Proof of Relationship Tips (For Marriage-Based Green Cards)

Published on: November 2, 2025

💍 Why Relationship Evidence Matters

When applying for a marriage-based Green Card, USCIS must confirm that your marriage is real and not solely for immigration benefits. Even couples with long relationships can face delays or denials if their evidence is incomplete or inconsistent.

🏠 The Most Important Principle: Show a Shared Life

You must prove that your lives are connected — financially, emotionally, and socially. USCIS officers look for documents showing you live together, share finances, and present yourselves as a couple to family and friends.

🏦 Strong Evidence Examples

These are the types of evidence USCIS considers most persuasive:

Joint bank account statements showing deposits and withdrawals by both spouses.
Lease or mortgage documents listing both names.
Joint tax returns or IRS transcripts.
Insurance policies (health, life, auto) covering both spouses.
Children’s birth certificates, if applicable.

📷 Supporting Lifestyle Evidence

USCIS also values personal and social proof of your ongoing relationship:

Photos together from different years, events, and places.
Travel records or itineraries showing joint trips.
Correspondence (emails, letters, or messages) showing regular communication.
Affidavits from friends or family confirming they know your relationship is genuine.

💡 Tips for Preparing Your Evidence

Be chronological: Arrange documents from the start of your relationship to the present.
Be clear: Label each exhibit (for example, “Exhibit A – Joint Bank Account, 2023”).
Be consistent: Dates and addresses should match across all documents.
Be authentic: Avoid submitting “staged” photos or irrelevant documents.

⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

Submitting only wedding photos or a few recent bills.
Forgetting to include translations for non-English documents.
Providing inconsistent addresses between the I-130, I-485, and supporting documents.
Failing to include affidavits when other joint evidence is weak.

By carefully organizing and labeling your evidence, you’ll make it easier for USCIS to see that your marriage is bona fide and ongoing. Strong proof not only prevents delays but can also make your interview faster and smoother.