When filing Form I-751 to remove the conditions on your green card, you must prove that your marriage was entered into in good faith—not just for immigration purposes. This requirement applies whether you’re filing jointly with your spouse or requesting a waiver due to divorce, abuse, or other circumstances.
🧐 What Is a “Good Faith” Marriage?
USCIS defines a bona fide marriage as one entered into with the intent to build a life together, not solely to obtain immigration benefits. This means you and your spouse:
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Lived together (in most cases)
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Shared financial responsibilities
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Built a life that resembles that of other married couples
📂 What Evidence Can Prove Good Faith?
You should include as many of the following documents as possible:
💵 Financial Documents
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Joint bank account statements
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Joint tax returns (Form 1040)
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Shared credit cards or loans
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Utility bills with both names
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Lease or mortgage in both names
🏠 Proof of Living Together
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Lease agreements
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Correspondence addressed to both of you at the same address
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Photos showing shared residence
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Home or renter’s insurance listing both names
📸 Personal and Social Evidence
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Wedding photos and albums
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Travel itineraries together
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Social media posts showing your relationship
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Affidavits from friends or family confirming your relationship
👶 If You Have Children
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Birth certificates listing both spouses as parents
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School or medical records listing both parents
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Family photos and childcare responsibilities
⚠️ What If You’re Separated or Divorced?
If you’re filing with a waiver, you still need to show that your marriage was genuine at the time it began. This is often done with:
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Early photos and financial documents
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Affidavits
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Documentation explaining why the marriage ended
💡 Tips to Strengthen Your Case
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Organize your documents chronologically
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Label and explain each item
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Avoid submitting only photos—combine them with hard evidence
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Include a personal statement describing your relationship history