U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services wants proof that your relationship is more than paperwork. A bona fide marriage signals a shared life, something that cannot be faked for a green card. If officers doubt the union, petitions stall or fail. USCIS outlines this standard on its Form I-130 page.
Core documents that speak for you
First, joint finance documents are great proof. Bank statements, shared credit cards and combined insurance policies demonstrate economic interdependence.
Another place to look for core documents is proof of a shared home. Leases, mortgage notes and utility bills addressed to both spouses prove you reside together.
Yet another Hallmark of a marriage are proof of life milestones. Birth certificates for children, hospital paperwork or joint tax returns create a long-term timeline.
Finally, a book of consistent photos provides substantiation. Snapshots spanning courtship to recent family events help officers see the relationship’s progression.
Social proof and community ties
Affidavits from relatives, neighbors or clergy confirm how others see your relationship. Lists of wedding invitees, evidence of shared club memberships and records of trips you planned together all help illustrate the rhythms of your everyday life as a couple.
Organizing everything for USCIS
Arrange evidence chronologically or group items, like finances, housing, photos, etc., into labeled sections. Consistency matters. For example, the dates on bank statements should align with lease terms and travel stamps.
Avoiding common pitfalls
Missing dates or mismatched addresses raise red flags. One-time joint purchases carry less weight than ongoing obligations like insurance premiums. Over-editing photos looks staged, so choose candid images that show natural interactions.
Tell a coherent story
Think of your submission as a narrative, where the documents, photos and affidavits weave the same tale of a shared household and future plans. Honest, well-organized evidence is the best antidote to marriage-fraud concerns. By presenting a clear chronology and diverse proof, Jersey City couples can satisfy USCIS that their partnership is authentic and lasting.
