IMBRA Disclosure

What Is the International Marriage Broker Regulation Act?

The International Marriage Broker Regulation Act (IMBRA) is a United States federal law enacted on January 6, 2006, when President George W. Bush signed it as part of the Violence Against Women Act. IMBRA was specifically designed to protect international brides who may be unfamiliar with U.S. laws, language, and customs when entering marriage arrangements with American citizens.

Congress enacted IMBRA in response to documented concerns raised by women's advocacy groups, particularly the Tahirih Justice Center, regarding the vulnerability of mail-order brides to domestic violence. Federal courts have specifically found that "levels of domestic violence against immigrant women are much higher than among the U.S. population," underscoring the importance of these protective measures.

IMBRA Requirements for Marriage Brokers

International Marriage Brokers (IMBs) operating within the United States must comply with specific legal requirements under IMBRA. These regulations ensure transparency and safety throughout the matchmaking process.

Key Compliance Requirements

• Background Disclosure: American men must complete a comprehensive questionnaire disclosing their criminal and marital history before being introduced to international women.
• Sex Offender Registry Check: IMBs must obtain records from the U.S. National Sex Offenders Public Registry for each male client.
• Translation Requirements: All background information, including questionnaire responses and registry records, must be translated into the woman's native language.
• Informed Consent: Women must receive translated documents and provide written consent before any contact information is shared.
• K-1 Visa Limitations: A lifetime limit of two K-1 fiancé(e) visas applies, with waivers required for any additional visa petitions.

Rights and Protections for International Brides

IMBRA establishes fundamental rights designed to empower international brides with the information they need to make informed decisions about potential relationships.

Your Rights Under IMBRA

• Right to Information: You have the right to receive complete background information about any American man before agreeing to communication.
• Right to Translation: All documentation must be provided in your native language at no additional cost to you.
• Right to Consent: Your contact information cannot be shared without your explicit written authorization.
• Right to Privacy: Your personal information is protected under federal regulations.
• Right to Resources: You must receive information about domestic violence resources and legal aid services.

Understanding the K-1 Visa Process

The K-1 fiancé(e) visa is specifically designed for couples in international relationships who wish to marry and establish permanent residence in the United States. Understanding this process is essential for planning your future together.

K-1 Visa Process Overview

1. Petition Filing: The U.S. citizen sponsor files Form I-129F with USCIS.
2. USCIS Processing: Background checks and petition review (approximately 6-9 months).
3. Consular Interview: The international fiancé(e) attends an interview at the U.S. embassy or consulate in their home country.
4. Visa Issuance: Upon approval, the K-1 visa is issued for single entry to the United States.
5. Marriage Requirement: The couple must marry within 90 days of the fiancé(e)'s arrival in the U.S.

The complete K-1 visa process typically takes approximately 12 months and costs around $2,000 in government fees. Couples must demonstrate the authenticity of their relationship, showing that they have met in person within the past two years and have a genuine intention to marry.

Our Commitment to IMBRA Compliance

At SabrTech, we are fully committed to compliance with all IMBRA regulations. While our website serves as an informational resource and review platform rather than an International Marriage Broker, we support and promote the protective principles established by IMBRA.

We encourage all users to:

• Work only with IMBRA-compliant dating platforms and marriage brokers
• Exercise their rights to request background information before establishing relationships
• Report any violations of IMBRA requirements to appropriate authorities
• Seek legal counsel if they have questions about international marriage regulations

For questions about IMBRA compliance or to report concerns, please contact us or consult with a qualified immigration attorney.