2025 USCIS Form Updates: Marriage Green Card Process Tightens
As 2025 unfolds, the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has quietly implemented a series of significant changes to the marriage-based green card application process. While no sweeping policy shift has been formally announced, updates to official forms, filing rules, and agency messaging suggest a tightening of procedures and heightened focus on detecting marriage fraud.
New Mandatory Form Editions
USCIS is rolling out new mandatory editions of key forms used in the marriage green card process:
• Form I-485 (Adjustment of Status): Starting April 3, 2025, only the 01/20/25 edition will be accepted.
• Form I-129F: Starting May 1, 2025, only the 01/20/25 edition will be accepted.
• Form I-130 (Petition for Alien Relative): The current 04/01/24 edition remains valid but now includes explicit marriage fraud warnings and reminders about consular processing choices.
Applicants must ensure that all pages of each form submission match the same edition date. Submitting forms with mismatched or outdated pages may lead to rejection.
Scrutiny on Marriage Fraud
The updates signal USCIS's increased scrutiny on potential marriage fraud cases. The agency appears to be taking a stricter stance on verifying the legitimacy of marriages, particularly those involving recent immigrants seeking family-based green cards.
Couples applying for a marriage-based green card should be prepared to provide substantial evidence demonstrating their bona fide marital relationship. This may include documentation such as joint financial records, lease agreements, photographs, and statements from friends and family members.
Consult an Immigration Attorney
Given the heightened scrutiny and evolving requirements, it is highly recommended for couples to consult with an experienced immigration attorney when navigating the marriage green card process. An attorney can ensure that all forms are properly completed, advise on the necessary supporting evidence, and represent the couple's interests throughout the application and interview stages.
By staying informed and seeking professional guidance, applicants can increase their chances of a successful marriage-based green card petition while adhering to USCIS's tightened procedures.