Marrying US citizen no longer guarantees a Green Card: Immigration attorney
The United States has long been a beacon of hope and opportunity for immigrants from around the world. For many, obtaining a Green Card, which grants permanent residence in the country, is the ultimate goal. One of the most common ways to obtain a Green Card is through marriage to a US citizen. However, according to Brad Bernstein, an American immigration attorney, marrying a US citizen no longer guarantees a Green Card.
Under the Trump administration, marriage-based Green Card applications are being examined more closely than ever before. Immigration officials are now assessing whether a marriage is genuine in daily life, rather than just on paper. This means that couples who are legally married but live apart are increasingly at risk of rejection. This shift in policy has significant implications for immigrants who are seeking to obtain a Green Card through marriage.
In the past, marrying a US citizen was often seen as a straightforward way to obtain a Green Card. The process typically involved submitting an application, providing documentation, and attending an interview with immigration officials. However, the Trump administration’s increased scrutiny of marriage-based Green Card applications has made the process much more challenging.
According to Bernstein, immigration officials are now looking for evidence that a marriage is genuine and not just a means to obtain a Green Card. This includes assessing whether the couple lives together, shares financial resources, and has a genuine relationship. Couples who are unable to demonstrate this may find their application rejected.
This new approach has significant implications for couples who are in long-distance relationships or who are unable to live together due to work or other commitments. For example, a couple who are married but live in different countries due to work or education commitments may find it difficult to demonstrate that their marriage is genuine. Similarly, couples who are married but do not share financial resources or have separate living arrangements may also be at risk of rejection.
The increased scrutiny of marriage-based Green Card applications is part of a broader effort by the Trump administration to crack down on immigration. The administration has implemented a range of policies aimed at reducing the number of immigrants entering the country, including stricter border controls, increased deportations, and more stringent application processes.
For immigrants who are seeking to obtain a Green Card through marriage, the news is concerning. Many have invested significant time, money, and emotional energy into the process, only to find that their application is rejected. Others may be forced to wait for extended periods of time, unsure of whether their application will be approved.
So, what can immigrants do to increase their chances of obtaining a Green Card through marriage? According to Bernstein, it is essential to demonstrate that the marriage is genuine and not just a means to obtain a Green Card. This includes providing evidence of a shared life, such as joint bank accounts, shared living arrangements, and regular communication.
Immigrants should also be prepared to provide detailed documentation of their relationship, including photographs, correspondence, and witness statements. It is also essential to be honest and transparent throughout the application process, as any discrepancies or inconsistencies can lead to rejection.
In conclusion, marrying a US citizen no longer guarantees a Green Card. The Trump administration’s increased scrutiny of marriage-based Green Card applications means that couples must be able to demonstrate that their marriage is genuine and not just a means to obtain a Green Card. Immigrants who are seeking to obtain a Green Card through marriage must be prepared to provide detailed documentation and evidence of their relationship, and be honest and transparent throughout the application process.
As the US immigration landscape continues to evolve, it is essential for immigrants to stay informed and up-to-date on the latest developments. Whether you are seeking to obtain a Green Card through marriage or other means, it is crucial to understand the process and what is required to succeed.
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