US charges 11 in alleged marriage fraud scheme to secure green cards for Chinese nationals

WASHINGTON, United States — WASHINGTON — The U.S. Department of Justice announced charges against 11 people in connection with a marriage fraud network designed to help Chinese nationals obtain green cards. Prosecutors said the investigation uncovered a large-scale fake marriage scheme involving Chinese and American individuals that ran from 2016 to 2026. According to the department, more than 1,000 people participated in the arrangement, with payments of up to $100,000 per person. The suspects were taken into custody on August 12 and appeared before a judge. The U.S. Attorney's Office for the Southern District of New York filed charges including immigration fraud and assisting aliens to remain in the United States illegally. If convicted on both counts, each defendant faces up to 15 years in prison. A green card is the official U.S. document granting lawful permanent residence and the right to work in the country for non-citizens. Further details on the case were not immediately available.