Navigating International Marriage: Essential Visa Insights for RPM International Employees

Healthcare Provider Update: Healthcare Provider for RPM International RPM International, a company specializing in industrial coatings and sealants, typically offers healthcare plans through major insurers. Employees of RPM International can expect to receive health benefits from providers such as UnitedHealthcare, Aetna, or Cigna, depending on the specific plan choices made available by the company. Healthcare Cost Increases in 2026 As we approach 2026, RPM International employees should brace for a significant rise in healthcare costs. Premiums for Affordable Care Act (ACA) marketplace plans are anticipated to increase sharply, with some states reporting hikes exceeding 60%. A decrease in federal premium subsidies and the continuous rise in medical care costs-including skyrocketing medication prices-are substantial contributing factors. Employees are advised to evaluate employer-sponsored plans alongside marketplace options early to mitigate financial impacts, as many may face increased out-of-pocket expenses that could affect their budget significantly. Click here to learn more

Marriage transcends geographical boundaries, and when it involves a partner from another country, the complexities of immigration law come into play. This study, conducted in collaboration with immigration attorney  Julia Funke, Esq. , provides an in-depth analysis of visa options for non-American citizens and strategic use of marriage agreements. RPM International employees, especially those engaged with partners of different nationalities, should be aware of these rule and regulations when planning for their financial future.

Identifying Visa Options

RPM International employees considering bringing a non-American citizen to the United States, selecting the right visa is crucial. It’s a misconception that the K-1 visa, prominently featured on the reality TV show '90-Day Fiancé,' is the only option. There are three essential types of visas, each suited to different circumstances:

1. K-1 Visa (Fiancé Visa): Allows a non-American fiancé to enter the United States on the condition that the marriage occurs within 90 days. As of November 2023, the processing time for an I-129F application, necessary to obtain this visa, is about 12.5 months. Further documentation is required afterward to secure a green card, which can extend the entire process by an additional year.

2. CR-1 Visa (Spouse of a U.S. Citizen): For marriages under two years, the CR-1 visa issues a conditional green card valid for two years. Couples must file an I-751 form before this period ends to prove the validity of the marriage and obtain a ten-year green card. This visa allows the foreign spouse to adjust their status within the United States if they already hold another visa or undergo consular processing abroad.

3. IR-1 Visa (Immediate Relative Spouse Visa): Suitable for couples married for more than two years, offering a ten-year unconditional green card. This option simplifies the process by eliminating the need for later verifications.

RPM International employees should be aware of the complexity of these options as they highlight the importance of consulting an experienced immigration lawyer to effectively navigate the legal nuances.

The Role of the Affidavit of Support

A critical yet often overlooked document in the immigration process is the Affidavit of Support. This contract between the American citizen and the government stipulates that the American will provide financial support to the non-American spouse until they both become U.S. citizens or complete 40 quarters of work (10 years). This commitment remains valid even in the event of a divorce, unless the spouse gains citizenship, completes the required work quarters, or finds another sponsor.

Strategic Management of Prenuptial Agreements

Prenuptial agreements play a crucial role in managing the financial responsibilities outlined in the  Affidavit of Support . These agreements can:

Featured Video

Articles you may find interesting:

1. Limit financial obligations to those stated in the Affidavit of Support in the event of a divorce.

2. Set a deadline for the immigrant spouse to begin the citizenship process, thus reducing the risk of indefinite financial liability.

3. Align expectations and facilitate clear communication about financial responsibilities and procedures, which is essential to prevent conflicts.

In conclusion, marrying a non-American involves not only romantic commitments but also significant legal and financial considerations. RPM International employees should understand the different visa pathways and the implications of the Affidavit of Support, as well as the strategic use of marriage agreements, so they can more effectively address these challenges. It's crucial to grasp these elements to ensure a smooth transition and a stable future for bi-national couples looking to build their lives in the United States.

For RPM International employees considering the long-term financial well-being of their adult children, especially those engaged with partners of different nationalities, a marriage agreement is an essential risk management tool. Recent studies, such as a 2023 survey by the  American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers , show an increasing trend in using prenuptial agreements to preserve pre-existing family legacies and assets in international marriages. This legal protection helps safeguard the financial foundations established by previous generations, reducing potential legal disputes and ensuring family legacies across international borders.