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 concept in American immigration. 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 than ever before. The primary focus of this increased scrutiny is to assess the genuineness of the marriage in the daily life of the couple.
In the past, marrying a US citizen was often seen as a straightforward route to obtaining a Green Card. The process typically involved the US citizen spouse filing a petition on behalf of their foreign-born partner, followed by an application for a Green Card. However, the Trump administration’s stricter immigration policies have led to a significant shift in the way these applications are evaluated. Immigration officials are now taking a more in-depth look at the marriage to determine whether it is genuine and not solely for the purpose of obtaining a Green Card.
One of the key factors that immigration officials consider when evaluating a marriage-based Green Card application is the level of cohabitation between the couple. Couples who are legally married but live apart are increasingly at risk of rejection. This is because immigration officials view cohabitation as a key indicator of a genuine marriage. If a couple is not living together, it can raise suspicions about the legitimacy of their relationship.
According to Bernstein, immigration officials are looking for evidence that the couple is living together and sharing a life. This can include documentation such as joint bank statements, utility bills, and lease agreements. The officials may also conduct interviews with the couple to assess their knowledge of each other’s daily lives, including details about each other’s families, friends, and personal habits.
The increased scrutiny of marriage-based Green Card applications has significant implications for couples who are navigating the immigration process. It is essential for these couples to be aware of the requirements and to be prepared to provide evidence of their genuine relationship. This can include gathering documentation, preparing for interviews, and being transparent about their relationship.
In addition to the increased scrutiny of marriage-based Green Card applications, the Trump administration has also introduced other measures to restrict immigration. These measures include stricter requirements for visa applications, increased deportations, and a proposed merit-based immigration system. The administration’s goal is to reduce the number of immigrants entering the US and to prioritize those who have skills and education that are deemed valuable to the US economy.
The impact of these measures on immigrants and their families has been significant. Many individuals who were previously eligible for a Green Card are now finding it more difficult to navigate the immigration process. The increased uncertainty and scrutiny have also led to increased anxiety and stress for those who are awaiting a decision on their application.
Despite the challenges, it is still possible for individuals to obtain a Green Card through marriage. However, it is essential to be aware of the requirements and to be prepared to provide evidence of a genuine relationship. Couples should also be prepared for a lengthy and potentially complex process.
In conclusion, marrying a US citizen is no longer a guaranteed pathway to obtaining a Green Card. The Trump administration’s stricter immigration policies have led to increased scrutiny of marriage-based Green Card applications, and couples must be prepared to provide evidence of a genuine relationship. While the process can be challenging, it is still possible for individuals to obtain a Green Card through marriage. It is essential for couples to be aware of the requirements and to seek the advice of an immigration attorney to navigate the complex process.
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