The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has issued a warning regarding fraudulent marriages and asylum fraud. USCIS has urged the public to report suspected cases of fake marriages and asylum scams.
“Help us protect all Americans and safeguard our lawful immigration system. If you suspect marriage or asylum fraud, please report it,” said USCIS.
This appeal comes amid the Trump administration’s ongoing efforts to tighten immigration policies in the United States. Donald Trump, who prioritized immigration reform and border security during his first term (2017–2021), has signaled plans to take even tougher measures to curb illegal immigration since the start of his second term in January 2025.
As part of these efforts, USCIS is targeting activities such as fraudulent marriages and asylum fraud, which are often used as illegal means to obtain U.S. citizenship or permanent residency (green cards).
A fraudulent marriage refers to a union with a U.S. citizen entered into solely for immigration benefits, lacking any genuine romantic or familial basis. Similarly, asylum fraud involves individuals making false claims of persecution or danger in their home countries to seek asylum in the U.S. Both activities are considered serious offenses under U.S. immigration law. Those involved in fake marriages can face up to five years in prison and fines of up to $250,000.
This provision falls under Section 275(c) of the Immigration and Nationality Act, defined in 8 U.S.C. § 1325(c). The law explicitly states: “Any individual who knowingly enters into a marriage to evade immigration laws may face up to five years in prison, a fine of up to $250,000, or both.”
This law was amended by the Immigration Marriage Fraud Amendments Act of 1986, which classified fraudulent marriages as a serious crime and established stringent penalties. Additionally, individuals involved in such activities may face deportation and be barred from future immigration benefits.
In recent years, USCIS has reported a significant increase in fraudulent marriage and asylum fraud cases. Similarly, a large number of false claims have been identified in the asylum process.
These fraudulent activities also affect individuals seeking to enter the U.S. legally. The immigration process has become lengthier and more complex due to such scams, creating challenges for genuine refugees and immigrants.
The Trump administration has recently introduced additional measures to tighten immigration policies. For example, in January 2025, Trump shut down the CBP One mobile app, which had allowed refugees in Mexico to participate in the U.S. asylum process, impacting those seeking legal entry.
He has also implemented new rules to prevent illegal crossings at the southwest border, disqualifying certain individuals from applying for asylum. While these policies are claimed to bring transparency and rigor to the immigration system, critics argue that they overlook humanitarian crises.
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Susan Shrestha
View More PostsSusan Shrestha covers a wide range of topics, from local matters to global affairs.
