When a U.S. citizen marries a non-citizen, the non-citizen is afforded certain immigration rights and typically does not have to go through the regular immigration process. It is generally much easier to get citizenship in the United States if you marry someone who is already a citizen than it is to otherwise go through the legal process.
Sham marriages to avoid immigration requirements are a common type of immigration fraud. Unfortunately, even legitimate marriages are often heavily scrutinized by the federal government as a result.
If you have been accused of marriage fraud, an immigration attorney at Vinas & Graham, PLLC, can help. They represent clients in all types of federal crimes cases, including immigration matters and marriage fraud.
Types Of Marriage Fraud
Under United States federal laws, entering into a marriage solely to circumvent the immigration system or evade immigration laws is illegal and constitutes marriage fraud. Certain types of marital arrangements and intentions are viewed as marriage fraud.
For example, it is a crime to pay or accept payment in exchange for marriage to a United States citizen to evade U.S. immigration laws. It is also considered marriage fraud when a non-citizen tricks a citizen into believing their marriage is legitimate when the non-citizen’s true intent is to circumvent the immigration process.
Immigration Fraud Investigations And Interviews
If you are the subject of a marital investigation or interview, you will need to show that your marriage is legal and was not entered into for the sole purpose of securing favorable immigration status. Evidence often used to establish the legitimacy of a marriage includes children’s birth certificates, joint property deeds, and joint bank account statements.
Consequences And Charges Related To Immigration Fraud
The penalties for marriage fraud convictions can be severe, including up to five years in prison, $250,000 in fines, and removal from the United States. The consequences are steeper if you are charged with additional crimes, such as conspiracy, visa fraud, harboring an alien, or making false statements.
Marriage Fraud Defenses
An experienced immigration fraud attorney can help you defend fraud allegations. Potential marriage fraud defenses include:
- Your relationship is a legitimate marriage that was not entered into in violation of U.S. immigration laws.
- Your spouse tricked you into a sham marriage to gain U.S. citizenship, but you believed your union was real and valid.
- You met your spouse through an online dating website and decided to get married without the intent to evade immigration laws.
With an immigration fraud attorney advocating for your rights, they will go through all of the facts and provide a valid defense for your case.
Speak With A Houston Immigration Fraud Attorney
Attorneys at Vinas & Graham, PLLC, represent clients who have been accused of immigration fraud and those who are the subject of a marriage fraud investigation. If you are facing immigration charges or an investigation, they can help protect your rights and defend your case.
Call Vinas & Graham at 713-229-9992 or submit a contact form, and they will be in touch with you. See their Facebook page for more information about their law firm and areas of practice.
