what logistics / legals should I know about foreign marriages?
I'm an Asian American guy, and I've been dating this gorgeous, blonde Australian gal for over a year now. Marriage is probably a bit far (+2,3? years), but I was just wondering how the whole marrying across borders works? do we get married in the US or Australia? Do we have to get licenses in both?
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Just in a very general way, you can get married in either country. You don't need to marry in both countries because each country recognizes the validity of a marriage in the other.
Things get a bit complicated because your marriage to an Australian gal will give you the right to reside there; her marrying you will give her the right to reside in the US. If each of you petitions for the other, you might each have the right of abode in the other's native country. Of course, the big decision will be- "Which country will you choose to live in?" And that involves considerations only you can evaluate.
If she's physically present in the US, perhaps on a fiancee visa, she'll be allowed to marry you. The fiancee visa devolves into a Legal Permanent Resident status. Once you're married, she can petition the Australian government to grant you permanent residency in Australia as well. I think the only hiccup for you will be to decide which country you want to live in. Each country has its advantages and disadvantages.
Good that you're thinking of this before you make the commitment. You'll be getting better and more professional advice pretty soon. ... Take care!!