The Panic vs. The Policy
A recent post circulated widely online, claiming that marrying a U.S. citizen no longer guarantees permanent residency. It caught fire, especially here in Nigeria, where many still consider marriage one of the easiest ways to relocate to the United States.
As a firm that works directly with clients seeking U.S. visas, we felt the need to step in with clarity.
Let’s be clear: nothing has been officially changed yet. But the way immigration officers evaluate marriage-based green card applications has become more intense, and in some cases, more unforgiving.
What’s Really Going On in U.S. Immigration?
The Trump administration (back in office in 2025) has proposed new immigration restrictions that would place dozens of countries under tighter scrutiny based on perceived national security risks. These are categorized into:
- Red Tier: Full visa suspension
- Orange Tier: Limited access, with restrictions
- Yellow Tier: A warning list, with 60 days to comply
As of today, Nigeria is not on any of these lists. No executive order has been signed banning Nigerians from applying for green cards through marriage or any other legal means.
However, U.S. immigration officials are now applying deeper review processes to marriage-based green card cases. The standard of evidence is higher, and there’s a growing effort to detect and deny fraudulent or weak cases.
So, Can You Still Get a Green Card Through Marriage?
Yes, you can. But here’s what has changed:
- The process is longer, especially if you’re applying from abroad
- The scrutiny is higher, meaning your relationship must be well-documented
- Interviews are tougher, and more cases are being flagged for “further review”
So while marriage remains a valid route, it is no longer a guaranteed shortcut, especially if not properly prepared.
Why You Shouldn’t Rely on Marriage Alone
Too many Nigerians are still building entire relocation plans on the hope of marrying a U.S. citizen. That strategy is now unreliable.
At Michelle Jay Consulting, we’ve seen firsthand how better-prepared applicants, those who explore employment-based or education-based routes face fewer delays, less stress, and stronger outcomes.
If you qualify for employment-based green cards (EB-1, EB-2 NIW), or you’re planning to study in the U.S. with a view to transitioning to work or residency, those paths are often more stable, and fully within your control.
What We Recommend at Michelle Jay Consulting
We don’t just fill forms, we help you think through your long-term migration plan, not just the first step.
Here are the smarter options we’re helping clients explore right now:
- EB Green Cards: For professionals with strong work history or unique skills
- F-1 Student Visa + OPT/H-1B Transition Plans
- Family Sponsorship with Full Legal Prep
- Visitor Visas for Conferences or Short-Term Travel
- Canadian and Australian Pathways with Faster Processing
We walk with you from evaluation to document preparation, visa interview coaching, and post-visa advisory. And if marriage is your path, we help ensure your case is ready and defensible, before you even apply.
Don’t Be Guided by Headlines
What works for others may not work for you. U.S. immigration is still open, but it’s also changing fast. If your strategy isn’t sound, delays, denials, or wasted money will follow.
This is the time to get professional help, not guesswork, not social media tips.