To apply for a marriage-based green card, key documents include a valid marriage certificate, proof of U.S. citizenship or permanent residency of the sponsoring spouse, and evidence of a bona fide marriage such as joint financial records or photos together. Applicants must also submit government-issued identification, birth certificates, and completed immigration forms like Form I-130 and Form I-485. Supporting documents like police clearance certificates and medical examination results are essential to meet USCIS requirements.
What Documents are Required for a Marriage-Based Green Card Application?
| Number | Name | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Bona Fide Marriage Evidence | Bona fide marriage evidence is crucial for a marriage-based green card application and includes documents such as joint bank account statements, lease agreements or mortgages in both names, shared insurance policies, photographs together across different periods, affidavits from friends and family affirming the marriage's authenticity, and proof of cohabitation like utility bills or mail addressed to both spouses. These documents demonstrate the genuine nature of the marital relationship beyond a formal contract, supporting the applicant's eligibility for permanent residency. |
| 2 | Joint Asset Statements | Joint asset statements, such as jointly-owned bank accounts, property deeds, and investment portfolios, serve as crucial evidence of a bona fide marriage in a marriage-based green card application. These documents demonstrate shared financial responsibility and commitment, strengthening the case for the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to approve the petition. |
| 3 | Shared Residency Documentation | Shared residency documentation for a marriage-based green card application includes joint lease agreements, utility bills, and bank statements showing both spouses' names and identical addresses. These documents provide crucial evidence of a bona fide marriage by demonstrating cohabitation and shared living arrangements. |
| 4 | I-130 Petition Packet | The I-130 petition packet for a marriage-based green card application requires key documents including Form I-130, a valid marriage certificate proving a bona fide marriage, U.S. citizen or permanent resident proof of the petitioner, passport-style photos, and evidence of the petitioner's legal status in the U.S. Supporting documents such as birth certificates, divorce decrees if applicable, and proof of a genuine marital relationship like joint financial statements may enhance the petition's credibility. |
| 5 | I-864 Affidavit of Support | The I-864 Affidavit of Support is a critical document in a marriage-based green card application, demonstrating that the petitioner has sufficient income or assets to financially support the immigrant spouse without relying on public benefits. This form requires detailed financial information, including IRS tax returns, employment letters, and proof of U.S. citizenship or lawful permanent resident status of the sponsor. |
| 6 | I-693 Medical Examination Report | The I-693 Medical Examination Report is a critical document for a marriage-based green card application, verifying the applicant's health status and vaccination history as required by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). This sealed, completed form must be submitted by a designated civil surgeon to demonstrate that the applicant meets all medical inadmissibility criteria. |
| 7 | Digital Photo Specification Compliance | Marriage-based green card applications require digital photos that strictly comply with USCIS specifications, including a 2x2 inch size, a plain white or off-white background, and recent capture within the last six months. Photos must clearly display the applicant's full face, directly facing the camera with a neutral expression and both eyes open, ensuring high-resolution quality without shadows, glare, or digital alterations. |
| 8 | Consular Processing Appointment Letter | The Consular Processing Appointment Letter is a critical document required for a marriage-based green card application, confirming the scheduled interview date at the U.S. embassy or consulate. This letter, issued after submitting Form DS-260 and supporting documents, must be presented alongside the marriage certificate, evidence of bona fide marriage, Form I-864 affidavit of support, and valid passports during the consular interview. |
| 9 | Financial Co-Sponsor Documents | Financial co-sponsor documents for a marriage-based green card application include Form I-864, Affidavit of Support, recent federal income tax returns, W-2s, and pay stubs to demonstrate stable income. Verification of assets such as bank statements, property deeds, or investment certificates may also be required to meet the minimum income threshold set by USCIS. |
| 10 | Social Media Relationship Proof | Social media relationship proof for a marriage-based green card application includes screenshots of joint posts, comments, and messages that demonstrate ongoing communication and mutual commitment. Photos tagged together, shared travel experiences, and consistent online interactions across platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp provide vital evidence of a bona fide marriage. |
Overview of Marriage-Based Green Card Documentation
| Document Category | Required Documents | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Proof of U.S. Citizenship or Permanent Residency of Petitioner | U.S. passport, birth certificate, naturalization certificate, or green card | Establishes the sponsor's legal status in the United States |
| Marriage Certificate | Certified marriage certificate issued by a government authority | Verifies the legal marriage between the applicant and petitioner |
| Proof of Termination of Prior Marriages | Divorce decrees, annulment decrees, or death certificates for any prior marriages | Confirms all previous marriages have legally ended |
| Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative | Completed and signed Form I-130 along with supporting documents | Initiates the petition process for the spouse's permanent residency |
| Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status | Completed and signed Form I-485 with supporting documents | Applies for status adjustment within the United States |
| Proof of Bona Fide Marriage | Joint bank account statements, lease agreements, photos together, affidavits from friends/family | Demonstrates the marriage is genuine and not for immigration purposes |
| Identity and Civil Documents of Applicant | Birth certificate, passport, government-issued ID, and visa | Proves identity and nationality of the foreign spouse |
| Medical Examination Report | Completed I-693 form by a USCIS approved civil surgeon | Confirms applicant meets health requirements |
| Affidavit of Support (Form I-864) | Completed Form I-864 with proof of income or assets from petitioner | Ensures petitioner can financially support the applicant |
| Passport-Style Photographs | Recent passport-style photos of applicant and petitioner | Needed for identification on immigration documents |
Proof of Genuine Marital Relationship
Proof of a genuine marital relationship is essential for a marriage-based green card application. This documentation demonstrates the authenticity of the marriage to immigration authorities.
Common evidence includes joint bank account statements, lease agreements, and photos together over time. Affidavits from family and friends confirming the relationship can also strengthen Your case.
Personal Identification Documents
What personal identification documents are required for a marriage-based green card application? You need to submit valid government-issued identification such as a passport or birth certificate to establish your identity. Proof of your relationship through marriage certificates and evidence of legal status in the United States is also essential for the application process.
Financial Support and Affidavit of Support
Applying for a marriage-based green card requires careful attention to financial documentation. Proving financial support through an affidavit is essential to demonstrate the petitioner's ability to support the immigrant spouse without relying on public benefits.
- Form I-864, Affidavit of Support - This form is a legally binding contract affirming the petitioner's commitment to financially support the immigrant.
- Proof of Income - Tax returns, W-2 forms, and recent pay stubs are necessary to establish adequate income levels meeting the 125% federal poverty guideline requirement.
- Employment Verification - A letter from the petitioner's employer confirming current employment and salary helps substantiate stable income.
Your submission must include these documents to satisfy USCIS requirements for financial support during the green card application process.
Evidence of Legal Marital Status
Evidence of legal marital status is a crucial component of a marriage-based Green Card application. You must provide official documents to prove your marriage is legally recognized.
- Marriage Certificate - A government-issued marriage certificate is required to verify your marital union.
- Proof of Divorce or Death Certificates - If previously married, provide final divorce decrees or death certificates to demonstrate the end of prior marriages.
- Joint Affidavits or Declarations - Sworn statements from credible witnesses may support the authenticity of your marriage if required.
Documentation for Previous Marriages
When applying for a marriage-based green card, providing documentation of any previous marriages is essential. You must submit official divorce decrees, annulment papers, or death certificates to prove the termination of all prior marriages. These documents help establish the legality of your current marital status and ensure the application process moves smoothly.
Forms Required for Submission
When applying for a marriage-based Green Card, the essential forms required for submission include Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative, and Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status. These forms establish the marital relationship and initiate the adjustment of status process.
Supporting documents often accompany these forms, such as Form I-864, Affidavit of Support, to demonstrate financial stability. Form I-693, Report of Medical Examination and Vaccination Record, is also required to prove health eligibility. Accurate and complete submission of these forms is critical to avoid delays in the application process.
Guidelines for Translating Foreign Documents
When applying for a marriage-based green card, submitting properly translated foreign documents is crucial for USCIS review. Your translations must meet specific guidelines to ensure accurate and official processing.
Translations must be complete and faithful to the original document's content without omissions or alterations.
- Certified Translation - A certified translator must attest to the accuracy and completeness of the translation with a signed statement.
- Legibility and Format - Translations must be clear, readable, and follow the same format as the original document to avoid misinterpretation.
- Original Document Submission - Submit both the original foreign document and the English translation for USCIS verification.
Organizing and Submitting Your Application Packet
Organizing and submitting your marriage-based green card application packet requires gathering all necessary documents to prove the legitimacy of your marriage and eligibility. Key documents include the Form I-130, Form I-485, proof of U.S. citizenship or lawful permanent residence of the sponsor, marriage certificate, and evidence of a bona fide marriage such as joint bank statements or lease agreements. Ensure all forms are properly completed, signed, and accompanied by the appropriate filing fees before submitting the packet to the designated U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) address.
What Documents are Required for a Marriage-Based Green Card Application? Infographic
