At Odunlami Law Firm, we understand the complexities and challenges couples face going through the immigration process. Today, we want to discuss a critical aspect that can make or break your application: ensuring that your marriage is perceived as genuine by the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
Five Mistakes That Could Raise USCIS Suspicions About Your Marriage
When applying for immigration benefits through marriage, it’s critical to avoid common mistakes that can raise suspicions and potentially undermine your application. The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) scrutinizes various details to assess the authenticity of a marital relationship. Here are five common issues that applicants should be aware of and avoid to ensure a smoother process. From inconsistencies in personal documentation to the nature of the evidence presented, each of these pitfalls could significantly impact the outcome of your application.
- Inconsistent Addresses on Driver’s Licenses: One of the first things USCIS checks is if spouses live at the same address. Different addresses on your driver’s licenses can be a red flag. It might suggest that you don’t live together. If you change your driver’s license just before the marriage interview to match your spouse’s, it could appear that you’re trying to deceive USCIS. It’s crucial to update your address as soon as you move in together, not just before an interview.
- Sending Inappropriate Pictures: The quality and nature of the photos you submit matter when proving your relationship. Sending inappropriate or overly intimate images to demonstrate your relationship can work against you. Instead, focus on providing pictures showing you with family and friends or participating in everyday activities together. These images paint a clearer picture of your life as a couple and your integration into each other’s social circles.
- Limited Photographic Evidence: You might need more than just selfies of you and your spouse for USCIS. They prefer to see you interacting with others as a couple. Photos from gatherings, holidays, or outings with others help demonstrate that you are open about your relationship and that those around you recognize it. These are viewed as more authentic evidence of a genuine relationship.
- Rushing into Marriage: Getting married shortly after the meeting can raise suspicions, especially if one partner is a U.S. citizen and the other is seeking immigration benefits. While love can happen at first sight, the USCIS might interpret a quick marriage as convenient for immigration purposes. If your relationship timeline is short, make sure you have other substantial evidence to show the depth and authenticity of your relationship.
- Inconsistent Interview Answers: During your interview, USCIS will ask personal questions about your life together. Conflicting answers to simple questions like “What did you have for breakfast?” or “How did you meet?” can indicate that you do not share a life. It is essential to practice these questions with your spouse, not to coach or script your answers but to ensure you are both clear on your daily routines and relationship history.
How Odunlami Law Firm Can Help
Exploring the green card process through marriage can be daunting, but you don’t have to do it alone. At Odunlami Law Firm, we focus on helping couples prove the legitimacy of their marriage to USCIS. We guide you through compiling and presenting evidence that reflects a genuine relationship, prepare you for your interview, and stand by your side throughout the process. Avoidable mistakes should not hinder your journey to secure a life together in the U.S. Paying attention to these details can significantly affect the outcome of your application. Remember, USCIS is looking to confirm that your marriage is based on more than just the desire for immigration benefits.
If you’re preparing for a marriage-based visa application or have concerns about how to demonstrate the authenticity of your relationship, contact us at Odunlami Law Firm, LLC. Call us today at 973-993-1900 or contact us online. Let us help you build a strong case and move forward with confidence.
