The short answer
Both are immigrant visas for spouses of U.S. citizens. CR-1 is for marriages that are less than two years old when you are admitted, and gives a conditional two-year green card. IR-1 is for marriages that are two years or older, and gives a standard green card.
What to know
- CR-1: you must later file to remove the conditions.
- IR-1: no conditions to remove.
- The steps and interview are the same.
- The marriage date on your certificate decides which one you get.
For the exact rules, forms and fees, see the State Department visa website.
Visa Status is an unofficial site. This is general information in plain words, not legal advice. Rules, fees and forms change, so check the official website and your own papers. Written October 2026.