In order to apply for a marriage-based green card with an arranged marriage in the U.S., the marriage must be proved to be genuine and unforced. The U.S. citizen must fill out an I-130 form to petition for the alien relative — a foreign-born person who is related to the U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident. Couples should be able to provide evidence to support their marriage in good faith with texts, calls, photos, or any other type of receipt. Cultural factors in an arranged marriage also play a role in proving the legitimacy of the marriage. Including cultural information on the specific relationship could be useful in the approval of the application. Arranged marriages are very common in various cultures, and GMR Law Offices acknowledge the cultural meaning of certain arranged marriages.
The evidence submitted with a marriage-based green card application should reflect the couple’s circumstances and history together. Depending on the relationship, this may include photographs, correspondence, call records, travel records, joint financial or household documents, insurance policies, affidavits from family or friends, and other documentation showing that the couple has a genuine marital relationship. Couples in arranged marriages may not have the same types of evidence as couples who dated before marriage, so it is important to provide evidence and context that accurately explains how the relationship developed and how the couple has built their life together.
If you are applying for a green card as the spouse of a U.S. citizen, and you were wed through an arranged marriage, consider reaching out to my office. We can help you navigate the evidence requirements and application process.
Giselle M. Rodriguez is a Boston immigration lawyer who helps clients with marriage visas, fiance(e) visas (K-1 visas), and other family-based immigration options. Giselle is bilingual, speaking English & Spanish. Contact Giselle today to discuss your case.
Note: the information on this page is for educational purposes only, and does not constitute legal advice or an attorney-client relationship.