What is the maximum penalty for marriage fraud?

The maximum penalty for marriage fraud is set at up to 5 years and/or a fine of $250,000. This reflects the serious nature of marriage fraud, which involves individuals entering into a marriage for the primary purpose of evading immigration laws or obtaining immigration benefits unlawfully. The law aims to deter such fraudulent practices that undermine the integrity of the immigration system.

In this context, the penalty is structured to address both the criminal aspect and the potential financial repercussions, providing a significant deterrent against engaging in or facilitating marriage fraud. By establishing the fine alongside the prison term, the law underscores the seriousness with which immigration fraud is treated, reflecting societal and legal interests in maintaining the legitimacy of marriage as an institution, especially in the context of immigration policies.

The other options present longer imprisonment terms that do not align with the established penalties under immigration law for marriage fraud, highlighting the specificity and focused nature of the offense within the legal framework.