Hi, hope I can finally get help here. I'm an H1-B holder and my company is about to start filing for my green card. However I'm engaged to be married in August (2001) and I'd like my wife to work ASAP; does she need to be married to me BEFORE my company starts the green card process? How long does it generally take before she can work? Will I run into problems getting her a work permit if we get married DURING the 1st or 2nd stage of the green card process? Thanks in advance.

Dear the_groom:

You state that your company is "about to start filing" for your green card. This process involves several steps, including labor certification, I-140 visa petition, and finally an application for adjustment of status. This can take 2-4 years. Not until you file for adjustment of status would your wife be able to obtain a work permit.

Therefore, you can marry her at any time, up until the date that you are finally approved for permanent residence. However, to get her a work permit in the fastest time possible, she should be married to you when you file your application for adjustment of status. At that time she would also file for adjustment as your accompanying spouse. Good luck.

Hello, I'd like to thank you for your time.

I filled out an I360 form. For religious purposes.The form was received on august 6 2002. They said that this usually takes from 365 to 425 days to process.

Is there anything i can do before that time to get a ssn or a traveling permit?

Thanx again.

If my 17year old girlfriend from suriname enters US on a visitor visa. Can I marry her here and she remain in the states untill approval after I apply for the adjustment status I am a permanent resident for 11/2 yrs.