Washington, D.C.— The United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has implemented significant changes to the marriage-based green card application process, affecting many Indian and South Asian couples seeking permanent residency in the U.S. These updates include increased filing fees, revised forms, extended processing times, and enhanced scrutiny of marital relationships.
Key Facts:
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Increased Filing Fees: Effective April 1, 2024, USCIS adjusted certain immigration and naturalization benefit request fees for the first time since 2016, impacting the overall cost of the application process.
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Updated Forms: Applicants must use the latest editions of key forms, such as Form I-485 (Adjustment of Status) and Form I-130 (Petition for Alien Relative). For instance, starting April 3, 2025, only the 01/20/25 edition of Form I-485 is accepted.
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Extended Processing Times: Delays are anticipated in scheduling biometrics appointments, interviews, and final approvals due to heightened security measures and comprehensive vetting procedures.
These changes aim to enhance the integrity of the immigration system but present new challenges for applicants. The increased fees and extended processing times require applicants to plan meticulously and budget accordingly. The necessity to use updated forms underscores the importance of staying informed about procedural changes to avoid application rejection.
The Indian and South Asian communities in the U.S. are particularly affected, as family reunification through marriage-based green cards is a common pathway to permanent residency. The enhanced scrutiny of marital relationships means that applicants must provide comprehensive evidence of the authenticity of their marriage, including joint financial documents, shared living arrangements, and affidavits from family and friends.
USCIS has also updated a broad range of immigration forms beyond marriage-based petitions, including forms for naturalization, humanitarian protections, employment authorization, and travel documents. Most carry the same 01/20/25 edition date.
Do You Know? The term "green card" originates from the color of the Permanent Resident Card introduced in 1946, which was green. The card has changed colors over the years but returned to its iconic green in 2010.
Key Terms:
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USCIS (United States Citizenship and Immigration Services): The federal agency overseeing lawful immigration to the United States.
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Form I-485 (Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status): The form used by eligible individuals to apply for lawful permanent resident status while in the U.S.
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Form I-130 (Petition for Alien Relative): A form filed by a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident to establish a qualifying relationship with a foreign relative who wishes to immigrate to the U.S.