Marrying US Citizen No Longer Guarantees a Green Card: Immigration Attorney
For years, marrying a US citizen has been a common path to obtaining a Green Card, a coveted document that 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 revelation, Bernstein stated that marrying an American no longer guarantees a Green Card, as marriage-based Green Card applications are being scrutinized more closely under the Trump administration.
The Trump administration has been known for its strict immigration policies, and it appears that this trend is continuing. Bernstein explained that officials are now assessing whether a marriage is genuine in daily life, rather than just on paper. This means that couples who are legally married but live apart are increasingly at risk of rejection. The scrutiny is not just limited to the couple’s living arrangements, but also their overall relationship and daily interactions.
This new development is likely to affect many immigrants who were relying on marriage to a US citizen as a means to obtain a Green Card. The process of applying for a Green Card through marriage is already complex and time-consuming, involving multiple interviews, background checks, and documentation. However, with the added scrutiny, the process is becoming even more challenging.
So, what does this mean for immigrants who are planning to marry a US citizen or are already in the process of applying for a Green Card through marriage? According to Bernstein, it is essential for couples to demonstrate that their marriage is genuine and not just a means to obtain a Green Card. This can be done by providing evidence of a shared life, such as joint bank accounts, utility bills, and rental agreements.
Couples should also be prepared to answer questions about their relationship, including how they met, their first date, and their daily interactions. It is also crucial for couples to be honest and transparent about their relationship, as any discrepancies or inconsistencies can raise red flags and lead to rejection.
Another important aspect to consider is the concept of “bona fide” marriage. A bona fide marriage is one that is entered into in good faith, with the intention of establishing a life together. To demonstrate a bona fide marriage, couples should be able to provide evidence of a shared life, such as joint tax returns, health insurance, and other benefits.
In addition to providing evidence of a shared life, couples should also be prepared to address any potential issues that may arise during the application process. For example, if the couple has a large age gap or significant cultural differences, they may need to provide additional evidence to demonstrate that their marriage is genuine.
It’s worth noting that the Trump administration’s stricter immigration policies have been a subject of controversy, with many arguing that they are unfair and inhumane. The administration’s focus on enforcing immigration laws has led to an increase in deportations, detentions, and denials of immigration applications.
Despite the challenges, many immigrants are still seeking to obtain a Green Card through marriage. According to the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), over 300,000 marriage-based Green Card applications are filed every year. However, with the added scrutiny, it’s essential for couples to be aware of the potential risks and challenges involved.
In conclusion, marrying a US citizen is no longer a guarantee of 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 demonstrate that their marriage is genuine and bona fide. By providing evidence of a shared life, being honest and transparent about their relationship, and addressing any potential issues, couples can increase their chances of a successful application.
As the immigration landscape continues to evolve, it’s essential for immigrants to stay informed and seek professional advice when navigating the complex process of obtaining a Green Card. Whether you’re planning to marry a US citizen or are already in the process of applying for a Green Card, it’s crucial to understand the risks and challenges involved and to be prepared to demonstrate the genuineness of your marriage.
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