DOMA and Same-sex Marriages

Question details

Does the USCIS recognize same-sex marriages?

ANSWER

A statement issued by Janet Napolitano, Secretary of Homeland Security, appears to clear the way for immigration of same-sex spouses.  She said: "After last week's decision by the Supreme Court holding that Section 3 of the Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA) is unconstitutional, President Obama directed federal departments to ensure the decision and its implication for federal benefits for same-sex legally married couples are implemented swiftly and smoothly.  To that end, effective immediately, I have directed U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to review immigration visa petitions filed on behalf of a same-sex spouse in the same manner as those filed on behalf of an opposite-sex spouse."

Nonimmigrant Visas