If you’re applying for a marriage-based green card, the rules for preparing your interview evidence are changing. In the past, applicants were often told to bring large binders or even bags full of documents to prove the legitimacy of their marriage. However, recent trends at U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) interviews suggest that officers now prefer applicants to upload additional evidence before the interview, not bring it in person.
Submit Strong Evidence from the Start
When you first file your marriage-based green card application, it’s your responsibility to prove that your marriage is real and not solely for immigration purposes. That means submitting as much quality evidence as possible at the outset. Examples include:
- Joint bank statements
- Lease or mortgage documents in both names
- Travel itineraries together
- Photographs over time
- Insurance policies listing each other as beneficiaries
The goal is to demonstrate your shared life clearly and convincingly from the very beginning.
Why USCIS Prefers Uploads Over Paper at Interviews
In recent interviews observed by immigration attorneys, officers have shown less interest in receiving stacks of paper at the appointment. One reason is logistical — every document you hand over must be scanned into their system, which can slow the process, cause technical issues, and lead to longer questioning.
Instead, USCIS encourages applicants to upload new evidence to their online account before the interview. This ensures the officer can review everything in advance without delays in scanning during the appointment.
Read USCIS guidance on green card interviews.
When and How to Upload Your New Marriage Evidence
Once you receive your interview notice, you usually have about five weeks before the actual appointment. During this time, gather updated documents that cover the period since you filed, such as:
- Recent bank or credit card statements
- Updated lease agreements or utility bills
- New travel records together
- Additional photographs
- Proof of shared responsibilities (e.g., joint memberships, insurance updates)
Aim to upload this evidence to your USCIS portal about 4–5 days before your interview. Scan documents clearly (avoid blurry phone pictures) using a home scanner or a service like FedEx Office.
What to Still Bring to Your Interview
Even if you upload your updated evidence, you must still bring original identity documents, including:
- Passports
- Birth certificates
- Marriage certificate
- Green card (if applicable)
You may also bring a set of copies of your uploaded evidence in case the officer has questions, but don’t plan on “dumping” a large stack of papers at the start of the meeting.
How This Helps Your Case
Uploading your evidence in advance:
- Makes life easier for the interviewing officer
- Reduces the time you spend answering questions
- Minimizes the chance of technical issues delaying your case
- Shows you are organized and proactive
By preparing correctly, you can keep the focus of your interview on confirming your relationship — not troubleshooting scanning problems.
Get Professional Help Preparing Your Marriage Evidence
At Landerholm Immigration, A.P.C., we guide clients through every step of the marriage-based green card process, including preparing and uploading the strongest possible evidence for interview success. Our family-based green card services ensure you are fully prepared.
If you want our detailed marriage evidence checklist or need representation for your interview, contact us today. We also provide removal defense services for those facing deportation risks during immigration proceedings. For other immigration needs, visit our general immigration services page to learn how we can assist you.
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