Cottonwood Heights Same-Sex Immigration Attorney

Supporting LGBTQ+ Couples in Cottonwood Heights, Utah, and Beyond

At Monument Immigration, we proudly offer specialized same-sex immigration services to LGBTQ+ couples and individuals in Cottonwood Heights and across the globe. We recognize the complexities and emotional challenges that accompany the immigration process, and our dedicated team is here to provide compassionate and comprehensive legal support. We are committed to helping you understand your rights and options under the law while safeguarding your interests throughout your immigration journey.

Contact us at (801) 609-3659 to schedule a consultation with our Cottonwood Heights same-sex immigration attorney.

Navigating Same-Sex Immigration in Cottonwood Heights, UT

Monument Immigration is your trusted partner in navigating the immigration process for same-sex couples and individuals in Cottonwood Heights. Our experienced same-sex immigration attorney possesses the knowledge and skills necessary to guide you through the complexities of immigration law. We understand the unique challenges faced by LGBTQ+ individuals and couples and are dedicated to protecting your rights and interests.

Our services include, but are not limited to:

• Same-sex marriage green cards
• Same-sex partner visas
• Family-based immigration
• Adjustment of status
• Employment-based immigration
• Consular processing
• Immigration appeals
• Green card renewals
• Citizenship applications

Reach out to us at (801) 609-3659 or connect with us online to learn more about how our Cottonwood Heights same-sex immigration lawyer can assist you.

Understanding Same-Sex Immigration

Same-sex immigration refers to the process of obtaining a green card or visa for a same-sex spouse or partner. Following the landmark Supreme Court ruling in United States v. Windsor in 2013, the federal government can no longer discriminate against same-sex couples who are legally married. This ruling allows same-sex couples who are married in a state that recognizes their marriage to access immigration benefits.

As of 2021, same-sex couples can obtain immigration benefits if they meet the following criteria:

• The couple is legally married in a jurisdiction that recognizes same-sex marriage.
• The marriage is valid and bona fide (not fraudulent for immigration purposes).
• The U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident spouse is willing to sponsor their same-sex spouse for immigration benefits.

If you have questions about the immigration process as a same-sex couple, our Cottonwood Heights same-sex immigration lawyer is here to help you navigate your options.

Obtaining a Green Card Through Same-Sex Marriage

If you are in a same-sex marriage with a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident, you may qualify for a green card.

To apply, you must meet the following criteria:

• You and your spouse are legally married.
• Your marriage is recognized in Utah.
• Your marriage is recognized by the federal government.
• Your spouse is a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident.

To initiate the process, you will need to file an I-130 Petition for Alien Relative with the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). If approved, you will then file an I-485 Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status, allowing you to become a lawful permanent resident (green card holder).

If you are married to a U.S. citizen, you may be able to file both applications concurrently. However, if your spouse is a lawful permanent resident, you will need to wait for a visa number to become available before filing your I-485 Application.

Given the complexities involved in obtaining a green card through a same-sex marriage, seeking legal guidance from an experienced Cottonwood Heights same-sex immigration lawyer is highly advisable. At Monument Immigration, we are here to help you understand your rights and options.

Securing a Same-Sex Partner Visa

If you are in a committed same-sex relationship but not yet married, you may still be eligible for a visa to enter the United States. The K-1 fiancé(e) visa is a common option for foreign nationals engaged to U.S. citizens, allowing them to enter the U.S. for 90 days to marry. After marriage, the foreign national can apply for a green card through their U.S. citizen spouse.

If you are already married to a U.S. citizen but have not yet obtained your green card, you may qualify for a K-3 non-immigrant visa, which permits you to enter the U.S. for two years while you apply for your green card.

For those in a same-sex relationship who are not married, the B-2 tourist visa may be an option. However, obtaining this visa can be challenging, as consular officers may question your intent to remain in the U.S. permanently.

If you are considering a non-immigrant visa, we strongly recommend consulting with an experienced Cottonwood Heights same-sex immigration lawyer.

Green Cards Through Same-Sex Civil Unions or Domestic Partnerships

If you are in a same-sex civil union or domestic partnership, you may still be eligible for a green card. While the process can be more complex than that for same-sex marriages, many states, including Utah, recognize civil unions and domestic partnerships, granting similar rights to those of married couples.

To qualify for a green card through a same-sex civil union or domestic partnership, you must meet the following criteria:

• You and your partner are in a valid and bona fide civil union or domestic partnership.
• Your civil union or domestic partnership is recognized in Utah.
• Your civil union or domestic partnership is recognized by the federal government.
• Your partner is a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident.

If you meet these requirements, you can apply for a green card through your civil union or domestic partnership. The process is similar to that of obtaining a green card through marriage, involving the filing of an I-130 Petition for Alien Relative and an I-485 Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status.

If you have questions about the immigration process related to civil unions or domestic partnerships, our Cottonwood Heights same-sex immigration attorney is here to provide the guidance you need.

Speak With An Experienced Same-Sex Immigration Attorney in Cottonwood Heights

Navigating the immigration process can be daunting, especially for same-sex couples and individuals. At Monument Immigration, we are dedicated to providing the legal support you need to achieve your immigration goals.

If you have questions or need assistance with same-sex immigration matters in Cottonwood Heights, contact us at (801) 609-3659 to schedule your consultation. Let us help you take the next steps toward securing your future together.