The United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has issued a stern warning against marriage fraud, calling it a serious crime that undermines the credibility of the country’s immigration system. In a post on social media platform X (formerly Twitter), the federal agency emphasised that entering into a marriage solely to obtain immigration benefits is a federal offense and can lead to arrest, substantial fines and deportation.
“Marriage fraud damages the reliability of our immigration system,” USCIS stated. “Getting married just to receive immigration benefits is a crime & can lead to deportation, arrest, & substantial fines.”
Marriage fraud damages the reliability of our #immigration system. Getting married just to receive immigration benefits is a crime & can lead to deportation, arrest, & substantial fines. Report marriage fraud & abuse in immigration benefit programs: https://t.co/CgbhUTyvPn
— USCIS (@USCIS) March 20, 2025
The agency also urged the public to report suspected cases of marriage fraud and abuse in immigration benefit programs.
What is marriage fraud?
Marriage fraud typically involves a US citizen or lawful permanent resident entering into a sham marriage with a foreign national, often in exchange for money or other benefits, solely to help the non-citizen obtain a green card or legal status. This practice violates both immigration and criminal laws.
There are several forms of marriage fraud, including:
A US citizen marrying a non-citizen in exchange for money or favors.
Both parties knowingly entering into a fake marriage.
One party defrauding the other by pretending to enter a genuine relationship for immigration purposes.
According to USCIS and US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), such fraud can carry serious legal consequences, including up to five years in prison, fines of up to $250,000, and removal from the country.
Additionally, USCIS encourages individuals to report any suspected cases of marriage fraud through its dedicated channels.
Reporting form for public use
To strengthen its enforcement efforts, USCIS has introduced a structured form that allows individuals to submit tips about suspected immigration fraud or abuse anonymously. The form enables users to provide detailed information about individuals or businesses suspected of violating immigration laws.
“You do not have to tell us your name or provide contact information,” the form notes. “However, if we need additional information and have no way to contact you, it may limit our ability to review your tip and take further action.”
The agency encourages tipsters to be as specific as possible when describing the suspected fraud. Details such as names, locations, types of violations, and any supporting evidence can significantly assist authorities in investigating and taking appropriate action.