As an immigration expert, I just have to jump in and say That's Not How Any Of This Works! And I hate it when tv shows have an opportunity to educate the audience and instead just put out more misinformation. In today's environment, some facts would be useful. Luisa cannot apply for her citizenship. As her husband, Cole can petition for her to receive a green card. If she is eligible (doesn't have felony convictions and meets other requirements), she has to then either a) adjust her status in the US, or she may have to b) leave the country to get her green card. Usually spouses can do option a, but not always. If she has to leave the US, she would be subject to a 10 year bar from reentering. This catch 22 is why many people who are eligible to get a green card and legalize their status may, in fact, choose to remain undocumented in the US. There is a hardship waiver to the 10 year bar available, but it's hard to prove eligibility. But Luisa isn't there yet. Cole has to petition for her first! Also, you have to have your green card for at least 3 years (if you get it through marriage) before you can apply for citizenship. To naturalize, you have to pass English and civics test, and pass background checks. In any case, Luisa and Cole need to hire an immigration lawyer who would take care of all of this for them. They can afford it. It would have been interesting to include the facts in this storyline, and some people may have learned something. Instead, we get The Affair.