The spousal I-130 petition remains one of the fastest family-based immigration categories. Average processing time in 2025:
- 10–14 months for cases processed inside the U.S.
- 12–20 months for consular processing cases. What affects the timeline?
- The USCIS service center assigned
- Country of consular interview
- RFEs or missing documents
- Background checks and previous marriages If the spouse is inside the U.S. and qualifies for Adjustment of Status, they can typically get a work permit while waiting.