Can a U.S. citizen in an unmarried relationship sponsor his – or her – partner to become a permanent resident?

Maybe.

After all, not all couples who fall in love officially tie the knot.

Instead, they simply live together. They hold themselves out to friends, family and the community as being married but they never formalize the marriage.

Such relationships, commonly known as common law marriages, though not recognized in most states, can provide a pathway to a green card in some circumstances for an immigrant spouse.

Related Podcasts:

Episode 88: Bigamy, Polygamy, And Immigration Law

Episode 86: Perilous Road To Green Cards Through Second Marriages

Recommended Links For More Information:

How Common Law Marriages Help Win Permanent Residence

Polygamy vs Bigamy: A Battle Over Cultural And Religious Imperalism