If you’re applying for a marriage-based green card in 2025, heads up: USCIS is tightening the rules. New editions of forms like I-485, I-129F, and I-130 are now mandatory, and mixing old and new pages could get your application rejected. Couples must also clearly indicate whether they are adjusting their status or undergoing consular processing, and separate payments are required.

The agency is also emphasising marriage fraud prevention and demanding legal proof of marriage for refugees and asylees. Meanwhile, processing times are already creeping up. It’s clear that USCIS is getting serious about documentation, fraud checks, and following procedure to the letter. Don’t get caught off guard!