If I marry an American during my stay, can I stay?

When it comes to immigration in the United States, the pathways and requirements can be quite specific and detailed. It is important to understand that, although marrying a US citizen may open doors to permanent residency, it does not automatically guarantee the right to remain in the country, especially if entry was made through the Visa Waiver Program (ESTA).

In general, if you entered the United States with an ESTA authorization, your stay is temporary and limited to 90 days for tourism or business purposes. Marrying a US citizen can be considered a legitimate reason to apply for adjustment of status and eventually obtain a green card. However, this process must be initiated while you are still in legal status.

The adjustment of status application can be made, for example, if the marriage occurred before the expiration of the period authorized by the ESTA. Otherwise, leaving or staying in the United States without proper authorization can complicate the process. Additionally, it is crucial to strictly follow immigration laws to avoid any future complications.

The adjustment of status procedure involves several requirements and documentation, and each situation has its particularities. It is also worth noting that there are many offers and marketing campaigns promising quick or guaranteed results, but it is essential to exercise caution and seek help from qualified professionals or official sources to avoid risks of scams and legal problems.

At the end of the day, although marriage may be a path to residency, it implies the need to comply with all legal procedures and requires special care. If you are considering this possibility, seeking updated information and obtaining detailed advice from reliable sources will always be the best way to ensure that all steps comply with the country”s laws.

Victoria Harper

Editor-in-Chief

Meet the author

Leading journalism and editorial content at Visto n’ Visa, Victoria helps make immigration topics clear, trustworthy, and easy to understand. Her focus is on delivering useful, human, and relevant content for people exploring new paths abroad.