Many folks hoping to are residing within the United States turn to marriage as a pathway to a green card. With totally different visa alternate suggestions getting harder, this route seems quicker and extra accessible.
However, what many don’t realise is that green card applications via marriage salvage denied extra normally than expected. U.S. immigration officers are careful and watch out for anything that may seem dishonest or incomplete.
Right here are 7 basic reasons a marriage-based green card application may be denied — and how to avoid them:
1. Mistakes in Paperwork
Even small errors on your varieties can salvage your application rejected. This involves missing signatures, base information, or forgetting to add translations for paperwork now not written in English. To avoid this:
- Double-take a look at every originate
- Write “N/A” instead of leaving blanks
- Make clear all paperwork are total and translated if wanted
- Brand all required sections
2. No longer Adequate Proof the Marriage Is Real
A marriage certificate is now not ample. Immigration officers want to peep that your relationship is real and now not honest for immigration purposes. You’ll want to explain:
- Joint bank or credit accounts
- Lease or utility bills with each your names
- Photographs along side chums and family
- Messages, travel history, or shared financial commitments
Make clear your proof displays you’re really residing as a married couple.
3. Criminal Story or Health Problems
Some criminal offenses or health complications can block you from getting a green card. No longer every file will lead to denial, however excessive crimes or lying on your application can harm your chances.
Also, some health stipulations admire certain contagious diseases or drug abuse history may be a area.
Always be lawful and talk to an immigration lawyer in case you watched your file may affect your application.
4. No longer Assembly the Financial Requirements
The U.S. better half (sponsor) must explain they can toughen their partner. Their profits want to be at least 125% of the Federal Poverty Level. If they don’t earn ample, they can:
- Add profits from totally different household individuals
- Expend assets
- Bag a co-sponsor (usually a family member or cessation friend)
Make clear to present recent tax returns, pay stubs, or bank statements.
5. Applying Whereas At some stage within the U.S. — But Ineligible
No longer all and sundry can apply from within the U.S. In case you entered the country as a vacationer and applied for a green card within 60 days, immigration may perhaps suspect you planned it all along. Also:
- In case you entered illegally
- Or are on a J-1 visa with restrictions
You may have to apply from your place country instead. Know your visa form and speak with an expert if undecided.
6. Missing Supporting Documents
A very basic reason for denial is forgetting important paperwork. Make clear your application involves:
- Marriage and starting up certificates
- Joint financial records
- Utility bills
- Proof of residing collectively
- Photographs
One missing paper can delay or cancel your application. Review all the issues carefully ahead of sending it in.
7. Problems All via the Interview
The green card interview is the final step — and a very important one. Officers will ask about your relationship and everyday life. If your answers and your better half’s answers don’t match, or in case you each seem undecided, it may perhaps raise doubts.
To avoid complications:
- Practice answering questions collectively
- Be lawful and stay calm
- Know details about your shared life (admire birthdays, routines, and the way you met)