For many couples, a marriage-based immigration interview is one of the most important steps on the path to residency. It’s also one of the most stressful things. In 2025, USCIS implemented updated interview practices that focus more heavily on documentation, accuracy, and proof of a genuine relationship. Understanding what to expect — and how to prepare — can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case.

At Flora Legal Group, we guide couples through this process every day. Here is what you need to know before attending your interview.

1. What to Bring: The Essentials

USCIS officers will expect you to bring original documents, even if you submitted copies with your application. Be sure to gather:

  • Required Identification & Civil Documents
    • Original marriage certificate
    • Divorce decrees or death certificates from any prior marriages
    • Birth certificates for both spouses
    • Valid passports for both spouses
    • Government-issued photo IDs
  • Evidence of Your Relationship: This is one of the most important parts of your interview. Bring updated and well-organized proof that your marriage is genuine:
    • Joint lease or mortgage
    • Joint bank accounts
    • Household bills in both names
    • Car insurance, health insurance, or life insurance listing each other
    • Photos together with family and friends
    • Travel itineraries or receipts for trips taken as a couple
    • Screenshots of text messages or call logs (keep these reasonable — not hundreds of pages)

2. What Officers Look For During the Interview

USCIS focuses on two major areas:

✔ Documentation of a Real Relationship

A shared life should be shown through financial, residential, and personal evidence. The officer will assess whether your documents demonstrate a stable partnership.

✔ Consistency Between Couples

If the officer interviews each spouse separately, answers must reasonably match. USCIS understands small differences, but major inconsistencies can lead to delays or even suspicion of fraud.

3. Common Mistakes to Avoid

Many interview problems come from simple errors that can be easily prevented:

❌ Do NOT make up romantic stories

Officers are trained to detect rehearsed or exaggerated answers. Be honest and keep your responses clear and simple.

❌ Do NOT guess

If you’re unsure, it is okay to say, “I’m not certain,” rather than provide an inaccurate answer.

❌ Do NOT forget your ID or required documents

Missing items can lead to rescheduling or unnecessary delays.

✔ ALWAYS bring everything you filed with USCIS

This includes copies of your entire application packet — the officer may ask questions about it

4. How to Prepare for Marriage-Based Questions

Preparing together can make the interview smoother and help reduce nerves. Here are common topics officers may ask about:

Daily Life

  • Who wakes up first?
  • Who cooks?
  • What time do you each leave for work?
  • Do you drink coffee in the morning?

Your Home

  • Walk through your home together to refresh your memory:
  • Number of bedrooms
  • Location of the kitchen and bathrooms
  • Color of the bedroom walls
  • Where the light switches are

Finances

  • Who pays which bills?
  • How are expenses split?
  • Which bank accounts do you share?

The goal is not to trick you — it’s to confirm that you share a real life together.

5. When to Bring an Attorney

We highly recommend preparing with an attorney — especially if:

  • You have prior immigration history
  • There were past visa overstays
  • You have criminal records
  • You were previously separated
  • You feel nervous or unsure about your documentation

Having an attorney attend the interview provides structure, support, and protection if unexpected issues arise.

Final Thoughts

A marriage-based immigration interview can feel overwhelming, but proper preparation brings clarity and confidence. In 2025, USCIS continues to place great emphasis on documentation, consistent answers, and genuine evidence of a shared life. With the right guidance, couples can navigate this process successfully.

At Flora Legal Group, our team is here to walk with you every step of the way — from preparing your application to standing by your side at the interview.

📲 Contact Flora Legal Group today to schedule a consultation.
👉 www.floralegalgroup.com

📍 Indianapolis: (317) 983-3437
📍 Louisville: (502) 493-6009