For couples in New Orleans, applying for a marriage-based green card is a crucial step in building their future together. Denials can be overwhelming and often happen for unexpected reasons, including missing documents, form errors, or minor inconsistencies during the interview.
At Stephenson, Chávarri & Dawson, we regularly work with families who have faced these setbacks. Over time, we have seen the same issues appear again and again in marriage-based cases.
By knowing the common mistakes and how USCIS reviews applications, couples can take steps to avoid problems and strengthen their petitions from the start.
Common Reasons for Marriage-Based Green Card Denials
Marriage-based green card applications receive close attention from USCIS officers. A denial usually points to missing evidence, procedural mistakes, or statutory barriers. Some of the most common reasons include:
- Insufficient proof of a bona fide marriage: USCIS expects more than wedding photos. Couples should provide joint bank accounts, leases or mortgages, insurance policies, and tax returns to demonstrate a shared life in marriage.
- Errors in forms or documentation: Applications can be denied for missing signatures, outdated forms, or missing certified translations. Even small inconsistencies in names or dates can raise red flags.
- Affidavit of Support (Form I-864) issues: The sponsoring spouse must show income above the federal poverty levels. Missing tax transcripts, lack of U.S. domicile, or forgetting a joint sponsor often leads to rejections.
- Interview inconsistencies: If USCIS detects concerns, couples may face a Stokes interview. Conflicting answers, such as differences in daily routines, travel details, or living arrangements, can cause officers to doubt the marriage.
- Inadmissibility grounds: Certain applicants may be ineligible due to unlawful presence, past fraud or misrepresentation, or some criminal histories. These situations often require waivers before approval is possible.
By understanding these pitfalls, couples can better prepare their applications and reduce the risk of a denial.
USCIS Policy Manual Update (August 2025)
In August 2025, USCIS updated its Policy Manual, clarifying standards for screening and vetting marriage-based cases. Officers now apply stricter guidelines when reviewing evidence and deciding whether to refer couples for interviews.
Another change is that denied applicants are more likely to receive a Notice to Appear (NTA) in immigration court, raising the stakes because removal proceedings may follow. Families should prepare more thoroughly than ever before, ensuring that every part of the petition is consistent and well-documented. For official guidance, applicants can review the USCIS Policy Manual directly.
I-130 vs. I-485 Denial Pathways
Denials can happen at different stages, depending on which form is under review.
- An I-130 Petition for Alien Relatives is filed to prove the marriage is legally valid and genuine.
- If USCIS doubts the marriage is real, or if a prior marriage was not properly terminated, the I-130 may be denied.
- An I-485 Application to Adjust Status reviews admissibility factors, such as whether the foreign spouse is allowed to remain in the U.S. This can be denied for reasons like unlawful presence, an incomplete medical exam (Form I-693), or public charge concerns.
- Remedies differ by the type of denial. I-130 denials can often be fixed by refiling with stronger evidence. I-485 denials may require filing a motion to reopen or reconsider (Form I-290B), appealing to the Administrative Appeals Office, or pursuing consular processing abroad.
Strengthening Your Application
USCIS values evidentiary quality over quantity. A strong case shows a consistent, well-documented life together.
- Financial proof: Joint bank accounts, leases, insurance, and utilities carry the most weight. Affidavits help, but cannot replace documents.
- Consistency: Names, dates, and addresses must align across all forms and records.
- Louisiana requirement: Only parish-issued certified marriage certificates are valid; unofficial copies risk denial.
- Translations: Birth, divorce, or marriage records in other languages need certified translations with an accurate statement.
- Interview prep: Interview prep: USCIS officers in New Orleans know local documents and housing norms. Couples should review records and prepare for detailed questions.
Strong, consistent evidence paired with careful preparation significantly reduces denial risks.
Common Marriage-Based Green Card Denial Reasons
|
Reason for Denial |
Typical Issue |
How to Avoid |
| Weak Bona Fide Evidence | Few shared financial or residential ties | Provide joint bank, lease, insurance, and tax returns |
| I-864 Affidavit Issues | Sponsor income below poverty line, missing transcripts | Add joint sponsor, file updated tax returns |
| Interview Inconsistencies | Spouses give different answers | Prepare with documented details of shared life |
| Translation / Documentation Errors | Missing certified translations, name mismatches | Hire a certified translator, check consistency |
| Inadmissibility Grounds | Unlawful presence, fraud, criminal record | Disclose fully, explore waiver if applicable |
Post-Denial Options
A denial does not always close the door to permanent residency. Couples may file a motion to reopen or reconsider if they believe USCIS made an error. Refilling is also possible, especially when more substantial evidence is now available.
In some cases, consular processing abroad is a better option. This route involves additional steps and sometimes waivers, but may be the only path forward if the spouse is ineligible to adjust status within the U.S.
INA Section 212(a)(6)(C)(i): Any misrepresentation of a material fact to procure an immigration benefit can result in permanent inadmissibility, unless waived.
Each denial has different consequences, including possible NTAs. Couples should carefully evaluate their strategy. The USCIS page on Denials and Appeals outlines procedural options.
FAQs
What is the difference between an I-130 and an I-485 denial?
I-130 denials question the validity of the marriage. I-485 denials address admissibility or eligibility to adjust status. Both require different strategies to resolve effectively.
Can I reapply if my marriage-based green card is denied?
Yes, many applicants refile with more substantial evidence. The best option depends on why the application was denied in the first place.
What happens if I get a Notice to Appear (NTA) after denial?
An NTA means removal proceedings may begin. It is critical to respond quickly and explore available defenses with experienced legal guidance.
How do I prepare for a Stokes interview in New Orleans?
Review shared documents, practice consistent answers, and prepare for detailed personal questions. Preparation reduces stress and improves confidence at the interview.
Does a denied application affect my spouse’s immigration status?
A denial does not impact the U.S. citizen spouse but can leave the foreign spouse without legal status, creating risks of removal.
Conclusion
Marriage-based green card denials are frustrating, but they often happen for preventable reasons like weak evidence, affidavit of support issues, or mistakes in forms. USCIS policy changes in 2025 have made the review process stricter, so careful preparation is more important than ever.
Families in New Orleans facing these challenges deserve clear guidance and strong representation. At Stephenson, Chávarri & Dawson, our attorneys understand how to navigate both the local USCIS field office process and the complex federal rules that apply.
If your case has been denied or you are preparing to file, learning from these common mistakes can make the path forward smoother and less stressful.
