Guide to Submitting Divorce Decrees for Green Card Applications
Who must submit a divorce decree:
- The green card applicant and sponsoring spouse must submit photocopied certified copies of final divorce decrees for all prior marriages.
- Original or certified copies must be brought to the green card interview.
For marriages ended by death or annulment:
- Submit a photocopy of the spouse's death certificate or certificate of annulment.
- Bring original or certified copies to the interview.
Note: Non-English documents require certified English translations.
How to obtain divorce decrees:
1. For U.S. divorces:
- Contact the county clerk's office that issued the divorce.
- Request from the state's vital records office.
2. For foreign divorces:
- Consult the U.S. Department of State's reciprocity schedule: https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas/Visa-Reciprocity-and-Civil-Documents-by-Country.html
Alternative documents if original records are unavailable:
1. A notarized personal affidavit describing the marriage and explaining why official copies are unavailable.
2. A certified statement from the appropriate government agency explaining why records are unavailable.
- If a government statement is unobtainable, submit a notarized affidavit from an older parent or close relative with personal knowledge of the marriage or divorce.
For more information on marriage-based green cards, visit: https://www.uscis.gov/green-card/green-card-eligibility/green-card-for-immediate-relatives-of-us-citizen
Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Consult a qualified immigration attorney for advice specific to your situation.