Legal Question in Immigration Law in Nebraska

marriage in a foreign country

there is a man that i love but have never met. He lives in Gambia, Africa. I just heard that if I go to Africa and marry him that I would go to jail. He is trying to get Visa to come to america and he said the best way is for me to go to Africa and marry him, come home and then send for him. I guess my questions are 1. Is that legal? and 2. Would a marriage performed in Africa be recognized in America.


Asked on 3/17/07, 10:43 am

2 Answers from Attorneys
Kseniya Zavala Law Office of Kseniya Zavala

Re: marriage in a foreign country

Yes, it is legal. Yes, the marriage that is legal in Africa will be recognized in America, unless your fiance is minor, has another wife or marriage is done by proxy. You can go there and get married, or at least see him. If you see him in person and spend some time with him, you then can come back and apply for a fiance visa for him.

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Answered on 3/17/07, 8:23 pm
Neena Bohra Law Offices of Neena Bohra

Re: marriage in a foreign country

There is a meeting requirement by law to be eligible for the fiance visa; it must have occurred within the last 2 years.

I would suggest visting on a tourist visa to meet him and decide if you want to pursue marriage. Then, you can apply for him after you return under the above visa category.

You may email me for an appointment to discuss this in detail.

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Answered on 3/17/07, 11:22 pm


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