Any individual who knowingly enters into a marriage for the purpose of evading any provision of the immigration laws shall be imprisoned for not more than five years, or fined not more than $250,000 , or both. (I.N.A. Section 275(c).) Punishment can also be meted out under Title 18 of the U.S. Code, at Section 1546.
Can a green card be revoked upon divorce?
The good news is that there is nothing in the law saying that, once you are divorced or your marriage is annulled, your efforts to get a green card are automatically over.
Can you get in trouble for a green card marriage?
That said, the practice of obtaining residency through marriage is illegal in the United States if the marriage itself is fraudulent . A marriage that is solely for purposes of obtaining legal residence is considered a sham, and is a crime in the United States for both participants.
Does immigration investigate marriage?
The USCIS has the discretion to suspect and subsequently investigate a marriage that may bring immigration benefits to analien. If the USCIS has reasons to suspect that the marriage is a “sham marriage”, the USCIS officers have the authority to investigate.
How many years do you have to stay married for a green card?
Even if you were married for over three years , you must continue to be married at the time of naturalization. In fact, you have to remain married up until you actually get your U.S. citizenship, and you have to be living with your spouse three years before filing your N-400 application to qualify on this early basis.
Is it illegal to get married for citizenship?
It is a federal offense to commit marriage fraud, or to “enter into a marriage for the purpose of evading the immigration laws.” This means that a marriage not for love, but for the purpose of obtaining citizenship for one of the spouses, is not legal and may result in one or both parties being punished.
What is considered an illegal marriage?
Illegal marriage is simply marriage that does not conform to the legal restrictions of marriage present in a specific area . If a person is married in an area that allows a certain type of marriage but then moves to or visits an area where that type of marriage is illegal, the rights of that person may not be upheld.
What happens if you marry a US citizen and then divorce?
What Happens When You Divorce a U.S. Citizen Prior to Becoming a U.S. Citizen? The lives of most divorcees change once a marriage ends and the divorce is finalized . ... If, at that time, you are still married, you would become a full permanent resident.
Can you get deported for adultery?
Adultery, for example, is conduct that an officer may base a denial on. ... With respect to adultery, cheating on one's spouse is not only personally reprehensible, but also a rare instance in which moral choices carry immigration ramifications. You certainly won't be deported for it , but you could be denied citizenship.
Does USCIS check your phone?
Put simply, USCIS will look through your social media because it's an easily accessible window into your life which provides additional context to the information you provide in your application.
Does immigration spy on you?
If you're an immigrant, green card holder, or naturalized citizen—or if you have interacted with someone matching that description—the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is monitoring you .
Does immigration check your bank account?
Yes USCIS may verify information about your bank account with bank.
Do immigration officers come to your house?
Immigration officers may not enter your home unless they have a “warrant .” A warrant is a document issued by a court or government agency. ... U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) can issue arrest warrants, but only a court can issue a search warrant. If an officer knocks on your door, do not open it.
Can I lose my citizenship if I divorce?
Divorce Makes Applicants Ineligible to Apply for Citizenship in Three Rather Than Five Years. ... You have to remain married up until you actually get your citizenship, and you have to be living with your spouse three years before filing your citizenship application to qualify for early citizenship.
Can I stay in America if I marry an American?
Once you marry, your spouse can apply for permanent residence and remain in the United States while we process the application. If you choose this method, file a Form I-129F, Petition for Alien Fiancé(e).
How long does it take to get a green card 2020?
In most cases, it takes about two years for a green card to become available, and the entire process takes around three years.
