US Immigration Through Marriage or EB3 Program – Which Is the Right Choice at This Time?
When pursuing the goal of US immigration, many people often find themselves torn between two popular paths: marriage to a US citizen and the EB3 program. Each method has its own distinct advantages and challenges. However, in the current immigration policy context, the EB3 program is being viewed as a more reasonable choice. This article by Newland USA will analyze both US immigration paths in detail, helping you make an informed decision for your future.
1. Overview of US Immigration Through Marriage
US immigration through marriage has long been considered one of the traditional paths to obtaining a US green card. This process requires a foreign national to legally marry a US citizen or permanent resident, then file an application to change their residency status.
According to USCIS regulations, a person wanting to bring their spouse to live in the US as a permanent resident must be a US citizen or green card holder. This process includes filing Form I-130 (Petition for Alien Relative) and Form I-485 (Application to Adjust Status).
However, USCIS is quietly tightening regulations for marriage-based green cards in 2025 with new forms and more stringent application procedures. This has created additional challenges for those choosing the path of marriage to a US citizen.
1.1. Challenges of Marriage-Based Immigration
One of the biggest obstacles in US immigration through marriage is proving the authenticity of the marriage. Marriages solely for immigration benefits are considered fraud and can lead to serious penalties. USCIS requires extensive evidence such as joint bank accounts, shared lease agreements, and other documents to prove the marriage is genuine.
Additionally, when applying for a US marriage visa, the sponsor (the applicant’s spouse) must demonstrate that the family income is at least 125% of the current poverty level as defined by the US Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) using Form I-864P. This income level is calculated based on the sponsor’s household size, including the sponsor, dependents, household members, and the beneficiary (applicant), creating significant financial pressure.
2. EB3 Program – Superior Choice for US Immigration
The EB3 program is an employment-based immigration program for skilled workers, professionals, or unskilled workers.
2.1. Outstanding Advantages of the EB3 Program
The EB3 program offers many advantages over US immigration through marriage:
1. Transparency and Objectivity: Unlike marriage to a US citizen which depends on personal and emotional factors, the EB3 program is based on objective criteria regarding professional skills and experience.
2. Independence from Personal Relationships: The EB3 program allows workers to immigrate to the US independently, without needing to find and maintain a marriage relationship with a US citizen. This eliminates risks related to marriage fraud or complex legal issues.
3. Stable Employment Opportunities: To qualify for an EB3 visa, you need a job offer from a US employer sponsor. This ensures workers have stable employment immediately upon arriving in the US, creating a solid foundation for their new life.
4. Family Sponsorship: Spouses and unmarried children under 21 can accompany you to the US on EB3 visas, ensuring the entire family can immigrate to the US together.
3. Detailed Comparison Between EB3 Program and Marriage-Based Immigration
3.1. Processing Time
Processing time for the EB3 program typically ranges from 2-7 years depending on the applicant’s country of origin and EB3 category. Meanwhile, US immigration through marriage can be faster (18-24 months) but comes with more risks and stricter requirements.
3.2. Reliability
The EB3 program has higher reliability as it’s based on actual professional competency. In contrast, marriage to a US citizen may face suspicion about authenticity from USCIS, especially in the context of increasingly strict policies.
3.3. Cost
Costs for the EB3 program are mainly legal fees and application fees. Meanwhile, US immigration through marriage may incur various other costs such as financial evidence, interview fees, and costs related to maintaining the marriage.
4. Current Policies
In 2025, US immigration policy has undergone significant changes. According to immigration experts, US immigration through marriage is likely to be most severely affected during the Trump administration. This makes the EB3 program a preferred choice for those wanting to immigrate to the US.
5. Suitable Career Choices for EB3 Program
The EB3 visa, unlike temporary work visas, ultimately allows for obtaining a green card, making it attractive to those wanting long-term settlement in the country. High-demand industries include:
- Healthcare and medical care
- Information technology
- Engineering and manufacturing
- Hotel and restaurant services
- Agriculture and food processing
6. Why EB3 Program Is a Better Choice
The EB3 program is superior to US immigration through marriage for many reasons:
Sustainability: US immigration through the EB3 program is based on personal capability, not dependent on relationships that may change.
Career Development: Workers have opportunities to develop their careers in a professional environment, accumulating valuable experience.
Clear Legal Framework: The EB3 program has a transparent legal process with fewer legal risks compared to marriage to a US citizen.
Expansion Opportunities: After obtaining a green card through the EB3 program, workers can change jobs and have more development opportunities.
7. Notes for Those Wanting to Immigrate to the US
To succeed with the EB3 program, candidates should:
- Enhance Professional Skills: Invest in learning and gaining experience in high-demand fields in the US.
- Research the Labor Market: Study industries that are experiencing labor shortages in the US.
- Work with Reputable Consulting Firms: Collaborate with experienced immigration consulting companies to increase chances of success.
- Prepare Complete Documentation: Ensure you have all degrees, certificates, and proof of professional experience.
8. Conclusion
In the current immigration policy context, the EB3 program is demonstrating superior advantages over US immigration through marriage. With transparency, high reliability, and sustainable development potential, the EB3 program is a reasonable choice for those wanting to immigrate to the US safely and effectively.
Newland USA, with a team of experienced experts and the motto “Stable Settlement – Lifelong Prosperity,” is ready to consult and support in preparing documents and accompany clients throughout the EB3 US immigration process. Contact Newland USA immediately at hotline 0785591988 or email: newsletter@newlandusa.asia for detailed and free consultation.
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