Legal Question in Immigration Law in Maryland

Re: How to get green card

Your wife should have filed a petition on your behalf, even if you are in Bermuda. When the petition is approved, you can consular process into the U.S. and be admitted as a lawful permanent resident. This, of course, depends on whether or not you are eligible for admission which will be determined by the Dept. of State. After you are approved, then you would apply for citizenship after 2 yrs. 9 mos. as a lawful permanent resident, via your U.S. citizen spouse. There are a number of lawyers who might help you, but for the fact that there may be some issues raised in your case that need to be addressed. Get your wife to find a good immigration lawyer. Good luck!

Re: How to get green card

Generally speaking, one must actually live in the United States for 3 years immediately prior to applying for citizenship ("naturalization"). You must also already be a permanent resident -- i.e., have a green card -- and have been one for at least 3 years (5 years if you got your green card other than through marriage to a US citizen). So if you want to become a US citizen, you'll first have to get your green card, hold that for 3 years while living in the US, and then apply for citizenship. There are numerous other requirements and things to watch out for, but those are the general steps.