I understand that polygamy is not allowed in the USA. However, I am from Oman and I want to bring my two wives to the USA. Initially I have considered EB-5 but I understand immigrant intent is not allowed and I would not be eligible for a green card or citizenship in the future. So, can I apply for an E-2 visa for myself and my first wife will become a derivative, and then we apply for an E-2 visa for my second wife under her own merit so she will also be able to move to the USA as an investor in her own right? In this case, USCIS would remain aware that I have two wives in the USA and that we are all living in the USA with non-immigrant intent. I run my own business and my second wife runs her own business. Can we do this while remaining in the US with non-immigrant intent? And if yes, would we run into any problems about practicing polygamy, as non-immigrant temporary residents living in the US for a few years?
Answers
Daniel A Zeft
Find an EB-5 Visa Lawyer: Immigration AttorneyYou have a very involved situation. You need a consultation appointment with an experienced U.S. immigration attorney.
Michael A Harris, Esq
Find an EB-5 Visa Lawyer: Immigration AttorneyThe legal and immigration status of polygamous families in the United States is indeed complex. Here are a few key points to keep in mind: (1) Polygamy and Immigration Laws. Polygamy is not recognized in the United States and U.S. immigration laws do not accommodate polygamous relationships. Each person can only have one legal spouse. Even though you are from a country where polygamy is legally recognized, U.S. immigration laws only allow one spouse to be recognized as a beneficiary of visa. (2) Practicing Polygamy. Living in the U.S. with more than one wife can potentially lead to legal complications, as the practice of polygamy is illegal in the U.S. I highly recommend scheduling a detailed consultation with an experienced immigration attorney to review your specific circumstances.
Stephen Berman
Find an EB-5 Visa Lawyer: Immigration AttorneyNo, U.S. law would only allow you to bring one spouse as your spouse.
DISCLAIMER: the information found on this website is intended to be general information; it is not legal or financial advice. Specific legal or financial advice can only be given by a licensed professional with full knowledge of all the facts and circumstances of your particular situation. You should seek consultation with legal, immigration, and financial experts prior to participating in the EB-5 program. Posting a question on this website does not create an attorney-client relationship. All questions you post will be available to the public: do not include confidential information in your question.