Yes, a personal interview is required, and both of you must attend. The Immigration and Nationality Act states that all applications for green card through marriage to a US citizen can be approved only if the immigrant and the US citizen spouse are both interviewed by a USCIS Adjudication Officer. This interview is commonly referred to as an Adjustment of Status Interview or the marriage green card interview.

During the interview, the USCIS officer will examine whether you entered the marriage in good faith. The burden of proof lies with you and your spouse to prove that your marriage is legitimate. If, during the interview the officer suspects that your marriage was entered into for the sole purpose of obtaining immigration benefits, the officer will either:

• separate you and conduct independent interviews;
• schedule a second interview; or
• demand further documentation to prove that you married in good faith.

If the USCIS ultimately concludes that your marriage is illegitimate, your application will be denied, and removal (deportation) proceedings may be initiated against you. In a worst-case scenario, criminal proceedings may be initiated against one or both of you. A criminal conviction for green card marriage fraud can result in a fine of up to $250,000, five years in jail, or both.