Marrying US Citizen No Longer Guarantees a Green Card: Immigration Attorney
For decades, marrying a US citizen has been a common path to obtaining a Green Card, which grants permanent residence in the United States. However, according to Brad Bernstein, an American immigration attorney, this is no longer the case. In a recent statement, Bernstein revealed that marrying an American no longer guarantees a Green Card, as the Trump administration has increased scrutiny on marriage-based Green Card applications.
Under the Trump administration, immigration officials are taking a closer look at marriage-based Green Card applications to assess whether the marriage is genuine in daily life. This means that couples who are legally married but live apart are at a higher risk of rejection. Bernstein’s statement has sparked concern among immigrants who are considering marrying a US citizen as a means of obtaining a Green Card.
The process of obtaining a Green Card through marriage involves several steps, including filing a petition with US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), attending an interview, and providing documentation to prove the marriage is genuine. However, with the increased scrutiny, couples must now provide more evidence to demonstrate that their marriage is real and not just a means of obtaining a Green Card.
One of the key factors that immigration officials consider when evaluating a marriage-based Green Card application is the couple’s living arrangements. Couples who live together are generally considered to have a stronger case, as it demonstrates that they are committed to building a life together. On the other hand, couples who live apart may be viewed with more skepticism, as it raises questions about the validity of their marriage.
In addition to living arrangements, immigration officials also consider other factors, such as the couple’s financial situation, social media activity, and communication history. Couples who have a joint bank account, share financial responsibilities, and have a strong online presence together may be viewed more favorably. Conversely, couples who have separate bank accounts, do not communicate regularly, and do not have a strong online presence together may be at a higher risk of rejection.
The increased scrutiny on marriage-based Green Card applications has significant implications for immigrants who are considering marrying a US citizen. It means that they must be prepared to provide extensive documentation and evidence to prove that their marriage is genuine. This can be a daunting and time-consuming process, and it may deter some immigrants from pursuing a Green Card through marriage.
Furthermore, the increased scrutiny on marriage-based Green Card applications has also raised concerns about the potential for abuse. Some critics argue that the Trump administration’s policies are designed to discourage immigrants from coming to the US, rather than to prevent abuse. They argue that the increased scrutiny on marriage-based Green Card applications will disproportionately affect genuine couples who are trying to build a life together.
In contrast, proponents of the Trump administration’s policies argue that they are necessary to prevent abuse and ensure that the immigration system is fair and secure. They argue that the increased scrutiny on marriage-based Green Card applications will help to prevent sham marriages, which can be used to exploit the immigration system.
In conclusion, marrying a US citizen is no longer a guaranteed path to obtaining a Green Card. The Trump administration’s increased scrutiny on marriage-based Green Card applications means that couples must be prepared to provide extensive documentation and evidence to prove that their marriage is genuine. Immigrants who are considering marrying a US citizen as a means of obtaining a Green Card must be aware of the risks and challenges involved and seek the advice of an experienced immigration attorney.
As the US immigration system continues to evolve, it is essential for immigrants to stay informed about the latest developments and policies. By understanding the requirements and risks involved in obtaining a Green Card through marriage, immigrants can make informed decisions about their future and avoid potential pitfalls.
About the Author
