USCIS Tightens Scrutiny on Marriage Green Cards
On August 1, USCIS issued new guidance that significantly tightens how marriage-based green card applications are reviewed. These changes apply to both pending and newly submitted petitions, raising the bar for approval. Applicants now face more detailed documentation requirements and stricter interview procedures.
USCIS emphasized that frivolous or fraudulent filings damage the immigration system’s integrity. Importantly, approval of a petition doesn’t guarantee legal status—if the applicant is deemed removable, deportation may still occur under U.S. law.
New Filing Rules and Eligibility Clarified
The updated policy also clarifies when and how certain U.S. citizens—like military personnel stationed abroad—can file Form I-130 directly with the Department of State. It outlines what documents are needed, how interviews will be handled, and the steps before the case is sent to the State Department for processing.
For Indian nationals stuck in the H1B backlog, marriage-based petitions remain a critical route to permanent residency. However, the stricter vetting process means applicants must be prepared with strong evidence and respond quickly to USCIS requests.
Immigration lawyers believe the update strengthens existing frameworks rather than adding new obstacles. While the path to a green card may be more demanding, it’s still open for those who stay prepared and follow the new guidelines closely.
