How Does Divorce affect an Alien who Does Not Have Permanent Residence Privileges?
If sponsored by a spouse, who is a U.S. citizen or permanent resident, an alien may obtain permanent resident status through the use of a petition naming the alien as a direct beneficiary. Marriage is the tool by which this is done. However, if the marriage is terminated through divorce or annulment before permanent residence is granted, then the alien will not be eligible for permanent resident status by this affiliation.