Significant Changes in the Process of

Obtaining a Green Card through Marriage

President Donald Trump’s administration has recently implemented significant changes in the process of obtaining a Green Card through marriage, aiming to enhance security and prevent fraud.

Below are the most relevant modifications:

Table of Contents

What is a Green Card through marriage?
New requirements and important changes
Recommendations for Applicants
Comparison with other administrations

What is a Green Card through marriage?

The Green Card through marriage is a common pathway for U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents to petition for legal permanent residence for their foreign spouse. It is a completely legal process established by U.S. immigration law but has historically been vulnerable to fraud.

Due to this, legislation and procedures have evolved over time to strengthen the authenticity of marriages.

New Requirements and Important Changes in 2025

During President Donald Trump’s administration, stricter immigration policies have been implemented with the aim of protecting the integrity of the system. In 2025, several key aspects of the Green Card through marriage process have been modified:

1. Updated Form I-485: More Details, More Requirements

As of January 20, 2025, all applicants must use the latest version of Form I-485, officially known as the “Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status.” This new version not only requests basic personal information but includes much more detailed questions to assess the applicant’s economic self-sufficiency.

Additional Information Required:

Total household income, including the petitioner’s.
List of assets (properties, bank accounts, investments).
Statement of current debts (credit cards, loans).
History of public assistance received by the applicant or any household member.
Educational level, professional certifications, languages, and technical skills.

These changes reflect a clear focus on ensuring that the person receiving the Green Card through marriage does not represent a potential public charge.

2. Reinstatement of Mandatory In-Person Marriage Interviews

One of the most controversial changes is the reinstatement of mandatory marriage interviews. Under previous policies, some couples could skip the interview if the case was clear and showed no signs of fraud. In 2025, all couples applying for the Green Card through marriage must undergo an in-person interview with a USCIS officer.

What is evaluated during this interview?

The authenticity of the marital relationship.
Mutual knowledge (important dates, routines, personal history).
Documents supporting a shared life: joint bank accounts, shared leases, health or life insurance, photographs at family events, and exchanged messages.

Even legitimate couples may find this stage challenging. Therefore, it is essential to prepare thoroughly and gather consistent evidence.

3. Focus on Detecting Immigration Fraud

The Green Card through marriage has historically been one of the most fraud-prone immigration pathways. For this reason, the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has intensified its efforts to detect fraudulent marriages.

Among the new tools implemented are:

Random social media checks.
Unannounced home visits.
Data cross-checking with other federal and state agencies.
Analysis of suspicious patterns in previous applications.

The goal is clear: to minimize sham marriages for immigration purposes.

Practical Recommendations for Those Seeking a Green Card through Marriage

In this stricter environment, it is essential that couples take proactive steps to avoid delays, denials, or unnecessary investigations. Here are some key recommendations:

A. Solid Documentation

Gather all possible evidence to prove the relationship is genuine. This includes:

Photographs from the beginning of the relationship.
History of messages, emails, phone calls.
Sworn statements from friends and family.
Contracts signed by both (rentals, home purchases, services).
Evidence of shared trips or events.

B. Legal Counsel

Having an immigration attorney can make a big difference. Requirements change constantly, and a technical error can cost time and money. Professional experience can also be key in preparing for the marriage interview.

C. Honesty and Consistency

How Do These Changes Compare to Other Administrations?

During the Obama administration, the focus was more on family reunification and system efficiency. In contrast, the Trump administration has prioritized national security and fraud prevention, resulting in stricter and more complex processes.

This approach has drawn criticism from human rights organizations and immigration attorneys, who argue that many legitimate couples are affected by the new policies.