How to Prepare for the Marriage-Based Green Card Interview: A 2026 Guide

Index

• What to Expect at the Marriage Green Card Interview
• Green Card Interview Questions: What You Might Be Asked
• Evidence for a Marriage Green Card: How to Prove a Bona Fide Marriage
• Red Flags in Green Card Interviews
• Spousal Visa Interview Tips: How to Prepare Effectively
• Green Card Interview Results: What Happens Next?
• Frequently Asked Questions

The marriage green card interview is the final step where USCIS evaluates the legitimacy of your relationship through detailed questions and evidence review. Whether you are applying inside the U.S. via adjustment of status or abroad through consular processing, preparation is essential to success. In 2026, USCIS has increased its focus on detailed "bona fide" evidence, making it more important than ever to be organized.

This guide covers everything you need to know for your 2026 marriage interview, including:

• Common Questions: What officers ask about your daily life and history.

• Bona Fide Evidence: How to prove your marriage is genuine.

• Red Flags: How to avoid common triggers for delays or denials.

Read our complete guide below to master the marriage green card interview process and secure one of the most important milestones in your immigration journey.

What to Expect at the Marriage Green Card Interview

During your U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) interview for a green card or consular interview, an immigration officer will evaluate the authenticity of your marriage. The main objective is to confirm that your relationship is genuine and that you meet all the eligibility criteria.

You may be interviewed:

- Together as a couple, or

- Separately (Stokes interview) if there are discrepancies or doubts.

If your interview does not go well, your green card application may be delayed. In some cases, failure can lead to denial, or you may be scheduled for a second-level interview. This interview is also known as a Stokes interview, in which each spouse is questioned separately to verify the authenticity of the marriage.

Green Card Interview Questions: What You Might Be Asked

Below are the most common green card interview questions, categorized by theme. They help officers review your daily life, relationship history, and emotional connection.

Basic Information:

• What is your spouse’s full name and birthdate?

• How did you meet?

• What do your spouse’s parents do?

Relationship Timeline:

• When did your relationship begin?

• Who proposed? How and where?

• What was your wedding like? Who attended?

Daily Life and Household Details:

• Where do you live? Who cleans, cooks, and pays the bills?

• Do you share a bank account or credit cards?

• What side of the bed does your spouse sleep on?

Personal Preferences:

• What is their favorite TV show or meal?

• Do they have any allergies or take medication?

• Be honest, specific, and consistent. Inconsistent answers may trigger further investigation.

Evidence for a Marriage Green Card: How to Prove a Bona Fide Marriage

Immigration officers require strong, real-world evidence for marriage green card applications. These documents should reflect your shared life and responsibilities.

The most accepted evidence of a bona fide marriage includes:

• Joint lease, mortgage, or utility bills

• Shared bank accounts and insurance policies

• Family photos and travel itineraries

• Birth certificates of mutual children

• Text messages, emails, or social media history

• Signed affidavits from friends and family.

Your goal is to paint a full and authentic picture of your life together.

Red Flags in Green Card Interviews

Even genuine couples may trigger concerns. These red flags in green card interview can lead to delays or denials:

• Significant age or language gap

• Living at different addresses

• Lack of shared finances or photos

• Contradictory interview answers

• Rushed marriage shortly after a visa overstay or status violation
   

If any of these apply to you, work with an experienced marriage green card lawyer to address them in advance.

Spousal Visa Interview Tips: How to Prepare Effectively

Want to know how to prepare for a successful marriage interview? Follow these practical spousal visa interview tips:

• Know your timeline. Revisit key dates, such as when you first met, got engaged, and got married.

• Review each other’s backgrounds. Family names, jobs, and habits often come up.

• Practice common questions. But avoid sounding rehearsed.

• Organize your paperwork. Use a reliable green card interview checklist.

• Dress appropriately. Professional yet comfortable attire helps set the tone.

• Be honest. Never guess. If you're unsure, it's okay to say, "I don't remember exactly."

• Stay calm. Remember, the officer is doing their job, and your preparation is your best asset.

Green Card Interview Results: What Happens Next?

1. If your interview goes well, you may receive your green card within weeks.

2. However, if further review is needed, you may receive a Request for Evidence (RFE) or be called for a second interview.

3. In cases involving clear issues or suspicion of fraud, your application may be denied.

Frequently Asked Questions

Work with Gozel Law Firm PC

At Gozel Law Firm, PC, our experienced immigration lawyers will:

- Review your case in detail

- Help you gather persuasive evidence of a bona fide marriage

- Offer insights and practical tips to help you feel more confident before your marriage-based green card interview.

- Remain by your side to address any legal concerns or unexpected developments that arise during the process.

Ready to get started?

Schedule a consultation