Marrying US Citizen No Longer Guarantees a Green Card: Immigration Attorney
The United States has long been a beacon for immigrants seeking a better life, with many hoping to obtain a Green Card, which grants permanent residence in the country. For years, marrying a US citizen was considered one of the most straightforward paths to obtaining a Green Card. However, according to Brad Bernstein, an American immigration attorney, this is no longer the case. In a recent revelation, Bernstein stated that marrying an American no longer guarantees a Green Card, as marriage-based Green Card applications are being scrutinized more closely under the Trump administration.
The Trump administration’s stricter immigration policies have led to a significant shift in the way marriage-based Green Card applications are evaluated. Officials are now assessing whether a marriage is genuine in daily life, rather than just relying on the legal documentation. This means that couples who are legally married but live apart are increasingly at risk of rejection. The emphasis on verifying the authenticity of a marriage has made it more challenging for immigrants to obtain a Green Card through marriage.
The change in approach is a result of the administration’s efforts to crack down on marriage fraud, where individuals enter into sham marriages solely for the purpose of obtaining a Green Card. While this is a legitimate concern, the new approach has also made it more difficult for genuine couples to navigate the system. Bernstein’s statement highlights the need for immigrants to be aware of the changing landscape of US immigration policies and to be prepared for a more rigorous evaluation process.
So, what do immigrants need to know? Firstly, it’s essential to understand that the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is now placing greater emphasis on verifying the legitimacy of a marriage. This means that couples will need to provide extensive documentation to prove that their marriage is genuine. This can include evidence of cohabitation, joint financial accounts, and social integration, among other things.
Couples who are planning to apply for a Green Card through marriage should be prepared to provide a significant amount of documentation, including:
- Proof of cohabitation, such as utility bills, lease agreements, and bank statements
- Joint financial accounts, such as joint bank accounts, credit cards, and loans
- Evidence of social integration, such as social media accounts, photos, and witness statements
- Proof of communication, such as emails, letters, and phone records
In addition to providing documentation, couples should also be prepared for an interview with USCIS officials. This interview is an opportunity for the couple to demonstrate the legitimacy of their marriage and to address any concerns that the officials may have.
It’s also important for immigrants to be aware of the potential risks of rejection. If a couple’s application is rejected, they may be able to appeal the decision, but this can be a lengthy and costly process. In some cases, a rejection can also lead to further immigration consequences, such as deportation.
In light of these changes, it’s crucial for immigrants to seek the advice of an experienced immigration attorney. An attorney can help guide couples through the application process, ensure that they have the necessary documentation, and represent them in interviews and appeals.
The shift in approach to marriage-based Green Card applications is just one example of the changing landscape of US immigration policies. As the Trump administration continues to implement stricter immigration policies, it’s likely that we will see further changes to the system. For immigrants seeking to obtain a Green Card, it’s essential to stay informed and to be prepared for a more rigorous evaluation process.
In conclusion, marrying a US citizen is no longer a guarantee of obtaining a Green Card. The Trump administration’s stricter immigration policies have led to a more rigorous evaluation process, with officials assessing the legitimacy of a marriage in daily life. Immigrants seeking to obtain a Green Card through marriage should be prepared to provide extensive documentation and to demonstrate the authenticity of their marriage. With the help of an experienced immigration attorney, couples can navigate the complex application process and increase their chances of success.
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