CR1 and IR1 Spouse Visas, Explained — A TRW Law Firm Guide to U.S. Spousal Immigration (2025 Edition)
What Are CR1 and IR1 Spousal Visas?
A CR1 or IR1 spouse visa is a type of U.S. immigrant visa that allows a foreign spouse of a U.S. citizen (or, in some cases, lawful permanent resident) to permanently live and work in the United States. The specific designation depends on the length of the marriage at the time of visa issuance:
- CR1 (Conditional Resident): Issued if the couple has been married for less than two years.
- IR1 (Immediate Relative): Issued if the couple has been married for two years or more.
Key Differences: CR1 vs. IR1
| Visa Type | Eligibility | Validity | Conditions |
|---|---|---|---|
| CR1 | Marriage under 2 years | 2 years | Must file Form I-751 to remove conditions |
| IR1 | Marriage 2+ years | 10 years | No conditional period |
Processing Time
Current estimated wait times (as of 2025):
- CR1/IR1 (spouse of U.S. citizen): 10–14.5 months
- CR1/IR1 (spouse of green card holder): 30–35 months
Average processing time for Form I-130 (Petition for Alien Relative): ~16 months, depending on the USCIS service center.
CR1/IR1 Visa Requirements
To qualify for a CR1 or IR1 visa:
✅ The sponsor must be a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident ✅ The couple must be legally married (civil marriage certificate required) ✅ The marriage must be genuine, not solely for immigration benefits ✅ The sponsor must:
- File Form I-130
- Provide an Affidavit of Support (Form I-864)
- Prove U.S. domicile
- Meet the income threshold (125% of Federal Poverty Guidelines)
If the sponsor cannot meet the income requirement alone, a joint sponsor may be used.
Costs for CR1/IR1 Visas
| Category | Fee |
| Form I-130 (Petition) | $675 |
| DS-260 Immigrant Visa Form | $325 |
| Medical Exam (Varies) | $200–$500 |
| Document Authentication | Varies by country |
| Form I-751 (for CR1 holders) | $750 (removal of conditions) |
Additional costs include translation services, passport issuance, travel expenses, and certified copies.
Application Process: Step-by-Step
Step 1: File Form I-130 with USCIS
- Submitted by U.S. citizen or LPR spouse
Step 2: Wait for USCIS processing (10–16 months typical)
Step 3: If approved, case sent to the National Visa Center (NVC)
- Pay fees and submit Form DS-260
- Submit financial evidence, civil documents, and passport-style photos
Step 4: Attend Medical Exam
- Conducted by a panel physician approved by the U.S. embassy or consulate
Step 5: CR1/IR1 Visa Interview at U.S. Embassy/Consulate
- Bring originals and certified translations of all required documents
- Answer questions regarding relationship and future plans
Step 6: Visa Issuance & Travel
- If approved, visa valid for 6 months from date of medical exam
- Green card mailed to U.S. address within 2–3 months of arrival
After Arrival in the U.S.
Work Authorization: CR1/IR1 holders can work immediately upon entry without applying for separate work authorization.
Travel Flexibility: Visa stamp and subsequent green card allow travel in and out of the U.S.
Conditional Green Card (CR1 only):
- Valid for 2 years
- Must file Form I-751 within 90 days before expiration
Permanent Green Card (IR1):
- Valid for 10 years
- Renewable without conditions
Removing Conditions (CR1 Holders Only)
File Form I-751 jointly with your spouse (or with a waiver if divorced/abused) with:
- Evidence of continued marriage (joint finances, photos, children, etc.)
- Copy of green card (front and back)
- $750 filing fee + biometrics fee (if required)
Important: Late filing without reasonable cause may lead to loss of status.
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
❌ Submitting incomplete or inconsistent documentation
❌ Missing critical forms (I-864, DS-260, birth certificates, etc.)
❌ Failing to meet financial sponsorship criteria
❌ Ignoring USCIS/NVC communication or deadlines
❌ Missing the I-751 deadline for CR1 holders
❌ Not informing USCIS of address changes
CR1 / IR1 Visa FAQs
Q: Can I work in the U.S. with a CR1/IR1 visa?
A: Yes, you are work-authorized as soon as you enter with your immigrant visa.
Q: What is the difference between CR1 and IR1?
A: CR1 is for marriages under 2 years (conditional), IR1 is for 2+ years (10-year card).
Q: What happens if I get divorced on a CR1 visa?
A: You must file Form I-751 with a waiver showing the marriage was entered in good faith.
Q: What are the benefits of CR1 over K-1 fiancé visa?
A: CR1 allows work/travel immediately upon arrival and results in a green card. K-1 requires adjustment of status afterward.
Q: Can I apply for citizenship on a CR1/IR1 visa?
A: Yes, after 3 years of continuous residence with your U.S. citizen spouse.
Q: What documents are needed?
- Valid passport (6+ months)
- Form I-130, DS-260, I-864
- Medical exam report
- Marriage and birth certificates
- Police certificates
- 2×2 photos
Q: What if I was abused during the marriage?
A: You may self-petition to remove conditions (I-751 waiver) with evidence of abuse.
Q: Do same-sex couples qualify?
A: Yes. U.S. law treats same-sex and opposite-sex marriages equally for immigration purposes.
Why Choose TRW Law Firm
At TRW Law Firm, we handle:
- Full CR1/IR1 spouse visa application preparation
- Petition filings (I-130, DS-260, I-751)
- Consular correspondence and embassy scheduling
- Interview coaching and affidavit drafting
- Waiver applications in case of abuse or divorce
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