Crucial Documentation for Iranian Couples Pursuing a Green Card

​For Iranian couples seeking to obtain a green card in the United States, the process can be both exciting and challenging. One of the most critical aspects of the journey is gathering and submitting the necessary documentation. It is essential to pay close attention to the required documents, as any missing or incorrect information may lead to delays or even denials of your application. This comprehensive guide will outline the crucial documentation for Iranian couples pursuing a green card through marriage.

Proof of Identity and Citizenship
The U.S. citizen and the Iranian spouse must provide valid proof of identity and citizenship. This typically includes:

• A valid, unexpired passport
• A birth certificate (Shenasname) (translated into English, if necessary)
• A copy of the Iranian spouse’s military service card or exemption card
• A copy of the Iranian spouse's visa or I-94 record (if currently in the United States) 

Proof of Relationship
To establish the legitimacy of your marriage, you must provide ample evidence of your relationship. Some examples include: 

• A certified copy of your marriage certificate (translated into English, if necessary)
• Joint financial statements (bank accounts, credit cards, etc.)
• Joint ownership or lease agreements for property or vehicles
• Joint utility bills (gas, electricity, water, etc.)
• Affidavits from friends or family members attesting to the bona fide nature of your relationship
• Photos of you and your spouse together at various events or occasions, with dates and descriptions
• Evidence of correspondence between you and your spouse (emails, text messages, phone records, etc.)

Proof of Termination of Prior Marriages
If either spouse was previously married, you must provide proof that the prior marriage was legally terminated with evidence such as:

• A certified copy of the final divorce decree or annulment (translated into English, if necessary)
• A certified copy of a death certificate, if a prior spouse is deceased (translated into English, if necessary)

Medical Examination
The Iranian spouse must undergo a medical examination by a designated civil surgeon in the United States or a panel physician outside the United States. The examination is required to ensure that the applicant has no medical conditions that would make them inadmissible to the United States. You must submit the medical examination results (I-693) in a sealed envelope along with proof of required vaccinations and any additional medical documentations (if requested by the examining physician). 

U.S. Citizen or Permanent Resident’s Financial Paperwork: Affidavit of Support
The U.S. citizen or Legal Permanent Resident spouse must demonstrate that they have the financial ability to support the Iranian spouse without relying on public assistance. You must submit a completed Form I-864, Affidavit of Support, along with the following supporting documents:

• Proof of current employment or self-employment (e.g., pay stubs, a letter from your employer, tax returns)
• Copies of federal income tax returns for the past three years
• Bank statements or other financial documents to demonstrate assets, if necessary

Employment Authorization and Advance Parole (If Applying Within the United States)
If the Iranian spouse is applying for a green card from within the United States and wants employment authorization or wishes to travel abroad while their green card application is pending, they should file Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization, and Form I-131, Application for Travel Document. You must submit these forms forms along with the required supporting documents, such as:

• Passport-style photographs
• A copy of the Iranian spouse's visa or I-94 Record 
• Proof of the U.S. citizen spouse's citizenship (birth certificate, passport, or naturalization certificate)

Biometrics Appointment
The Iranian spouse will be required to attend a biometrics appointment to have their fingerprints, photograph, and signature taken for background checks and the eventual green card. USCIS will send the appointment notice after receiving your green card application, and it is essential to follow the instructions and attend the scheduled appointment. Ensure that you bring the following items to the appointment: 

• A valid, unexpired passport or other government-issued identification
• The appointment notice

Additional Required Forms (If Applying From Within the United States) 
Along with the above mentioned documentation, Iranian couples pursuing a green card must also complete and submit several forms to the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). These forms include:

• Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative: the U.S. citizen spouse must complete this form to establish their relationship with their Iranian spouse.
• Form I-130A, Supplemental Information for Spouse Beneficiary: This form provides additional biographical information about the Iranian spouse.
• Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status: The Iranian spouse completes this form to apply for adjustment of status (green card).

Consular Processing (If Applying for Green Card Abroad)
If the Iranian spouse is applying for a green card from outside the United States, they will go through consular processing at a U.S. embassy or consulate which involves submitting additional forms and documentation, including:

• Form DS-260, Immigrant Visa Application: The Iranian spouse completes this form online to apply for an immigrant visa.
• A police clearance certificate any other country where the applicant has lived for six months or more since turning 16. (NOTE: a police certificate is not required for Iran) 
• Passport-style photographs
• Additional civil documents, such as military records or court records, if applicable

Preparing for the Green Card Interview
Once all the required documentation has been submitted and the background checks are complete, the Iranian spouse will be scheduled for an interview with a USCIS officer or consular officer. It is crucial to prepare for this interview by gathering and organizing all original documents, including:

• Valid passports
• Certified copies of birth and marriage certificates
• Evidence of the U.S. citizen spouse's citizenship
• Original or certified copies of divorce decrees or death certificates, if applicable
• The sealed medical examination results
• Financial documents supporting the Affidavit of Support
• Any additional evidence of the bona fide nature of the marriage

Conclusion
Navigating the green card process for Iranian couples can be a complex and time-consuming. However, by understanding the crucial documentation requirements and following the steps outlined in this guide, you can increase your chances of success and avoid potential delays or complications. Remember, it is always recommended to consult with an experienced immigration attorney familiar with the unique challenges Iranian applicants face. An experienced immigration attorney can provide valuable guidance and assistance throughout the process, ensuring you have the best possible chance of achieving your dream of building a life together in the United States.

Najmeh Mahmoudjafari, Esq.
Najmeh is the Founder and Lead Immigration Attorney at ImmigraTrust Law, an immigration law practice in Orange County, California, representing individual and corporate clients in all 50 U.S. States and internationally. Najmeh can be reached at [email protected].

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DISCLAIMER: This article is for general information purposes only. It is not intended and does not constitute legal advice. This article does not create an attorney/client relationship and does not provide an attorney/client privilege. For legal advice about your specific case, please contact an attorney.