USCIS Introduces New Guidelines for Marriage-Based Green Card Applicants

The US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has released updated policy guidance concerning the evaluation of family-based immigrant visa petitions, which is a popular route for married couples applying for a Green Card.

Also Read: New US Visa Waiver Guidelines for Indian Applicants Starting September 2

Key Highlights of the Changing Guidelines for Green Card for Married Couples

In the press release, USCIS stated that the new guidance would help the agency to better verify the authenticity of marriage and family relations. Aimed as a measure to boost national security and to prevent the misuse of the immigration system.

1. Stricter Scrutiny of Petitions: USCIS emphasised that fraudulent family-based visa petitions harm public trust in the immigration system and also undermine the principle of family unity.
2. Petition Approval Does Not Equal Legal Status: Under the updated policy, it is clearly stated that the approval of a family-based petition alone does not confer legal immigration status, and if the beneficiary is identified for removal under the US Immigration law, they would be shared a Notice to Appear as a start to removal proceedings
3. Detailed Clarification on Procedures: The updated guidelines strengthen USCIS’s ability to assess the validity of the family-based application, specifically for those based on marriage. It outlines:
   1. Eligibility Requirements
   2. Documents Requirements
   3. Interview Protocols
   4. How USCIS handles multiple or related petitions
   5. Conditions under which petitions may be further referred to other agencies
4. Updates Regarding Forwarding Petitions: The new guidelines also explain when a petition will be forwarded to the Department of State’s National Visa Center, specifically in cases where applicants intend to adjust status in the US but are later deemed ineligible
5. Special Cases for Overseas Filings: US citizens, including military personnel or those stationed abroad on government duty may be permitted to apply for Form I-130 directly with the department of State.

Also Read: August 2025 Brings Big Education & Immigration Changes for Indians

Choose Only Safe and Seamless Immigration Assistance From GetGIS

The new policy update aims to align with broader enforcement priorities and to strengthen USCIS’s commitment to robust alien screening and vetting, in order to protect the public and ensure only lawful and genuine cases proceed. For further assistance with Immigration queries and to learn more about your eligibility for US immigration, reach out to GetGIS.

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Also Read: August 2025 US Visa Bulletin Update Highlights Positive Momentum for Indians