Should I marry for green card?
Should I Marry for a Green Card? What You Need to Know Before Making a Big Decision
One of the most common—and sensitive—questions we receive as immigration attorneys is:
“Should I marry for a green card?”
Let’s be real. When people hear this, the immediate reaction is, “Of course I wouldn’t enter a fake marriage.” But you’d be surprised how often we get calls from people seriously considering this route with someone they barely know.
So, let’s unpack this issue honestly and share some hot immigration tips along the way—especially if you’re considering marriage-based immigration to the U.S.
Fake Marriages Can Destroy Your Case—Don’t Risk It
If you’re thinking about marrying someone purely for immigration benefits, you need to stop and reconsider. As an immigration attorney, it’s part of my job to verify the authenticity of a marriage. We don’t accept any fraudulent cases—period.
We’ve heard horror stories: fake tax returns, phony joint documents, and even attorneys getting indicted. If you go down this road and get caught, you could face serious legal consequences, including permanent immigration bars.
Tip: If you’re planning a marriage—even if it’s arranged based on culture or religion—you still need to prove it’s real with strong documentation.
Prove You're Living Like a Real Couple
One of the biggest red flags for USCIS is when couples can’t demonstrate that they live a shared life. That’s why joint financial documents are so important.
Here’s what you can do:
- Open a joint bank account and actually use it (don’t just let it sit there).
- Consider paying bills together using that account.
- If you have a joint credit card, make sure to tie it to your joint account.
The idea is to make it easy for USCIS officers to see you’re financially and emotionally intertwined. Why risk spending $1,760 in government fees just to get denied?
Tip: Even one shared, active financial account can go a long way in proving your relationship is genuine.
Understanding Sponsorship: Resident vs. U.S. Citizen
Here’s a tip most people overlook:
If your spouse is only a permanent resident (not a U.S. citizen), the process is different. Here’s what you need to know:
- A green card holder can sponsor you, but it does not automatically waive unlawful presence.
- If you entered the U.S. with a visa, it’s best for the resident sponsor to apply for citizenship.
Once they become a U.S. citizen, you can adjust your status without leaving the country—if your case is strong.
Keep in mind: you’ll need to refile the I-130 petition if your sponsor changes from resident to citizen.
Tip: Check the Visa Bulletin (F2A category)—if it’s current and you’ve maintained your status, you may be able to file the I-485 adjustment of status together.
Bonus: Why You Should Consult an Immigration Attorney
Let’s face it: Immigration law is complicated. There are at least four key things to verify before even filing:
- Did you enter with a visa?
- Has your sponsor filed as a resident or citizen?
- Is the Visa Bulletin current?
- Have you maintained lawful status?
Most people don’t realize they’ve made a mistake until it’s too late. And fixing it can cost more money and cause longer delays. A trusted immigration attorney can help you navigate the entire process and avoid costly errors.
Final Thoughts: Be Real. Be Prepared.
Marrying for a green card is not just a legal process—it’s a life decision. It must be based on a genuine relationship, not just a shortcut to residency. USCIS is trained to spot fraud, and the consequences of getting caught are serious.
So whether it’s a marriage based on love, culture, or tradition—make sure it’s real, and make sure it’s documented.
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