Yes, in most cases it is better for a married couple to choose
Married Filing Jointly filing status, even if one spouse had little or no
income. This allows you the possibility of claiming several tax credits that
are disallowed to Married Filing Separately filers. Your spouse is never considered your dependent, but by filing a joint return, you obtain the benefit of the larger joint Standard Deduction ($12,600) and both your and your spouse's Personal Exemptions ($4,050 per person).
Since your husband did not yet have his green card in 2016, I expect that his status is that of a non-resident alien. If he was a resident alien 2016, you may use
Married Filing Jointly status, by right. If your husband is a non-resident alien, you may
choose to take advantage of Married Filing Jointly status, but certain
conditions apply. More detail can be obtained here: IRS
Guidance on Filing with Nonresident Spouse.
