Green Card Marriage Rules Tighten Under Trump
The Trump administration has introduced stricter rules for green card marriage, signaling a broader crackdown on immigration. These changes affect couples where one partner is applying for permanent residency through marriage to a U.S. citizen or green card holder.
Key Changes to the Green Card Marriage Process
1. Updated Immigration Forms
Starting April 3, Form I-485 must be the newest version released on January 20. It now includes:
- A “public charge” section requiring full financial disclosure
- Questions about education, licenses, and job skills
- Language changes like reintroducing the word “alien”
2. Return of Marriage Interviews
USCIS has reinstated in-person interviews for marriage-based green card applicants. These interviews had been mostly waived under the Biden administration in 2022, especially for low-risk applications. Now, interviews are again a standard part of the vetting process, even for couples with no red flags.
3. Expanded Financial and Personal Scrutiny
Applicants must now provide detailed household income, debts, and assets. You must disclose even public assistance history. Attorney Rachel Einbund said these new sections may discourage low-income applicants.
She also warned that proving the authenticity of the marriage is more critical than ever. “Disclose everything,” she advised, emphasizing that couples need strong, diverse evidence of their relationship.
Why It Matters
President Trump has vowed to tighten immigration policies and boost deportations. In early 2025, the administration deported around 100,000 people, including some legal residents.
The new green card rules are part of a larger effort to increase screening and vetting. A USCIS spokesperson confirmed that the agency focuses on fraud prevention, identity verification, and maintaining national security.
The Mahmoud Khalil Case
The policy shift arrives as green card holder and Columbia grad student Mahmoud Khalil faces removal proceedings. He accused them of promoting an event that glorified Hamas, a group that the U.S. classifies as a terrorist organization.
His case highlights how immigration law may scrutinize political speech and activism.An ACLU representative called the move “anti-democratic” and “unconstitutional.”
What’s Next?
- Form I-485 applicants must use the new version starting April 3.
- Green card interviews are back in full swing.
- Legal experts expect more form changes, possibly requiring social media disclosure.
- Khalil’s removal hearing is scheduled for April 8.
As the administration pushes its “enhanced vetting” agenda, immigration processes will likely face more reforms in the coming weeks.
More….
- https://www.newsweek.com/green-card-marriages-changes-trump-administration-explained-2054852
- https://www.hindustantimes.com/world-news/us-news/marriage-green-card-uscis-tightens-filing-rules-know-all-details-101743691108843.html
- https://www.boundless.com/blog/uscis-quietly-tightens-marriage-green-card-procedures
