US Immigration from Myanmar

The guide says:

The above isn t what USCIS says. Instead USCIS has this general guidance:

Do not send original documents unless specifically requested in the form instructions or applicable regulations.

and this specific guidance:

5. What documents do you need to prove family relationship?
You have to prove that there is a family relationship between you and the beneficiary. If you are filing for a relative listed below, submit the following documentation to prove the family relationship.
A. A spouse:
(1) A copy of your marriage certificate;
(2) If either you were or your spouse was previously married, submit copies of documents showing that each of the prior marriages was legally terminated;

I believe experiences from VJ members support the claim that certified copies are not needed. In addition, sometimes these documents were issued from outside the USA and they are difficult to replace. Or they were issued inside the USA but several decades back and the jurisdiction can no longer produce an official and/or certified copy. Since USCIS in general does not original unsolicited certified / official aka original documents following the guide s advice could prove costly for some beneficiaries and petitioners.

Suggested new text for guide:

Says:

A copy of your marriage certificate. Note: While a regular copy is allowed, submitting a certified copy is preferred as some members have received an RFE asking for this (so if one is available use that instead).

I do not believe this is consistent with current rough consensus and I believe thousands of VJers have sent photo copies of marriage certificates without an RFE.

Recommended new text:

A photo copy of your marriage certificate.