Such affidavits must be sworn to or affirmed by third parties having personal knowledge of the bona fides of the marital relationship. Each affidavit must contain the full name and address, date and place of birth of the person making the affidavit as well as the following:
1. his or her relationship to the petitioner, if any, and
2. complete information and details explaining how the person acquired his or her knowledge of the marriage.
The instructions for the I-751 Petition describes the affidavits that must accompany the petition as follows:
"Affidavits sworn to or affirmed by at least two people who have known both of you since your conditional residence was granted and have personal knowledge of your marriage and relationship. (Such persons may be required to testify before an immigration officer as to the information contained in the affidavit.) The original affidavit must be submitted and also contain the following information regarding the person making the affidavit: his or her full name and address; date and place of birth; relationship to you or your spouse, if any; and full information and complete details explaining how the person acquired his or her knowledge."
A bona fide marriage affidavit is a legal document that provides a sworn statement attesting to the authenticity of a marriage. This affidavit serves as evidence that the marriage was entered into willingly and in good faith, without any fraudulent or deceitful intentions. It is often required in immigration cases, where individuals may be seeking a visa or green card based on their marriage to a U.S. citizen or permanent resident. A sample bona fide marriage affidavit typically includes the following information: 1. Header: The document usually begins with a header that includes the title "Bona Fide Marriage Affidavit" and the names of the individuals involved in the marriage. 2. Personal information: The affidavit should include the personal details of both the petitioner (the U.S. citizen or permanent resident) and the beneficiary (the foreign spouse). This includes their full names, dates of birth, places of birth, contact information, and any relevant identification numbers (such as a Social Security number or alien registration number). 3. Background information: The affidavit may include a section where the petitioner provides background information about their relationship with the beneficiary. This may include how and where they met, details about their courtship and dating period, and any significant milestones in their relationship. 4. Marriage details: The document should include the date and place of the marriage ceremony, as well as any relevant information about the officiant who performed the ceremony. It may also include details about the type of marriage ceremony conducted (civil, religious, etc.). 5. Social and financial aspects: The affidavit may include information about the couple's shared residential address, joint financial accounts, joint ownership of property, and any other evidence of cohabitation or financial intertwining. 6. Relationship evidence: The petitioner may provide detailed information about their day-to-day life with their spouse, including how they share responsibilities, household duties, and decision-making. They may also mention any vacations, holidays, or family events they have celebrated together. 7. Supporting documents: A bona fide marriage affidavit can be supported by attaching additional documents, such as photographs of the couple at various stages of their relationship, joint bank statements, lease agreements, utility bills, or affidavits from friends and family members who can vouch for the authenticity of the marriage. Different types of bona fide marriage affidavit samples may vary slightly based on specific immigration requirements or the preferences of the issuing authority. Some samples may include sections for additional personal information or request more extensive documentation. However, the essential purpose of all bona fide marriage affidavits remains the same — to establish the legitimacy and genuineness of a marital union.
