What Documents Should You Include When Proving Your Good Faith Marriage in an I-130 Petition?
When applying for an immigrant visa or adjustment of status based on marriage to a U.S. citizen or permanent resident, one of the key requirements is to demonstrate that your marriage is genuine and entered into in good faith. This is a crucial step in the process, as USCIS will scrutinize your application to ensure that you are not attempting to fraudulently obtain immigration benefits. To prove your good faith marriage, it's important to include specific documents and evidence in your I-130 petition.
Marriage certificate
The first and most important document to include in your I-130 petition is your marriage certificate. This document serves as proof that you and your spouse are legally married. It should be an official document issued by the authority that performed the marriage ceremony. If your marriage certificate is not in English, you will need to have it translated into English by a qualified translator.
Joint financial documents
One of the strongest pieces of evidence to demonstrate a good faith marriage is joint financial documents. These can include bank statements, tax returns, credit card statements, and other financial documents that show joint ownership or joint use of assets. You should include documents covering the entire period of your marriage, as well as any current statements.
Joint lease or mortgage
Another strong piece of evidence is a joint lease or mortgage agreement. This demonstrates that you and your spouse share a residence and have jointly committed to a long-term financial obligation. If you don't have a joint lease or mortgage, you can provide other evidence of joint residence, such as utility bills or rental agreements.
Photos
Photos of you and your spouse together can also be a powerful tool in demonstrating a good faith marriage. Include photos that show you together at various events and occasions, such as holidays, vacations, or family gatherings. It's best to include a mix of photos from different times and places, to demonstrate the ongoing nature of your relationship.
Affidavits from friends and family
Affidavits from friends and family members can provide additional support for your good faith marriage. These should be written statements from people who know you and your spouse well and can attest to the genuineness of your relationship. They should provide specific examples of how they know you and your spouse, and why they believe your marriage is genuine.
In conclusion, proving a good faith marriage is a critical part of the immigration process. By including the right documents and evidence in your I-130 petition, you can help demonstrate the genuineness of your relationship and increase your chances of a successful application. Be sure to include your marriage certificate, joint financial documents, joint lease or mortgage, photos, and affidavits from friends and family members. By presenting a comprehensive and compelling case, you can help ensure that your application is approved.