application
- Local embassy or consulate operations and potential disruptions (e.g., civil unrest or natural disasters)
- USCIS and NVC workload and application volume
- Any requests for additional documentation or corrections
Applicants can check the most up-to-date processing timelines directly on the USCIS website.
Typical Timeline for CR-1 and IR-1 Visa Application
Here’s an approximate timeline for each stage of your spousal visa process:
- 1–3 weeks: USCIS confirms receipt of your Form I-130
- Up to 14 months: USCIS reviews and makes a decision on your I-130 petition; if approved, your case moves to the National Visa Center (NVC)
- 3–5 weeks: NVC processes your DS-260 and supporting documents, then forwards your case to the designated U.S. embassy or consulate
- 1–6 months: You complete the medical examination and attend your visa interview
- 2–14 days: If approved, you receive your CR-1 or IR-1 visa
Total estimated time: 16 to 24 months
What to Do After Visa Approval
Once your spousal visa is approved:
- IR-1 Visa Holders: You’ll receive a 10-year permanent green card upon arrival in the U.S. Simply renew it upon expiration.
- CR-1 Visa Holders: You’ll receive a conditional green card valid for two years. You must file to remove these conditions within 90 days before your green card expires.
If you’re still considering applying for a spousal green card, the immigration attorneys at Green Card Link can support you from the very first step through final approval.
Frequently Asked Questions About CR-1 and IR-1 Visas
How long is a CR-1 visa valid?
A CR-1 visa grants conditional residency for two years. You must file Form I-751 to remove conditions before it expires, or risk losing your lawful status.
What is the average CR-1 visa processing time?
Processing can take 6–11 months, depending on the workload of USCIS, NVC, and your local U.S. consulate.
Who qualifies for a CR-1 visa?
You qualify if you’ve been married to a U.S. citizen for less than two years at the time of your entry. Those married longer than two years are typically eligible for the IR-1 (Immediate Relative) visa instead.
How long does a CR-1 visa last?
The CR-1 visa is valid for two years. To maintain permanent residency, you must remove conditions on your green card 90 days before it expires.
What is the difference between CR-1 and IR-1 visas?
The CR-1 visa applies to couples married for less than two years and grants a conditional two-year green card. The IR-1 visa applies to couples married for more than two years and provides a 10-year green card.
Which is better: K-1 or CR-1 visa?
While K-1 fiancé(e) visas are typically faster, CR-1 visas usually have higher approval rates and grant immediate work authorization upon entry.
Which is better: K-3 or CR-1 visa?
The CR-1 visa is generally preferable because it grants lawful permanent residency upon entry, while the K-3 is a temporary, non-immigrant visa requiring later adjustment of status.
Can you work on a CR-1 visa?
Yes. CR-1 visa holders can legally work in the U.S. once admitted as conditional permanent residents.
How long does an IR-1 visa take to process?
Typically 6–11 months, though timing depends on agency workload and embassy processing speeds.
What does an IR-1 visa mean on a green card?
An IR-1 visa allows the spouse of a U.S. citizen to live and work in the U.S. permanently, receiving a 10-year green card upon arrival.
Which is better: CR-1 or IR-1 visa?
The IR-1 visa offers an immediate 10-year green card, making it more advantageous than the conditional CR-1 visa.
How Green Card Link Can Help You
Bringing your spouse to the United States is a life-changing journey that requires attention to detail and expert guidance. At Green Card Link, our immigration attorneys are dedicated to helping families unite and navigate every step of the CR-1 and IR-1 visa process — from petition filing to interview preparation and final approval.
Ready to get started? Contact Green Card Link today and let our experienced legal team help make your American dream a reality.