Affidavits by third parties. Do they have to wait until we're actually married?

[Sabela 16]

You're amazing. Thanks @JeanneAdil, fellow TN resident (me, not yet, but I hope soon! :))

[bakphx1 789]

Staying with your question, I would say no.  The affidavits are more about you being a couple.  They really are about what the people have observed, such as you living or socializing as an exclusive couple.  They aren’t going to be the main point of your case, but a couple of them round out the package.

[Kai G. Llewellyn 838]

6 hours ago, Sabela said:

Hi everyone. I'd appreciate your help in this matter. I have a question about the affidavits sworn by third parties as additional evidence of the relationship. Here is what it says on the USCIS website: "Affidavits by third parties having personal knowledge of the bona fides of the marital relationship. Each affidavit must contain [...] and complete information and details explaining how the person acquired his or her knowledge of your marriage". Our friends who know the relationship are already working on the letters (and some of them finished and notarized already), BUT we won't be getting married until we're reunited again. Then, we'll file everything together shortly after. My question is: my friends can't say that they know the bona fides of the marital relationship at this point bc we aren't currently married, but can only attest for the validity / authenticity of our love. Is this valid? Anyone who was on a similar situation and can confirm this for me? One of my friends is concerned because she says she has to mention we're married, but we're currently not, so... It's a tough spot. Do they have to wait to sign the affidavits and notarize them until we are married? Any advice would be much appreciated. Thanks.

In respect to your question, no. My mum submitted an affidavit for us just before me and my hubby got married, USCIS approved the petition. But don't rely on the affidavits, other evidence of your time spent together is better.

Edited May 8, 2021 by Kai (CanadaDude)

[Sabela 16]

Great, @Kai (CanadaDude). Thank you for the information.

[pushbrk 12,903]

I didn't read all the posts, but affidavits can be worse than useless and actually hurt your case.  For one thing, they can make you look desperate.  Actual wording can be misinterpreted against you, and if somebody sees something they think is contrived.  Affidavits from third parties are included in the list for those who have nothing else.  Several visits is not "nothing else".

 

You are not proving your love.  Arranged marriages are also bona fide.  As others have said, focus first on evidence of time spent together in person.  If you want to "round out" your package, include some examples of how and how frequently you communicate when NOT together.

[Sabela 16]

Perfect.  Yes, after reading all of your comments a decision has been made on not turning them in. Thanks again for your feedback.