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, the dream of building a new life in America is tied to the possibility of obtaining a Green Card, which grants permanent residence and a path to citizenship. One of the most common ways to obtain a Green Card has been 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 scrutinized more closely than ever before. Immigration officials are taking a harder look at whether a marriage is genuine and not just a means to obtain a Green Card. This increased scrutiny is having a significant impact on couples who are applying for a marriage-based Green Card. Bernstein warns that couples who are legally married but live apart are increasingly at risk of rejection.
The shift in approach by immigration officials is a significant departure from the past, when marrying a US citizen was often seen as a straightforward path to obtaining a Green Card. However, the Trump administration has made it clear that it is committed to enforcing immigration laws more strictly and preventing fraud. As a result, couples who are applying for a marriage-based Green Card must be prepared to provide extensive documentation and evidence to prove that their marriage is genuine.
So, what does this mean for immigrants who are hoping to obtain a Green Card through marriage? First and foremost, it is essential to understand that the process is no longer a straightforward one. Couples must be prepared to provide detailed documentation and evidence to support their application, including proof of cohabitation, joint financial accounts, and other evidence of a genuine marriage.
Bernstein advises couples to be prepared to provide a significant amount of documentation, including:
- Proof of cohabitation, such as utility bills and lease agreements
- Joint financial accounts, such as bank statements and tax returns
- Evidence of a genuine marriage, such as photos, emails, and letters
- Testimony from friends and family members who can attest to the legitimacy of the marriage
Couples who are applying for a marriage-based Green Card must also be prepared to undergo an interview with immigration officials. This interview is an opportunity for officials to assess the legitimacy of the marriage and to ask questions about the couple’s relationship. Bernstein advises couples to be honest and transparent during the interview, and to be prepared to provide detailed information about their relationship.
In addition to providing documentation and undergoing an interview, couples must also be aware of the potential risks and pitfalls of the application process. One of the most significant risks is the possibility of rejection. If an application is rejected, the couple may be forced to appeal the decision or to reapply, which can be a lengthy and costly process.
Another risk is the possibility of deportation. If immigration officials determine that a marriage is fraudulent, the non-citizen spouse may be deported and barred from reentering the United States. This is a serious consequence, and one that couples must be aware of before applying for a marriage-based Green Card.
So, what can couples do to increase their chances of success? Bernstein advises couples to seek the advice of an experienced immigration attorney, who can guide them through the application process and help them to prepare for the interview with immigration officials. He also advises couples to be patient and to be prepared for a lengthy and potentially complex process.
In conclusion, marrying a US citizen is no longer a guarantee of obtaining a Green Card. Under the Trump administration, marriage-based Green Card applications are being scrutinized more closely than ever before, and couples must be prepared to provide extensive documentation and evidence to prove that their marriage is genuine. While the process can be complex and challenging, couples who are prepared and who seek the advice of an experienced immigration attorney can increase their chances of success.
For immigrants who are hoping to build a new life in the United States, the news that marrying a US citizen no longer guarantees a Green Card may be disappointing. However, it is essential to understand that the US immigration system is complex and constantly evolving. By staying informed and seeking the advice of experienced professionals, immigrants can navigate the system and achieve their goals.
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