Constantinos G. Fountas Immigration Law Blog on Lawyers.com

Is Marriage Really a Path to Citizenship?

Monday, May 17, 2010 by Constantinos G. Fountas

Marriage is not a path to U.S. citizenship in every case, but for some people marriage does make citizenship possible.

Immigration laws in Las Vegas and across the United States present stiff or very specific visa requirements for visas that are not family based. Employment based visas provide selective and limited opportunities that rely on higher levels of education or work experience, especially in fields where U.S. workers are not able to compete for available jobs. The arts, science, sports, universities, medicine, and business are often areas where such skills provide visa opportunity.

Foreigners with substantial amounts of money to invest in U.S. businesses may obtain immigrant visas, which can later be adjusted to permanent status. However, the average person usually does not qualify for such types of visas. Marrying a U.S. citizen or green card holder through a bona fide marriage opens the door to living and working in the United States where employment visas may not.

Citizenship through marriage can take a while

The path to citizenship through marriage is not overnight and can be a long road. Marriage to a permanent resident may require several years before the spouse can acquire a green card, allowing him or her to work in the United States. Married spouses must go through the same naturalization process to apply for citizenship in Las Vegas as other green card holders, including passing the citizenship test.

When marriage is not a path to citizenship

Marriage is not a path to citizenship for individuals with U.S. or foreign criminal records that bar them from entry, permanent residency, or citizenship. Immigrants illegally here in the United States also have a problem with acquiring citizenship. Depending on how long their U.S. illegal residence has lasted, they may face deportation and a 10-year wait before being allowed to re-enter the United States once deported.

The best path for immigrants seeking citizenship in Las Vegas is to obtain legal help from a skilled Las Vegas immigration lawyer. You have a better chance to eliminate unwanted and unexpected surprises that thwart your goals.

Fountas & Associates
3340 Pepper Lane, Suite 103
Las Vegas, NV 89120

Posted at 09:39 AM

Topic: Immigration