If we go to Mexico, & get married; will the USA recognize the marriage ?

Question

We are both: slightly disabled, born US citizens. Ages 48 & 49, trying to find a way around the Medicaid system; that penalises those who get married, and don't just live together. Our payments will go from $162.00 to $617.00 !! :-(

Answer 1

The United States recognizes foreign marriages. Generally speaking, if a marriage is valid where it was performed, it is valid in the United States.

Is there a possiblity that you may lose or suffer a reduction in social security or disability payments if you are legally married? The information you later added to the question clinches it.

I know cases of elderly widows and elderly widowers who live together without getting married because marriage for them would mean a reduction in their monthly social security benefit.

Answer 2

The United States, like most western countries, will generally recognise any marriage performed in another country as long as:

1) the marriage was legal in the country in which it was performed

2) both the bride and groom are over the age of 18

3) the marriage is not polygamous or between members of the same sex

In the United States, laws regarding the legal recognition of marriages are made and enforced by the states, so there isn't a standard, nationwide policy.

However, the federal government sets and enforces immigration policy, so if either you or your wife is not currently eligable to settle in the United States, legal recognition of your marriage and it's implication on your visa status will be determined according to federal, rather than state, law. Specifically, the Department of Immigration and Naturalization (INS).

You can find more information on American immigration poicies at www.ins.gov.

Good luck to you.

Answer 3

yes

Answer 4

yes.... abd as strange as it seems BUT NOT A DIVORCE unless you're a Mexican national