India, April 6 -- The United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has rolled out major updates to the marriage-based green card process. Applicants now face higher application fees, longer waits, and severe scrutiny. They should also use updated forms, provide complete documentation, and is some cases - use professional guidance. Here's what you need to know-and how to get ahead of the curve.

USCIS has revamped critical forms like the I-130 (Petition for Alien Relative) and I-485 (Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status). Only the latest versions, available on the USCIS website, will be accepted-submit an old one, and you risk rejection or delays. On top of that, filing fees are climbing, part of the a...