New USCIS Policy Demands Stronger Proof of Genuine Marriages to Curb Immigration Fraud.
The United States has tightened its green card process for married couples by implementing stricter verification requirements. The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) released updated guidance on August 1, aimed at combating fraudulent marriage-based immigration applications. These changes apply to both pending and newly filed family-based petitions.
🔍 Why the Policy Changed
According to USCIS, fraudulent family-based immigrant petitions undermine public trust in the legal immigration system. The agency emphasized the need to preserve family unity while safeguarding national security and immigration integrity.
“We are committed to keeping Americans safe by detecting aliens with potentially harmful intent,” USCIS stated.
đź“Ś Key Changes in the USCIS Green Card Process
USCIS has introduced several major updates to enhance scrutiny of marriage-based green card applications:
âś… Enhanced Documentation Requirements
Couples must now provide stronger evidence of a bona fide relationship, such as:
- Joint bank accounts and financial records
- Photos together over time
- Affidavits or letters from friends and family
- Proof of shared responsibilities (e.g., leases, utility bills)
âś… Mandatory In-Person Interviews
- USCIS officers will conduct more in-depth interviews to assess the authenticity of the relationship.
- Questions may cover personal habits, timelines, and mutual knowledge to detect inconsistencies.
âś… Historical Review of Applications
- Officials will examine past petitions filed by the same sponsor or for the same beneficiary.
- Repeated sponsorships may raise red flags for potential fraud.
âś… Scrutiny of Visa and Immigration History
- Special attention will be given to applicants already in the U.S. on other visas (e.g., H-1B, J-1) applying for status adjustment through marriage.
âś… Notices to Appear (NTA) for Deportation
- Approval of a green card petition does not guarantee protection from deportation.
- If an applicant is found ineligible or removable, USCIS may issue an NTA, initiating removal proceedings.
⚠️ Marriage Fraud Cases Prompt Action
The policy update follows several high-profile marriage fraud cases. For instance, Indian national Aakash Prakash Makwana recently pleaded guilty to entering a fake marriage after overstaying his J-1 visa. He used falsified documents and fabricated domestic abuse claims to obtain a green card.
đź“Ś What It Means for Applicants
If you’re a U.S. citizen sponsoring a foreign spouse, be prepared to:
- Submit comprehensive evidence of your relationship
- Attend detailed interviews
- Ensure immigration records are accurate and consistent
đź“„ Conclusion
The new USCIS policy reinforces the agency’s commitment to verifying the legitimacy of family-based immigration. Couples with genuine relationships have nothing to fear—but those attempting to exploit the system may face deportation and legal consequences.
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