1) Financial/Support Barriers (Form I-864).
You must meet income at 125% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines and prove U.S. domicile. Common pitfalls: relying on unstable income, missing tax transcripts, or living abroad without a clear plan to reestablish domicile.

2) Inadmissibility Landmines.
Your spouse may face bars for unlawful presence (3/10-year bars), misrepresentation, certain criminal issues, or prior removals/entries.

3) Proving a Real Marriage.
USCIS/consulates scrutinize for fraud indicators: brief courtships, language barriers, inconsistent timelines, limited cohabitation, or thin commingling of finances. Strong evidence—joint leases, taxes, insurance, kids’ school records, photos with context, messages, and affidavits—often decides outcomes.

4) Public Charge & Affidavit Quality.
While the current public-charge framework centers on the I-864, weak financials (or heavy reliance on means-tested benefits) can trigger extra questioning or denials. Consistency across the I-130, I-485/DS-260, and I-864 is critical.

5) Consular Minefield.
If processing abroad, expect local document rules, police certificates, and interview-day surprises (221(g) refusals for missing items). Some applicants face security screening (e.g., DS-5535), adding months.

6) Timing & Travel Risks.
Overstays, unauthorized work, or international travel at the wrong moment can derail adjustment, trigger bars, or lock your spouse outside the U.S.

Winning Strategies

• Map the case before filing: pick adjustment vs. consular intentionally.
• Over-document bona fides and domicile; use tax transcripts, paystubs, and employment letters.
• If any bar is possible, front-load waiver evidence (hardship, treatment plans, country-conditions).
• Track deadlines, biometrics, medicals, and interview prep.

How we help
We audit risks, structure filings, prepare waiver packets, and coach for interviews—turning “penalties” into a clear, evidence-driven path to approval.