When foreign nationals marry United States citizens to obtain a green card, they can face deportation, criminal charges, and revocation of their citizenship status.
If you report marriage fraud, the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) or the United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement Division (ICE) may begin an investigation to determine whether the marriage is fraudulent.
Understanding Marriage Fraud
Before you make a call to USCIS or ICE, it is important to understand what marriage fraud is. Marriage fraud occurs when a United States citizen and a foreign citizen marry to obtain a green card or permanent lawful residence status.
It can happen in a variety of scenarios, including:
- Mail-order marriage arrangements
- A foreign national lying to a U.S. citizen who believed they married for love and that the marriage was valid
- A United States citizen being paid to marry a foreign citizen or marrying them as a favor to help them obtain citizenship or health insurance coverage
The consequences of marriage fraud are often severe. An individual found guilty of committing marriage fraud will face a maximum incarceration term in a federal prison of up to five years and fines not to exceed $250,000. In addition to the previously mentioned penalties, foreign nationals also risk of being deported, having their visas revoked, and having subsequent visa applications denied.
How to Report Marriage Fraud
There are many reasons why you may feel it is necessary to report your suspicions, and there are a few ways you can report your concerns regarding marriage fraud.
For example, suppose a United States citizen married a foreign national they truly loved, only to discover the foreign citizen only entered the marriage for a green card. In that case, they may feel it’s necessary to report their spouse to USCIS or ICE officials.
It is important to note that in a situation like this, if the United States citizen failed to report the discovery that their marriage was fraudulent to USCIS, they could face criminal charges.
Contacting USCIS
If you are ready to report concerns of marriage fraud to USCIS, there are a couple of ways you can do so. First, you can call the USCIS contact center at 1-800-375-5283. They are available Monday through Friday from 5 AM to 5 PM and operate on Pacific standard time.
You can call the contact center or use the USCIS online form to report marriage fraud suspicions. You will not need to provide your contact information if you hope to report marriage fraud anonymously. However, USCIS may be limited in their ability to pursue your case if they can’t ask you follow-up questions or open a more thorough investigation.
By reaching out to the USCIS contact center directly, you could schedule a meeting with a USCIS official so you can protect yourself from potential criminal liability. If you choose to take this route, it may be best to retain a marriage fraud attorney to protect your rights and liberties before the USCIS meeting.
Reporting Marriage Fraud Fast FAQs
The following are FAQs related to marriage fraud.
Was I a Victim of Marriage Fraud?
It is possible you were a victim of marriage fraud if you have reason to believe your spouse only married you to obtain lawful permanent resident status in the United States, but you married them because you loved them.
What is Considered Marriage Fraud?
Marriage fraud constitutes any instance in which a United States citizen and a foreign national marry, with one or both spouses having the intent to obtain a green card and United States lawful permanent resident status.
How Can I Report Marriage Fraud to USCIS?
Reporting marriage fraud can be intimidating, but it is the right thing to do. Before doing so, ensure to take steps to protect yourself from potential criminal charges by retaining an attorney to protect your rights and interests.
When you are ready to report your marriage fraud suspicions to USCIS, you can do so by visiting their website and completing their online tip form or calling 1-800-375-5283 for an appointment with USCIS officials.
Get Help From a Marriage Fraud Attorney Today
If you have additional questions about reporting marriage fraud to USCIS or ICE, or if you were charged with or accused of committing marriage fraud, do not hesitate to contact our firm. The Law Offices of Randall B. Isenberg can fight for you.
Our firm proudly offers spouses facing marriage fraud accusations free consultations. Get yours by completing our secured contact form or calling our office today. You will speak with a compassionate team member informing you of your options and getting your case moving. A marriage fraud attorney from our firm is ready to advocate for you and turn things around.
Call or text (214) 696-9253 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form
