Immigration And Criminal Defense Lawyers

Understanding the goal of a green card marriage interview

On Behalf of | Nov 3, 2025 | Immigration Law |

You originally came to the United States on a short-term visa. Maybe you were a student, so you got a student visa so that you could attend an American university. Perhaps you were a tourist and your plan was simply to spend a few months exploring the United States.

Either way, you met someone who was a citizen, the two of you fell in love, and you decided to get married. You now need to stay in the United States much longer, so you want to use your marriage to get a green card. Part of the process may be going to a green card marriage interview. What is the government’s goal, and what type of questions will you have to answer?

The authenticity of your marriage

The goal is not to quiz you on any special knowledge or anything of this nature. The interview is not difficult in an intellectual sense. Instead, it is just to ensure that your marriage is actually authentic and that you are not just pretending to be in a relationship to get a green card.

As such, the questions that you are asked will often have to do with your relationship itself. Examples could include:

  • Where did the two of you meet? 
  • Where did you go on your first date? 
  • Do you have plans to start a family? 
  • Have you met each other’s extended families? 
  • What daily routines do you have? 
  • Who takes care of certain chores around the house, like cooking and cleaning?

All the interviewer is really looking for is that you and your significant other provide similar answers. They just want to see that you are actually in a relationship and building a life together.

Getting a green card

Marriage can be one way to apply for a green card, but it is certainly not the only way. Take the time to carefully look into all the options at your disposal.