I am a US citizen married to a foreign graduate student in the US on an F-1 visa. I understand that to get him permanent status in the US we need to submit a I-130 and I-485 (and G-325A, I-864, I-693). I have three questions that I have not figured out by reading other posts:
1) While the adjustment of status is being processed, is his F1 visa still in effect? It is important to us that there are no gaps in his ability to continue his studies and receive his stipend.
2) Is he able to travel outside of the country, to attend conferences for example? Is this the purpose of the Advance Parole request? How long does it take to receive this?
3) I know that there are no guarantees on this- but how long does this whole process usually take to get permanent resident status with employment authorization? Relevant factors might be -I am a US citizen, he is already in the US, and he is from a country with good relations with the US (have no idea if this matters)
Thanks so much

