Cain and his team start with a series of questions to file a Form I-130 that, if approved, grants a recipient a permanent resident card (aka a green card). They go back into a client’s history, anticipating USCIS’ questions about the petitioner and the relative (including a spouse). Did you originally come to the country lawfully, perhaps on a work visa or student visa (the latter is how Fernández first arrived from Spain)? Is your current status lawful? (Yes is the best answer, meaning an unexpired visa.) Do you have a criminal record? Have you had previous contact with Customs and Border Patrol? Has the petitioner—the lawful resident—been convicted of a serious crime, such as human trafficking? There’s also the need to persuade USCIS officials the marriage is legitimate. “We submit a body of evidence,” Cain says. “For example, dozens of pictures, showing people in different outfits, with different hair cuts. They might have kids together, or a landlord can write a letter that they live together. We put together everything we can that paints the most complete picture of a relationship.” Javier Fernández and Michael Christensen at the Monterey County Clerk’s office, where they completed their marriage paperwork in February 2025. They are planning a big wedding celebration for 2027. IMMIGRATION 30 THE BEST OF MONTEREY BAY ® WEDDING GUIDE 2026-2027 Rental includes kitchen, ballroom, and studio, as well as full support from our friendly, helpful staff who are dedicated to making your special day a success! Learn more: bit.ly/SeasideRentals Dining Capacity: Soper Community Center - 85 Laguna Grande Hall - 225 Spectacularly Affordable Venues ✦ ✦ ✦ Soper Community Center & Laguna Grande Hall ✦ Receptions ✦ ✦ Quinceañeras ✦ ✦ Babyshowers ✦ ✦ Special Events ✦ 986 Hilby Ave, Seaside 831-899-6800 www.ci.seaside.ca.us city-seaside_1-3s_WG26_kb.indd 1 2/19/26 3:28 PM • Available for Consultation and Coordination • Non Denominational Wedding Officiant • Deputy Marriage Commissioner • Able to issue Confidential Wedding Licenses and notarize requests for certified copies • Personalized Ceremonies, Lovely and Romantic • 30 years experience as a Big Sur specialist Alicia Hahn (831) 917-8406 SURlyhospitality.com aliciahahnbigsur@gmail.com Wedding Officiant Licenses Elopements SurlyHospitality_1-3s_WG2026_kpr.indd 1 2/19/26 11:41 AM
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