Navigating the reasons for a green card denial can feel overwhelming, as the green card process is quite extensive. However, if you have been denied a green card, you’ll need to know what to do next if you still wish to immigrate to the United States.

At The Berdugo Law Firm, APC, we are dedicated to providing our clients with the legal representation they need as they navigate a rejected I-485 application. Keep reading to find out the most common reasons for green card denial and how to avoid a green card denial.

Top Reasons Green Card Applications Get Denied

Are you worried that your green card application will be denied? If so, there are certain pitfalls you should be aware of so that you can submit an application that has the best chance of success.

Incorrect Forms

One of the most common reasons for a green card denial is issues with your green card forms. When you are filing your green card forms, it is absolutely essential that these are filled out correctly and accurately. Even a small error or inconsistency can result in your green card being denied, or at the very least, delayed.

To avoid running into this problem, you need to take your time and follow the instructions for the immigration forms. You should also consult an immigration attorney, who can help you double-check for any errors.

Lack of Supporting Documents

A big part of applying for a green card is supplying supporting documentation proving that you meet the eligibility requirements. Along with your forms, you need to provide documents, such as:

• Proof of your identity
• Proof of eligibility
• Photographs
• Proof of financial support
• Proof of a legitimate relationship
• Medical examination report

If you do not provide the required supporting documents, this will usually result in a request for additional evidence.

An immigration attorney can help you provide all of the supporting documents necessary for your specific green card application. This is important since the documents you need to provide will vary depending on the visa category you are applying for.

Not Following the Green Card Process

There are several steps in the green card process that you have to follow in order to be approved. The first step is filing your initial petition, then waiting for USCIS approval. Throughout this process, you will also have to attend a biometrics (fingerprinting) appointment as well as an interview with an immigration officer, in most cases. 

A common reason many people are denied a green card is that they fail to either attend the biometrics appointment or their interview. To avoid running into this issue, you need to keep track of the date and time for all of your appointments and timely request rescheduling when needed.

Failure to Prove Bona Fide Marriage

If you are applying for a marriage-based green card, the green card process can be a bit more complex. Many marriage-base green cards are denied due to the suspicion of immigration fraud or because there isn’t enough evidence to prove that the marriage is bona fide.

To avoid this pitfall, you need to provide substantial evidence proving that the marriage is legitimate and not fabricated for the purpose of immigrating to the U.S. To do this, you should include certain supporting documents with your application:

• Any documents regarding shared ownership.
• Evidence of communication, such as call records, text messages, emails, letters, etc.
• Evidence of a shared living address.
• Statements from friends, family members, neighbors, etc.
• Documents showing joined finances or joined financial responsibilities.

Inadmissibility Grounds

Another reason why someone may receive a green card denial is due to inadmissibility. There are inadmissibility grounds that bar certain individuals from being able to legally come to the United States or obtain lawful status.

Examples of why someone may be found to be inadmissible include having unlawful presence, being a national security risk, evidence of criminal activity, or having communicable diseases.

What to Do If You Receive a Request for Evidence (RFE)

If you have received a request for evidence, or an RFE, you need to carefully examine this document. Review the document so that you understand why additional evidence is requested and the type of evidence being asked for. It is a good idea to ask your immigration attorney to also review the document in case you have missed anything.

You will need to prepare your response, addressing or including any missing documents, and writing a cover letter. Make sure you do all of this within the designated deadline that the USCIS has given you. You will usually have between 30 and 90 days to respond, and the USCIS will take an additional 60 days to review your response.

FAQ Section

Can I fix a mistake on my green card application after submitting it?

Yes, to do this, you will need to submit a typographic error service request or send a correction letter. 

Will a criminal conviction automatically result in denial?

No, not all criminal convictions will automatically result in your green card application being denied. The only instances where this is the case is when the crime involved moral turpitude, which labels the crime as depraved, offensive, or vile.

What happens if I miss my green card interview?

If you miss or skip your interview without notifying the USCIS in advance, your application will be labeled as being abandoned and will either be closed or denied

Can I appeal a green card denial?

Yes, you have the right to appeal the decision if your green card application has been denied. You can do this by requesting further review by the Administrative Appeals Office.

Contact an Immigration Attorney at The Berdugo Law Firm

Receiving a USCIS green card denial in 2025 can be quite a blow, but this doesn’t have to be the end of your immigration journey. A green card lawyer can help you submit a strong green card application, as well as navigate any issues that may come up along the way. At The Berdugo Law Firm, we are committed to providing our clients with the legal assistance they need if they are applying for a green card or responding to an RFE. Contact us today at 323-642-9933 to speak with an immigration attorney about your case.