Pretending to be a Common-Law Couple: Legal Consequences

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Many people, some desperate and others looking for a quick way to make money, pretend to be in a de facto relationship that is actually fictitious.

A false civil partnership can be considered a serious violation of the Immigration Law and, in certain cases, constitute legally prosecutable offenses.

The proliferation of unmarried couples of convenience is causing significant harm to genuine couples, as their relationship is called into question and the registration process becomes stricter, even leading to the denial of registration of genuine unions.

It is illegal to fake a stable relationship to help a foreign citizen obtain residency, and when the police, at the request of the immigration office or another entity, discover this fraud, a fine of three thousand euros will be imposed at best.

The national police are aware of this situation and are investigating certain “suspicious” couples to prevent fraud.

It is important to remember that marrying, simulating a similar romantic relationship, or acting as a legal representative for a minor, when these actions are carried out for financial gain (as in the case of the Spanish citizen) or with the purpose of improperly obtaining residency rights, constitutes a serious violation of the Immigration Law.

Furthermore, depending on the case, it could even be considered a crime under the Penal Code.

Picture of Raquel Carmona Flaquer

Raquel Carmona Flaquer

Immigration and Commercial Law Attorney ICAFI 829

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