Because of this provision, it is not uncommon for some foreign nationals to enter into sham marriages to fast-track their entry into the U.S. This is a criminal offense both at the state and federal levels. If you are accused of marriage fraud, it’s in your best interest that you know what you are up against.
Generally, a marriage is deemed fraudulent if it is entered into for the sole purpose of circumventing immigration laws and obtaining a green card. Here are some of the notable characteristics of a sham marriage:
Marriage fraud is a serious violation of immigration laws. Here are the penalties you might face if you are convicted of marrying for a green card:
If you are a foreign national who is convicted of immigration fraud, you might be jailed for up to five years and fined up to $250,000. Additionally, your visa will be revoked paving the way for your removal from the country as soon as you finish your jail time.
Depending on your involvement, you may be fined and jailed. If, for instance, you received cash incentives to enter into the marriage, then you will likely face severe penalties.
Immigration fraud is a serious offense. Find out how you can safeguard your rights and mount a defense if you are accused of marrying for a green card.
]]>If something happens that makes you a target for deportation, you may have defense options to overcome your circumstances. Understanding them and building a strong case can significantly impact the outcome, possibly allowing you to remain in the U.S. with your friends and loved ones.
The United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) system provides various options that may help you prevent deportation. Here are three possible remedies to consider.
1. Asylum. If persecution based on race, religion, nationality, political opinion or membership in a particular group awaits you in your home country, you may qualify for asylum.
2. Adjustment of status. Depending on your circumstances, you may be able to adjust your immigration status to become a permanent resident, preventing deportation.
3. Administrative appeal. You may file a petition with the Board of Immigration Appeals (BIA) to stop removal proceedings or delay them so you can work on your defense.
While this overview highlights general strategies, remember that immigration law is ever-evolving. It is critical to stay informed about changing regulations. The USCIS and immigration advocacy groups consistently publish up-to-date educational resources online to keep you informed.
You may be tempted to navigate this hurdle alone, but deportation is a complex legal matter. Consulting with an experienced immigration representative can provide invaluable guidance. They can assess your situation and recommend a strategy built around your unique circumstances.
]]>We have already discussed some of the documentation that you may need in order to get a green card. It can help to provide proof of your relationship, such as pictures of the two of you or joint bank statements showing that you are sharing your finances. Even just using your mail to demonstrate that you do live together can be beneficial.
But to prevent fraud, the government will also often carry out a green card marriage interview. How will this process likely play out?
The goal of the green card marriage interview, much like looking at your pictures and other documentation, is to show that the marriage is valid. All the government wants to know is that you are legitimately in a relationship. You’re not just pretending to be in a romantic relationship so that the other person can get a green card.
As such, the interviewer may ask you questions about your daily routines and your life together. Where did you meet? What do you do in your free time together? Where do you like to go on dates? Are you thinking about having children in the future? What are your career goals? Do you have any routines together around the house? Who tends to do more of the chores?
These seem like basic questions, and they are. They’re just trying to offer an insight into your life. At the same time, though, this is a very important legal process, so it’s crucial to understand all of your options as you move through it.
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