Green Card for spouse of American citizen?

Question

My husband has found an (overly simplified) document explaining the process of how he, a French citizen can get a Green Card thanks to me, his American wife. However, this document just makes it seem waaaay to easy. We live in France now and got married in France. Has anyone been through a similar situation so that they can shed some light?

Also, this document says that you apply for the visa and then you must go to the US within 6 months of getting the visa to have it validated. Then you continue the Green Card process. It doesn't specify whether you must live in the US or not during this period. In my opinion, you can't get a Green Card if you're not going to actually be living in the US. Husband disagrees... help!

Answer 1

You have to be in the US for 6 months or more out of the year - otherwise you forfeit your LPR status.  However, you can stay for up to year outside the country if you ask USCIS for permission in advance by citing the circumstances that kept you from returning to the US.

LPR= lawful permanent resident

Answer 2

You do not have to live in the US to get a green card. However, after you get one you have to visit the US every six months in order to keep it valid. Also, the green card expires after ten years and they will not renew it if you show no sign of wanting to move here.