Marriage Fraud Investigations on the Rise: What Genuine Couples Must Know in 2025

In 2025, USCIS and Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) are increasing marriage fraud investigations. While fraudulent cases are rare compared to genuine ones, legitimate couples can still face unexpected scrutiny. Understanding what officers look for can help protect your case.

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Why Marriage Fraud Is a Priority for USCIS

Marriage fraud has always been a concern for U.S. immigration authorities. A fraudulent marriage—one entered into solely to gain immigration benefits—is a federal crime. In recent years, USCIS has increased training, launched new fraud detection teams, and collaborated more closely with ICE.

This means even genuine couples may face more questioning, RFEs (Requests for Evidence), or surprise interviews.

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The Penalties for Marriage Fraud

Marriage fraud carries serious consequences:

• Denial of the green card application.

• Removal proceedings for the foreign spouse.

• Federal criminal charges with up to 5 years in prison.

• Fines of up to $250,000.

• A permanent bar from future immigration benefits.

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How Officers Detect Potential Fraud

Officers look for warning signs in applications and interviews, including:

• Large age differences with no cultural explanation.

• Marriages that occurred shortly before filing.

• Couples who cannot answer basic questions consistently.

• Missing or minimal evidence of shared life.

• Prior history of immigration violations or multiple filings.

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The Role of the Stokes Interview

If USCIS doubts a marriage, it may schedule a Stokes interview, where spouses are questioned separately. Officers compare answers for consistency on details such as:

• Household routines.

• Family relationships.

• Daily habits.

• Finances and bills.

Discrepancies can lead to denial—even if the marriage is genuine.

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Why Genuine Couples Are Sometimes Targeted

Not every flagged case is fraudulent. Common reasons real marriages face scrutiny include:

• Lack of documentation due to cultural or financial reasons.

• Newlyweds who have not yet built joint accounts or leases.

• Couples who live apart for work or school.

• Limited English skills leading to confusion in interviews.

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How to Prove a Bona Fide Marriage

Strong evidence is the key to success. Couples should gather:

• Joint financial records (bank accounts, insurance, taxes).

• Housing records (lease, mortgage, utilities).

• Photos with family and friends over time.

• Travel records showing trips taken together.

• Birth certificates of children from the marriage.

• Affidavits from people who know the couple well.

The more consistent, varied, and long-term the evidence, the harder it is for USCIS to question the marriage.

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Handling an RFE or NOID

If USCIS issues a Request for Evidence (RFE) or a Notice of Intent to Deny (NOID), couples must act quickly. These notices give you a final chance to strengthen your case.

• Respond fully, with additional evidence.

• Address every issue USCIS raises.

• Seek legal help to ensure no mistake is made.

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What If ICE Knocks on Your Door?

In rare cases, ICE investigators may conduct in-person visits. Couples should:

• Remain calm and cooperative.

• Provide truthful answers.

• Avoid volunteering unnecessary details that create confusion.

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The Importance of Legal Guidance

Even genuine marriages can face delays, RFEs, or denials if USCIS doubts the evidence. Having an experienced immigration attorney can make the difference—from preparing a strong initial filing to responding to fraud investigations.

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Conclusion

Marriage fraud investigations are increasing in 2025, and genuine couples may feel the impact. By filing early, documenting thoroughly, and preparing for possible interviews, couples can protect themselves from unnecessary delays or denials.

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FAQs (Quick Answers)

What is considered marriage fraud?

A marriage entered into solely to obtain immigration benefits, without intent to build a real life together.

What happens if USCIS thinks my marriage is fraudulent?

Your case may be denied, and you may be referred to immigration court or even face criminal charges.

Do genuine couples ever face fraud accusations?

Yes. Even real marriages can be questioned if documentation is weak or interview answers conflict.

What is a Stokes interview?

A second, more detailed interview where spouses are questioned separately to test the legitimacy of the marriage.

How can I prove my marriage is real?

Provide diverse, consistent evidence such as joint finances, housing, photos, travel records, and affidavits.

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If you and your spouse are preparing a marriage-based green card case, don’t risk being caught off guard. Our office helps genuine couples prepare strong filings, respond to RFEs, and defend against fraud allegations.

📞 Call us at +1 561.600.1166, schedule a consultation at calendly.com/imm-law, or message us on WhatsApp at https://wa.link/2liwjz to protect your family’s future.