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 secure a Green Card and eventually become citizens. For years, marrying a US citizen was seen as a straightforward path to obtaining a Green Card, but this is no longer the case. According to Brad Bernstein, an American immigration attorney, marrying a US citizen no longer guarantees a Green Card. In fact, marriage-based Green Card applications are being scrutinized more closely than ever before, particularly under the Trump administration.
The Trump administration has implemented a more rigorous and thorough approach to reviewing marriage-based Green Card applications. Immigration officials are now assessing whether a marriage is genuine in daily life, looking beyond just the legal marriage certificate. This means that couples who are legally married but live apart are increasingly at risk of rejection. The emphasis is on ensuring that the marriage is not just a legal arrangement, but a genuine, committed relationship.
This shift in approach has significant implications for immigrants who are seeking to secure a Green Card through marriage. It is no longer enough to simply be married to a US citizen; couples must be able to demonstrate that their relationship is real and ongoing. This can be a challenging and daunting prospect, particularly for couples who are not familiar with the complexities of the US immigration system.
So, what do immigrants need to know about the new approach to marriage-based Green Card applications? First and foremost, it is essential to understand that the process is now more rigorous and time-consuming than ever before. Couples will need to provide extensive documentation and evidence to support their application, including proof of cohabitation, joint financial accounts, and social integration. This can include everything from utility bills and lease agreements to social media posts and photographs.
In addition to providing documentation, couples will also need to prepare for a rigorous interview process. Immigration officials will be looking for any signs of a sham marriage, and couples will need to be able to demonstrate that their relationship is genuine and committed. This can be a nerve-wracking experience, particularly for couples who are not used to being questioned about their relationship.
It is also important to note that the Trump administration’s approach to immigration is highly unpredictable, and policies can change rapidly. This means that couples who are applying for a Green Card through marriage need to be prepared for delays and setbacks, and should be flexible and adaptable throughout the process.
So, what can couples do to increase their chances of success? First and foremost, it is essential to seek the advice of an experienced immigration attorney. An attorney can help couples navigate the complex and often confusing process of applying for a Green Card through marriage, and can provide valuable guidance and support throughout the process.
In addition to seeking legal advice, couples should also make sure that they are fully prepared for the application process. This includes gathering all necessary documentation and evidence, and being prepared to demonstrate the genuineness of their relationship. Couples should also be aware of the potential risks and challenges associated with the application process, and should be prepared for delays and setbacks.
In conclusion, marrying a US citizen is no longer a guarantee of securing a Green Card. The Trump administration’s approach to immigration has made the process more rigorous and challenging than ever before, and couples will need to be prepared to demonstrate the genuineness of their relationship. By seeking the advice of an experienced immigration attorney and being fully prepared for the application process, couples can increase their chances of success and secure a Green Card.
As the US immigration system continues to evolve and change, it is essential for couples to stay informed and up-to-date on the latest developments and policies. Whether you are already married to a US citizen or are considering marriage as a path to securing a Green Card, it is crucial to understand the complexities and challenges associated with the application process.
In the end, securing a Green Card through marriage requires patience, persistence, and a deep understanding of the US immigration system. While the process may be more challenging than ever before, it is still possible for couples to secure a Green Card and build a new life together in the United States.
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