What should couples aim to achieve through discussions before the interview?

Couples should aim for confidence in their relationship story before the USCIS marriage interview. This means having an authentic and cohesive narrative about their relationship that they can communicate clearly to the interviewers. Confidence stems from a genuine understanding of each other’s experiences, thoughts, and emotions related to their relationship, which allows them to answer questions more naturally and truthfully.

This approach is crucial because the interviewers are interested in the legitimacy of the marriage rather than a perfectly rehearsed script. Being confident reflects a deep emotional connection and shared history—qualities that underscore the authenticity of the relationship.

While it might be helpful to understand facts about each other or previous relationships, simply memorizing information or seeking agreement on every detail may lead to inconsistencies or create pressure to deliver a flawless performance, which isn't necessary for demonstrating a genuine relationship. Understanding previous relationships can be relevant but is generally less critical than the couple’s story about their marriage.