I Am an Alien with a Criminal Conviction, Can I apply for a Green Card If My Spouse is a US Citizen?

Most minor traffic offenses and parking tickets do not affect an alien's ability to complete the green card process. Aliens convicted of certain crimes may or may not be able to obtain adjustment of status, depending on the nature of the conviction. More severe crimes and felonies may affect an alien's ability to obtain or even retain his or her green card. Violent crimes and crimes involving fraud and moral turpitude may hurt an alien's chances of obtaining permanent residence. Since the determination depends very much on the specific nature of the charge and conviction, Aliens with a conviction should obtain the entire criminal case file from the courthouse and set an appointment with an experienced immigration attorney who will review the facts and circumstances surrounding the conviction and render an opinion.