As of Monday, Oct. 1 the United States will no longer issue family visas to unmarried same-sex partners. This change will affect foreign diplomats and employees of international organizations.
People working for the United States in organizations such as the United Nations or the World Bank have expressed concern regarding the change. Now, to obtain a diplomatic family visa, proof of marriage must be presented.
This has caused many to wed quickly in order for their partners to accompany them into the United States. However, only 12% of the states within the United Nations allows same-sex marriage. The Department Officials explained legal workarounds could be discussed case-by-case for people coming from nations where same-sex marriage is not authorized.
Same-sex partners who currently have a family visa, must submit proof of marriage by the end of the year in order to qualify for renewal. After 30 days without proof, they will be forced to leave the country.
State Department officials said on Oct. 2, about 105 families foreign representatives and employees were affected. 55 of these families were a part of international organizations.
It was stated in a memo dated Sept. 13, that the State Department has not issued G-4 visas to unmarried heterosexual partners since 2009. However, it is not typically an issue receiving a heterosexual marriage license in foreign countries.
