Seagraves, TX Immigration Law Firms & Lawyers

You have to be a person of good moral character for at least 5 years, 3 years if you are applying on the basis of a marriage to a US citizen, immediately before filing for naturalization. That means you cannot have any convictions for crimes of moral turpitude or periods of probation during that time. If you were found guilty or plead guilty, even if you were given deferred adjudication and the charges were later dismissed, USCIS will most likely deny the application. Depending on the specifics of your case, there is a risk that your case may be referred to ICE for removal proceedings.

My recommendation would be to sit with an attorney who can provide the guidance that you will need to make an informed decision. Sounds to me like a fiance visa would be the best alternative available to you based in what you have provided in your inquiry. In a situation such as this, I think that you at best served by talking to someone who has handled applications like this in the past and who can provide you a nuts and bolts presentation on how it is done and the rough estimate of timelines require to get your applications filed, approved and to obtain visa issuance. This is not necessarily the most complicated of cases, but the assistance and guidance of a qualified attorney who can move things along and who can deal with any issues which may arise is probably your best bet. Sit with someone, ask questions and get the answers that you and your spouse need to make an informed decision. Good Luck.