Marrying US citizen no longer guarantees a Green Card: Immigration attorney
The notion that marrying a US citizen is a guaranteed pathway to obtaining a Green Card has been a long-standing belief among immigrants. However, according to Brad Bernstein, an American immigration attorney, this is no longer the case. Under the Trump administration, marriage-based Green Card applications are being scrutinized more closely, and officials are taking a more nuanced approach to assessing the legitimacy of marriages.
In the past, marrying a US citizen was often seen as a straightforward way to obtain a Green Card, which grants permanent residence in the United States. However, the current administration has implemented stricter policies and guidelines, making it more challenging for couples to navigate the immigration process. As Bernstein noted, “Marrying an American no longer guarantees a Green Card.” This shift in policy has significant implications for immigrants who are seeking to build a life in the United States with their spouse.
One of the primary factors that immigration officials are considering when evaluating marriage-based Green Card applications is whether the marriage is genuine in daily life. This means that couples who are legally married but live apart are increasingly at risk of rejection. Officials are looking for evidence that the couple has a genuine relationship, including shared financial responsibilities, joint ownership of property, and a demonstrated commitment to one another.
This increased scrutiny has significant implications for couples who are in long-distance relationships or who have other circumstances that prevent them from living together. For example, couples who are married but live in different countries due to work or family obligations may find it more difficult to demonstrate the legitimacy of their marriage. Similarly, couples who are married but have separate residences due to personal or financial reasons may also face challenges in their Green Card application.
The Trump administration’s stricter policies on marriage-based Green Card applications are part of a broader effort to reform the US immigration system. The administration has argued that the current system is vulnerable to abuse and that stricter guidelines are needed to ensure that only legitimate marriages are recognized. However, critics argue that these policies are overly restrictive and may unfairly penalize genuine couples who are seeking to build a life together in the United States.
For immigrants who are seeking to obtain a Green Card through marriage, it is essential to understand the new landscape of immigration policy. As Bernstein noted, “Couples who are legally married but live apart are increasingly at risk of rejection.” This means that couples must be prepared to demonstrate the legitimacy of their marriage, including providing evidence of a genuine relationship and a commitment to one another.
So, what can couples do to increase their chances of a successful Green Card application? First and foremost, it is essential to seek the advice of an experienced immigration attorney who can guide them through the process. Couples should also be prepared to provide extensive documentation, including proof of their marriage, joint financial records, and evidence of their relationship.
In addition, couples should be aware of the potential risks and challenges associated with the Green Card application process. For example, if a couple is found to have entered into a sham marriage, they may face serious consequences, including deportation and a ban on future immigration applications. Therefore, it is crucial that couples are honest and transparent throughout the application process.
In conclusion, marrying a US citizen is no longer a guaranteed pathway to obtaining a Green Card. Under the Trump administration, marriage-based Green Card applications are being scrutinized more closely, and officials are assessing whether a marriage is genuine in daily life. Couples who are legally married but live apart are increasingly at risk of rejection, and it is essential that they seek the advice of an experienced immigration attorney to navigate the complex and ever-changing landscape of US immigration policy.
As the US immigration system continues to evolve, it is crucial that immigrants and their families stay informed about the latest developments and policies. By understanding the new landscape of immigration policy, couples can better navigate the Green Card application process and increase their chances of a successful outcome.
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