Does Immigration Accept Marriages Performed Outside United States?

A common question I hear from couples seeking to bring a foreign national fiance to the United States is whether the U.S. accepts marriages performed overseas?  Couples ask this question because they want to know what is the fastest and least expensive way to bring a foreign national fiance into the United States so that they can start their family together.  Many wonder: is it better to marry overseas or obtain a fiance visa and marry in the United States.

Generally speaking, the United States Immigration agency does accept marriages that are performed overseas.    To be valid, however, the marriages must be legally valid in the place where the marriage occurred.  Additionally, they cannot violate public policy in the United States.  For example, the U.S. doesn’t accept polygamist marriages or marriages involving child brides.

Contact the firm if you have a question for a New York fiancee visa lawyer.   It doesn’t matter where in the world you are located – the firm is able to help.

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