Marrying US Citizen No Longer Guarantees a Green Card: Immigration Attorney
The concept of marrying a US citizen to obtain a Green Card has long been a topic of discussion among immigrants seeking to live and work in the United States. However, according to Brad Bernstein, an American immigration attorney, this is no longer a guaranteed pathway to obtaining a Green Card. Under the Trump administration, marriage-based Green Card applications are being scrutinized more closely, and officials are taking a harder look at whether a marriage is genuine in daily life.
In the past, marrying a US citizen was often seen as a straightforward way to obtain a Green Card, which grants permanent resident status in the United States. However, with the changing immigration landscape, this is no longer the case. Bernstein warns that couples who are legally married but live apart are increasingly at risk of rejection. This means that even if a couple is married, if they do not live together and do not have a genuine relationship, their application for a Green Card may be denied.
The Trump administration has made it clear that it is cracking down on immigration, and this includes marriage-based Green Card applications. The administration has introduced new rules and regulations that make it more difficult for immigrants to obtain a Green Card through marriage. For example, the administration has expanded the definition of “public charge,” which refers to an individual who is likely to become a burden on the US government. This means that immigrants who are deemed to be a public charge may be denied a Green Card, even if they are married to a US citizen.
So, what does this mean for immigrants who are seeking to obtain a Green Card through marriage? First and foremost, it is essential to understand that the process of obtaining a Green Card is complex and time-consuming. It requires a significant amount of paperwork, documentation, and evidence to demonstrate that the marriage is genuine and that the applicant is eligible for a Green Card.
One of the key factors that immigration officials consider when evaluating a marriage-based Green Card application is whether the marriage is bona fide. This means that the marriage must be genuine and not entered into solely for the purpose of obtaining a Green Card. To demonstrate that a marriage is bona fide, couples must provide evidence of their relationship, such as joint bank statements, utility bills, and rental agreements. They must also provide evidence of their daily life together, such as photos, letters, and witness statements.
Another factor that immigration officials consider is whether the applicant is eligible for a Green Card. This includes evaluating the applicant’s background, including their criminal history, employment history, and education. The applicant must also demonstrate that they have the financial resources to support themselves and their spouse, and that they will not become a public charge.
In addition to these factors, immigration officials may also conduct interviews with the couple to assess the genuineness of their marriage. These interviews may be conducted separately or together, and the officials may ask questions about the couple’s relationship, their daily life, and their plans for the future.
So, what can couples do to increase their chances of obtaining a Green Card through marriage? First and foremost, it is essential to ensure that the marriage is genuine and not entered into solely for the purpose of obtaining a Green Card. Couples must also provide thorough documentation and evidence of their relationship, including joint bank statements, utility bills, and rental agreements.
It is also essential to seek the advice of an experienced immigration attorney, such as Brad Bernstein. An immigration attorney can provide guidance on the application process, help couples prepare for interviews, and ensure that their application is complete and accurate.
In conclusion, marrying a US citizen is no longer a guaranteed pathway to obtaining a Green Card. Under the Trump administration, marriage-based Green Card applications are being scrutinized more closely, and officials are taking a harder look at whether a marriage is genuine in daily life. Couples who are legally married but live apart are increasingly at risk of rejection, and it is essential to provide thorough documentation and evidence of their relationship.
To navigate the complex process of obtaining a Green Card through marriage, it is essential to seek the advice of an experienced immigration attorney. With the right guidance and support, couples can increase their chances of obtaining a Green Card and building a life together in the United States.
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