Immigration News Update: USCIS Tightens Rules for Marriage-Based Green Cards

U.S. immigration authorities are significantly tightening enforcement and scrutiny around marriage-based green card applications. While the underlying law has not changed, new procedures and stricter vetting standards mean couples must now provide far more detailed proof that their marriage is genuine—or risk denial, delays, or even detention in certain cases.

At the center of these changes is U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, which has expanded fraud-prevention efforts and raised the burden of proof for applicants.

What’s Changed: Stricter Vetting & Enforcement

1. Mandatory Interviews & Deeper Background Checks

All marriage-based green card cases should now expect mandatory in-person interviews. Officers are conducting more extensive background checks, which may include reviewing social media activity and online presence to assess the legitimacy of the relationship.

2. Heightened Focus on Marriage Fraud

USCIS officers are no longer satisfied with minimal documentation. Applications are being examined for consistency, credibility, and depth of evidence. Couples must clearly demonstrate that their marriage is bona fide—entered into for love, not immigration benefits.

3. No Automatic Lawful Status

Approval of a petition does not automatically protect an applicant from immigration consequences. Individuals who were out of status before their interview face increased scrutiny and, in some cases, a risk of detention if issues arise during processing.

4. Stricter Filing Procedures & Fees

Each required form—such as Form I-130 (Petition for Alien Relative) and Form I-485 (Adjustment of Status)—now requires separate payments. Applicants must also clearly specify whether they are applying through adjustment of status (inside the U.S.) or consular processing (outside the U.S.).

Evidence USCIS Now Expects (Beyond the Basics)

Couples should be prepared to submit extensive, well-organized documentation, including:

• Joint Financial Records

  Shared bank accounts, joint tax returns, credit cards, insurance policies

• Proof of Shared Residence

  Lease or mortgage agreements, utility bills, official mail to the same address

• Relationship History

  Photos across different dates and events, travel itineraries, communication logs

• Affidavits

  Sworn statements from friends or family confirming the authenticity of the relationship

Tip: USCIS strongly encourages applicants to upload recent and updated evidence—such as new photos or financial statements—to their online USCIS account before the interview.

Additional Areas Under Scrutiny

• Cohabitation Matters

  Couples not living together face increased questioning and investigation.

• Public Charge Review

  Financial stability, English proficiency, and health factors may be evaluated more closely.

• Travel Restrictions

  Some applicants from certain countries may experience processing delays or travel holds.

The marriage-based green card process has not been rewritten—but the enforcement climate has changed dramatically. USCIS officers now have broader authority and are demanding strong, real-world proof that a marriage is legitimate. Applications that lack sufficient evidence or contain inconsistencies are more likely than ever to be denied.

Preparation, documentation, and transparency are now critical. Couples are strongly advised to organize their evidence carefully and consult a qualified immigration attorney if there are any concerns—especially for applicants who were previously out of status.

Stay informed with the latest immigration updates at Caribbean E-Magazine.