Are civil unions recognized in immigration benefits?

No, civil unions are not recognized in immigration benefits in North Carolina. While many countries recognize civil unions, the United States does not recognize same sex marriages nor civil unions when it comes to immigration. This means that civil unions in North Carolina, or any other state, will not be recognized when it comes to the immigration benefits given to married couples. The Defense of Marriage Act (1996) states only marriages between one man and one woman are considered valid in the eyes of the Federal government, and it is this law that governs immigration benefits. Therefore, civil unions, even if they are recognized in certain states, will not have an effect on the rights given to those who are legally married. Despite this issue, many civil union couples across the US have found ways to petition the government in order to get immigration benefits such as permanent residency and/or citizenship to the United States for themselves and their partners. Depending on the case, petitions are often granted if the couple can prove their legal relationship through documents such as insurance records, shared taxes, or affidavits from family and friends.

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