Marrying US Citizen No Longer Guarantees a Green Card: Immigration Attorney
The United States has long been a beacon of hope for immigrants seeking a better life, with many believing that marrying a US citizen is a guaranteed path to obtaining a Green Card. However, according to Brad Bernstein, an American immigration attorney, this is no longer the case. In a recent revelation, Bernstein stated that marriage-based Green Card applications are being scrutinized more closely under the Trump administration, and officials are now assessing whether a marriage is genuine in daily life.
This shift in policy has significant implications for couples who are legally married but live apart, as they are increasingly at risk of rejection. The notion that marrying a US citizen automatically grants a Green Card has been a long-standing assumption, but it appears that those days are behind us. As an immigration attorney, Bernstein’s insights provide valuable information for immigrants seeking to navigate the complex and ever-changing landscape of US immigration law.
In the past, marrying a US citizen was often seen as a straightforward path to obtaining a Green Card. The process typically involved submitting an application, providing documentation, and attending an interview with immigration officials. However, under the current administration, the scrutiny surrounding marriage-based Green Card applications has intensified. Immigration officials are now digging deeper to determine whether a marriage is legitimate, rather than simply rubber-stamping applications.
One of the primary factors being examined is the couple’s living arrangements. Couples who are legally married but live apart are facing increased scrutiny, as officials seek to determine whether the marriage is genuine or merely a means to obtain a Green Card. This has significant implications for couples who, for various reasons, may not be able to live together. For example, couples who are separated due to work or education commitments, or those who are unable to live together due to financial constraints, may find themselves at risk of rejection.
The increased scrutiny surrounding marriage-based Green Card applications is not limited to living arrangements. Immigration officials are also examining other aspects of a couple’s life, including their financial situation, social media activity, and communication records. This increased level of scrutiny has led to a significant increase in the number of applications being rejected, leaving many couples in a state of limbo.
So, what do immigrants need to know about the changing landscape of marriage-based Green Card applications? First and foremost, it is essential to understand that marrying a US citizen is no longer a guarantee of obtaining a Green Card. Couples must be prepared to provide extensive documentation and evidence to support their application, including proof of cohabitation, joint financial accounts, and communication records.
It is also crucial for couples to be aware of the potential risks and challenges associated with living apart. While it may be unavoidable in some cases, couples should be prepared to provide a detailed explanation for their living arrangements and demonstrate that their marriage is genuine, despite physical separation.
In addition to these factors, it is essential for immigrants to seek the advice of a qualified immigration attorney. An experienced attorney can provide valuable guidance and support throughout the application process, helping couples to navigate the complex and often confusing landscape of US immigration law.
In conclusion, the days of marrying a US citizen as a guaranteed path to obtaining a Green Card are behind us. Under the Trump administration, marriage-based Green Card applications are being scrutinized more closely, and officials are assessing whether a marriage is genuine in daily life. Couples who are legally married but live apart are at risk of rejection, and it is essential for immigrants to be aware of the changing landscape of US immigration law.
As the US immigration system continues to evolve, it is crucial for couples to be informed and prepared. By understanding the risks and challenges associated with marriage-based Green Card applications, couples can take the necessary steps to ensure a successful outcome. Whether you are a US citizen or an immigrant seeking to build a life in the United States, it is essential to stay informed and seek the advice of a qualified immigration attorney.
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