The US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), introduced a significant update to its Policy Manual, specifically targeting marriage fraud in family-based immigrant visa petitions.The critical update to its Policy Manual titled ‘Family-Based Immigrants’, released August 1, is designed to ensure that only genuine relationships, particularly bona fide marriages, qualify for lawful permanent resident (green card) status in the US.This measure aims to prevent fraudulent applications and strengthen the integrity of the immigration process. The USCIS stated that thorough verification processes will be implemented to assess the authenticity of relationships submitted for immigration purposes.
Why did this policy come into place?
The USCIS took this firm stance in response to rising concerns that “fraudulent, frivolous, or otherwise non‑meritorious” immigration applications are undermining public confidence in family-based immigration and posing national security risks.USCIS explicitly stated its commitment to “robust alien screening and vetting that protects Americans from potential national security threats” and to “detecting aliens with potentially harmful intent so they can be processed for removal from the US.”Additionally, there have been cases involving Indian nationals caught in marriage fraud. According to a recent release by the US Attorney’s Office, in May 2025, Indian national Aakash Prakash Makwana pleaded guilty to marriage fraud. He overstayed his J-1 visa, arranged a fake marriage with a US citizen, fabricated rental and utility records to feign cohabitation, and falsely claimed domestic abuse to obtain a green card.Upon being convicted of marriage fraud, an individual faces significant prison time, fines, and deportation.
Enhanced screening and vetting procedures
The updated policy mandates more comprehensive evidence of bona fide marriages, including photographs, financial documents, and affidavits from acquaintances. Couples may face rigorous interviews to verify the authenticity of their relationship. The USCIS will scrutinize any history of multiple applications by a US citizen for different spouses or prior applications for the same beneficiary, flagging them for detailed investigation.USCIS may issue a Notice to Appear if the beneficiary is found removable due to ineligibility or fraudulent intent.Additionally, according to an earlier report, marrying a US citizen or green card holder no longer guarantees a smooth path to a green card. Immigration interviews are now stricter, with officers demanding more proof of a genuine relationship- from photos and call logs to joint finances and shared plans.Spouses abroad face rigorous consular interviews, while those in the US may be called for “Stokes interviews,” where couples are questioned separately. Long wait times, especially for green card holder spouses, raise additional red flags.Immigration lawyers advise treating the process like an exam: prepare thoroughly, bring evidence, and be ready for personal questions. A weak case could mean denial — or even deportation proceedings.
