The permanent resident must file I-130 with service center to begin process
the permanent resident must file I-130 with service center to begin process. when approved, the national visa center will hold the I-130 until the visa becomes available, when it will be forwarded to the office nearest where the spouse resides. When the visa becomes available, the spouse should file I-485 with local district office. Because the waivers are different for spouses of permanent residents than for spouses of US citizens, the spouse must maintain valid immigration status until the I-485 is approved. If spouse is illegal alien or out of status, good idea to contact an immigration attorney.