• Source:JND
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The United States has put in place stricter checks on foreign nationals who are married to US citizens as part of a larger revamp of immigration policy by the Biden administration. The new regulations, according to official sources, demand extensive documentation and compulsory interviews for marriage-based green card seekers. The action is taken to stop fraudulent claims and ensure that only legitimate relationships avail themselves of family-based immigration opportunities.

In the past, such applications were routinely processed with minimal checks, and interviews were sometimes waived. According to the new policy, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) and consular officers are now carrying out detailed interviews and requiring substantial evidence of a genuine marital relationship.

Rules for marriage-based green cards made stricter

The applicants will have to provide joint bank statements, lease agreements, photographs, communication records, and affidavits to establish the genuineness of their marriage. Immigration lawyers have told couples to prepare thoroughly since questioning in interviews is likely to be more intense.

Pathway for undocumented spouses announced

The policy shift is concurrent with a proposal made in June 2024, which will permit almost 500,000 illegal immigrants who are married to American citizens and have been living in the country for at least 10 years to apply for legal permanent residence without having to depart from the US. The action will also help nearly 50,000 children aged below 21 as part of an attempt to keep families intact. While the humanitarian program provides relief to long-term undocumented families, the administration has indicated that new applicants will undergo increased scrutiny to avoid abuse of the system.

Also read: US Tightens Immigration Rules: THESE Social Media Posts Could Get Your Visa, Residence Permits Cancelled | Details