USCIS Updates: New Guidelines for Family-Based Immigration Applications

On August 1, 2023, the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) updated its policy manual, introducing comprehensive new guidelines focused on enhancing the examination procedures for family-based immigration applications, particularly marriage green cards. This significant policy shift emphasizes stricter scrutiny and procedures to ensure the authenticity of marriage-based applications. Let’s break down the key changes and what they mean for applicants.

Key Changes in New Guidelines

• Clear Documentation Requirements: The USCIS has clarified the types of documentation required to prove the authenticity of a marriage. This includes financial records, joint accounts, and shared assets.
• Mandatory Interviews: All applicants are now required to attend an interview. This step has become crucial for verifying the legitimacy of the marriage.
• Background Checks: The new guidelines include comprehensive checks of both the applicant’s immigration history and criminal background.
• Deportation Risks: Under the new rules, even if an application is approved, there may be a risk of deportation, highlighting the importance of adhering strictly to application guidelines.

Preparation Tips for Applicants

In light of these updates, it is essential for all marriage green card applicants to prepare their materials meticulously and systematically. Here are some critical documents to support your application:

• Joint financial records, such as co-owned properties and joint bank accounts.
• Various photographs together that illustrate your life as a married couple.
• Letters from family and friends affirming your relationship.

Additionally, we advise both partners to thoroughly prepare for the mandatory interview by participating in mock interviews and practicing potential questions and answers.

Our Experience and Commitment

Though the new regulations were only announced recently, our legal team has been implementing these standards in our handling of marriage green card cases well in advance. Our commitment to our clients includes:

• Ensuring that all submitted materials are authentic and withstand scrutiny.
• Providing comprehensive evidence to thoroughly display the reality of the marriage.
• Offering professional interview coaching to adequately prepare clients for their interviews.

Because of this meticulous approach, we are proud to share that many of our marriage green card applications have been successfully approved!

Success Stories from Recent Applications

Here are a few recent success stories from clients who followed our guidance:

• Application 1: H-1B status, spouse is a citizen.
  • Submitted application: 03/27/2025
  • Fingerprinting completed: 04/21/2025
  • Received combo card: 04/25/2025
  • Green card interview: 07/22/2025
  • Approved I-485 and received green card: 07/24/2025!
• Application 2: B-2 visa overstayed, spouse is a citizen.
  • Submitted application: 02/11/2025
  • Fingerprinting completed: 02/26/2025
  • Received work card: 04/19/2025
  • Green card interview: 06/09/2025
  • Approved I-485 and received green card: 06/10/2025!
• Application 3: F-1 status with a criminal record, spouse is a citizen.
  • Submitted application: 09/10/2024
  • Received RFE due to sponsor’s financial ability: 09/22/2024 (RFE responded).
  • Fingerprinting completed: 10/21/2024
  • Green card interview: 06/02/2025
  • Approved I-130 on 06/03/2025.
  • Received second RFE due to undisclosed criminal record: 06/02/2025 (RFE responded).
  • Approved I-485 and received green card: 08/07/2025!

Conclusion: With these new stringent guidelines in place, it is crucial for applicants to thoroughly understand the updated policies and prepare their applications with precision. By providing truthful, robust documentation and adequately preparing for interviews, applicants can significantly increase their chances of a successful outcome. Remember, being well-prepared is the key to navigating the complexities of the immigration process in the USA!