New Immigration Policy Affects Same-Sex Diplomatic Couples

California residents might have read that on Oct. 1, the Trump administration put a policy in place that will require unmarried same-sex partners of United Nations workers and foreign diplomats to be married or lose their visas. People have until Dec. 31 to comply. After that date, they will have 30 days in which to leave the country.

According to the United States mission to the U.N., the policy is part of making sure that its international visa regulations are consistent with U.S. law. Same-sex marriage was made legal in the U.S. by the Supreme Court in 2015, so the U.S. is now demanding that same-sex partners who are granted visas must be married as is the case with opposite-sex partners. However, critics of the policy say it could put some people in danger.

Same-sex marriage is criminalized in some countries and is only legal in 12 percent of U.N. member countries. This means that some people could be forced to choose between family separation and leaving a post. Some might face criminal charges when they return to their home countries. The journal Foreign Policy reported that at least 10 U.N. employees are affected by the change, which has been criticized by both the former U.S. ambassador to the United Nations and the deputy United Nations director at Human Rights Watch.

Immigration can be a confusing, complex and fast-changing area of law. Errors in immigration paperwork can lead to significant delays or even denial. Therefore, people who are seeking a visa, naturalization or another immigration status might want to consult an attorney. There could be a number of avenues through which a person might qualify for a visa based on the person’s education, work history, family status and situation in the home country as well as whether the person is already living in the United States.

Client Reviews
★★★★★
"My father was hit by a car when he was cross the road close to a grocery parking lot last year. Although he was not seriously injured but he still spent months in hospital. We needed a lawyer to help to deal with the insurance issues. Luckily we found office of Derek Lim for their professional guidance. Christine handled everything professionally and made the whole process easy for us so we can focus on taking care of my father. We are satisfied with their service and results and highly recommend them to anyone who needs an accident lawyer." Yun J.
★★★★★
"Law office of Derek Lim did an excellent job on settling my personal injury case. I look up their ad online and I called their office about my car accident. Mr. Lim came to my home the next day to obtained all the info. They settled my case promptly. I am very pleased with the settlement and highly recommend Law office of Derek Lim." Janice C.
★★★★★
"We had Derek help dealing with a car accident case. Derek and Christine were very responsive. They handle everything with the insurance company and gave clear guidance on all questions that came up. We were very satisfied with the service we received and we highly recommend Derek and Christine if you need help from a professional law office." Yin Yin W.
★★★★★
"We had 2 car accident cases which both handled by Christine at Derek Lim. They are very professional, I highly recommend that you give them a call, they will handle everything with the insurance company and hassle free." Kris L.
★★★★★
"Hi Mr. Lim, I want to spread the good news to you that my brother has obtained the immigration VISA, see attached. Thank you very much for your great assistance and consistent support along the way." Ada T.