New policy guidance clarifies that immigrants in the process of securing green cards through marriage could still be deported from the United States, according to the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.

As of Aug. 1, federal agents may begin removal hearings for immigrants who apply to become U.S. residents through a spouse, the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) said.

Authorities said that since a family-based immigrant visa petition does not grant immigration status or relief from removal, they can still move forward with the deportation process while the visa is pending.

This also applies to those seeking green cards through a parent, son or daughter, or sibling, the policy said.

"This guidance will improve USCIS’ capacity to vet qualifying marriages and family

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