Identity and civil documents
Foreign spouse: - Passport (biographic page) and the most recent U.S. entry record (visa stamp, I-94 — downloadable from the official CBP site) - Birth certificate with certified English translation - Two passport-style photos per application form (check each form's photo count)
Petitioning spouse: - Proof of status: U.S. passport, naturalization certificate, birth certificate, or green card copy
The marriage: - Marriage certificate (government-issued) - Proof every prior marriage of either spouse ended: divorce decrees or death certificates, with translations where applicable
Financial documents (I-864)
- Petitioner's most recent federal tax return (or transcript) and W-2/1099
- Evidence of current income: recent pay stubs, employment letter
- If income falls short: joint sponsor's same set, or asset evidence
Evidence the marriage is genuine
This is the category couples underestimate. Strong packages show shared life over time, not one thick folder from one month: - Joint lease or mortgage, joint bank/credit accounts, shared insurance - Photos across the relationship (with dates and places), travel records - Children's birth certificates where applicable - Affidavits from people who know the couple
Situational documents (where cases really differ)
- Prior immigration filings or status documents (approval notices, prior visas)
- Court records if there is any arrest history — even dismissed matters usually need certified dispositions
- Medical exam (Form I-693) in its sealed envelope, per current filing guidance
Translation rule
Any document not in English needs a complete English translation with the translator's certification of competence and accuracy.
FAQ
Do documents need to be originals? Packages are filed with copies unless an original is specifically required; originals go to the interview.
How much marriage evidence is enough? Quality over volume — a few strong, time-spread joint documents beat a hundred photos from one party.
What about government fees? Fees change — verify the current amounts on the official USCIS fee page when you file.
General information only — not legal advice for your case. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Free eligibility check → greencard4spouse.com/start
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