Did Melania Trump Work in the US Illegally?

By Michael Niren August 8, 2016 (Updated August 9, 2020) 2 min. read
Melania Trump

As much of the world is now aware, one of Donald Trump’s main campaign targets has been immigrants since the beginning. In particular, he wishes to deport illegal immigrants immediately, which estimates numbers at more than 11 million.

Ironically, recent reports have surfaced that his wife, Melania Trump, potentially worked as a model in the United States without acquiring legal permission.

The Green Card Controversy

When Mrs. Trump met with Harper’s Bazaar for an interview in January 2016, she mentioned that “after a few visas, I applied for a green card and got it in 2001. After the green card, I applied for citizenship. And it was a long process.” However, a report filed by Politico asks difficult questions about a photoshoot that took place in 1995, unearthed by the New York Post.

The photos taken have been submitted as proof that Mrs. Trump didn’t follow legal procedures in terms of having an appropriate visa that would allow her to work in the United States. Increasing the controversy is the fact that the Trump campaign hasn’t referred to that year, instead referring to 1996 as the time that she was legally able to work. As such, questions of her immigrant status during the 1990s have been raised as an ironic counterpoint to Trump’s campaign promises.

Choosing the Right Visa

In terms of work visas, obtaining a green card lets immigrants work and live in the United States on an extended basis, also leading to the potential of citizenship. Other types of work visas, such as TN professional visas, provide specific types of skilled workers with the opportunity to work and live in the U.S. for a specific period of time.

Without a work visa, you are unable to legally find employment in the United States. If you planned to one day return or even live in the United States, being deported due to legal reasons may make it impossible to enter the U.S. again.

Working Legally In The United States

Are you interested in immigrating to the U.S. or moving to Canada? Contact VisaPlace today.

All our cases are handled by competent and experienced immigration professionals who are affiliated with VisaPlace. These professionals consist of lawyers, licensed paralegals and consultants who work for Niren and Associates an award winning immigration firm that adheres to the highest standards of client service.

Click here to book a consultation with an immigration professional or fill out our FREE assessment and we will get back to you within 24 hours.

Ljiljana Pavkov Avatar

Ljiljana Pavkov

I have nothing but praise! The entire team was extremely professional, knowledgeable, and kind, especially Mansi Sanghiv. She patiently explained everything I needed to know and resolved all of my concerns. I felt safe and well taken care of throughout the entire process. I am extremely satisfied with the service and experience, and I wholeheartedly recommend them to anyone looking for quality, dedication, and trust.

Lisanne Cholette Avatar

Lisanne Cholette

Mansi has been helping me navigate through a new chapter in my life. It has been a huge comfort to be able to lean on her knowledge and expertise and I would highly recommend her to anyone!

BERLITA COLLADO Avatar

BERLITA COLLADO

I am so very thankful to the VISAPACE team for making it all come true and possible from my Open Work Permit to my Permanent Residence, you make it all happen .Thank you very much from the bottom of my heart , Thank you for being part of my achievements. Now I am now a Permanent Residence through the effort, power and knowledge of VISAPLACE LEGAL TEAM.
Sending you my best appreciation and thank you.

Berlie Collado

Shahrzad Sh Avatar

Shahrzad Sh

“I truly want to thank Mansi. Her patience and thoughtful advices made a big difference for me. Her recommendations were not only helpful but also gave me clearer insight. Words can’t fully express how grateful I am for her support.”

kevin geoffrey Avatar

kevin geoffrey

Visa place helped me with my daughter’s sponsorship 3 years ago. Last week I contacted them for some clarification on a different matter. It was about an issue which technically was a problem of CIC’s software glitch and had nothing to do with Visa Place.
Yet Reena Sandu was assigned for my case. she helped me with enthusiasm and showed no hesitation despite me being an ex-client from 3 years ago.
I was very happy that even after 3 years of finishing business, Visa Place were respectful of their clients. Special thanks again to Reena for her enthusiasm and support.

Nessie Leigh Ilarde Avatar

Nessie Leigh Ilarde

Thank you very much for helping me get my new visa! I appreciate Ms. Felicita and her colleagues for guiding us through the process making sure that everything is precise. Highly recommend your firm. Thanks again 🙂

parker ellis Avatar

parker ellis

Mansi Sanghvi has been nothing for of remarkable for me. I have been dealing with a visa, immigration issues , and any time I have to call her, she has been there to answer any questions. Has answers to every question and is there to HELP YOU. Truly could not recommend her more.