The Houston Family Law Blog


Texans Accused of Marriage Fraud

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Many people are probably aware that a quick way to become a legal resident of the United States is to marry a U.S. citizen. This is considered the fast track to becoming eligible for permanent residency in this country. However, participating in such actions are illegal and can lead to severe consequences, as this is marriage fraud.

Associated Press reported that a federal grand jury in Houston recently indicted three Americans and three Cambodian nationals for allegedly being involved in a visa fraud scheme through a "bogus marriage." Three of these people were arrested in the Houston area, another two suspects were arrested in the town of Midland, and the last person was arrested in Pasadena.

The suspects will probably be contacting Texas family law attorneys and criminal defense attorneys, as the six people have all been accused of conspiring to commit marriage fraud in order to evade the U.S immigration laws. One of the six people also faces an additional charge of visa fraud, since that person got married with a fraudulent visa.

What are the exact consequences of marriage fraud? Associated Press states that the conspiracy charge carries a maximum sentence of five years in federal prison and a $250,00 fine. Visa fraud is even more severe, as the crime carries a maximum 10-year prison term and a $250,000 fine. So while getting married in exchange for the green card may seem like the a speedy ticket to U.S residency, it's important to realize that this a crime and is often enforced by federal authorities.

Related Resources:

  • Immigration Fraud: 10 Indicted in Sham Marriage Scheme (FindLaw's Blotter Blog)
  • Sponsoring a FiancĂ© or Spouse for a Green Card (FindLaw)
  • Find a Houston Family Law Attorney (FindLaw)

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