Marriage Green Card Interviews in 2026: What Couples Should Be Prepared to Prove

For many married couples, the immigration interview is one of the most stressful parts of the Green Card process. But understanding what USCIS is looking for can make the process much easier.

The central question in a marriage-based immigration case is whether the couple entered the marriage in good faith and not simply to obtain an immigration benefit. USCIS may waive an adjustment interview in appropriate cases, but if an interview is scheduled, the officer can ask questions and review documents to determine whether the marriage is genuine.

Couples should be prepared to show how they actually live their lives together. USCIS recognizes evidence such as joint ownership of property, a lease showing that the couple lives together, shared financial accounts, birth certificates of children together, affidavits from people who know the couple, and other documents showing an ongoing marital relationship.

Just as important, both spouses should review the immigration forms that were filed before attending the interview. Dates, addresses, previous marriages, employment history, travel and other information should be accurate and consistent. Sometimes what appears to be a small discrepancy can lead to additional questions.

Couples do not need to have a “perfect” marriage or memorize answers. The issue is whether the marriage was entered into in good faith, not whether an immigration officer thinks the marriage will last forever.

The best preparation is good documentation, truthful answers and familiarity with your own immigration filing.

If you have received a marriage-based Green Card interview notice, reviewing the application and your supporting evidence before the interview can help identify potential issues before you walk into USCIS.