The marriage-based Green Card interview is a critical step in proving that your relationship is
genuine. USCIS officers carefully review your documents and ask questions to confirm the
legitimacy of your marriage.

1. What Happens During a Marriage Interview?
A USCIS or consular officer will verify your identity, review your forms, and ask questions
about your relationship and daily life.
A smooth marriage interview usually lasts 20–45 minutes. If the officer finds inconsistencies
or suspicious details, spouses may be questioned separately — in such cases, the process can
take 1.5 to 3 hours.
If inconsistencies appear, a second ‘Stokes Interview’ may be required, where spouses are
questioned separately.

2. Common Marriage Interview Questions (2025)
Below are categories of questions commonly asked during marriage-based interviews:
• How and when did you meet your spouse?
• When did your relationship become serious?
• How did the marriage proposal happen?
• What was your wedding like? Who attended?
• How do you usually spend weekends together?
• Have you met each other’s families?
• What are your future plans as a couple?

3. Tips for a Successful Interview
• Review your application before the interview — make sure you both remember details
correctly.
• Bring updated relationship evidence, such as new photos, joint bank statements, or lease
agreements.
• Dress neatly and arrive early.
• Be honest and natural in your answers — officers are trained to notice rehearsed or
memorized responses.
• Do not panic if the officer asks personal or detailed questions — this is normal in marriage
interviews.

4. Documents to Bring (2025)
Applicants should bring originals and copies of the following:
• Interview notice (Form I-797C)
• Passports and Green Card (if applicable)
• Marriage certificate
• Birth certificates of both spouses
• Joint lease, mortgage, or utility bills
• Joint bank account statements and insurance policies
• Photos together (family events, holidays, travel, etc.)

5. What If the Officer Has Doubts?
If the USCIS officer suspects a fraudulent marriage, they may schedule a second, more
detailed interview — known as a Stokes Interview — where both spouses are questioned
separately. Their answers are then compared for consistency.
It’s crucial to remain calm, truthful, and consistent. Bringing strong, genuine documentation
and being well-prepared can make a significant difference.

6. After the Interview
If the officer is satisfied, your case may be approved the same day or within a few weeks. If
additional evidence is needed, you’ll receive an RFE (Request for Evidence). If more
investigation is required, a follow-up interview might be scheduled.

7. Final Thoughts
A marriage-based Green Card interview can feel intimidating, but preparation and honesty go a
long way. Knowing what to expect, organizing your documents, and understanding your case
thoroughly can help ensure a smooth experience.
At Okanlaw Group, we guide our clients through every step of the marriage-based Green Card
process — from filing Form I-130 and I-485 to preparing for the interview itself. Contact our
experienced team for professional support