Penalty to Spouse

[Darthavner]

What is the penalty to the spouse if a beneficiary applying for a Green Card is caught working prior to having a permit?

Even though I can afford to support her, my fiance is not willing to wait the three months, or whatever it takes, for a work permit. It's the most important thing in the world to her. Unfortunately, more important than our relationship (that's a whole 'nother story, and call me crazy or whatever, but I have feelings for her and want to give this a shot). If she works, and I know about it, and she gets caught, what will happen? Will she be deported immediately? Will I be in legal trouble? What if she says she never worked at her interview down the road? If she admits to working, her employer who gave her the opportunity could get in trouble. If she lies then, what is the penalty? To her? To me? What kind of trouble could I be in if she lies on her application that I sign and at her interview?

[angelica]

No, there is no penalty to you. You will not get in trouble. If you are a citizen, her working illegally does not affect her AOS. She needs to answer honestly any questions about her work and that she worked illegally; lying has very bad consequences.

[Darthavner]

But admitting it throws my friend under the bus, who was nice enough to stick her neck out for us and give my fiance an under the table job, knowing she was taking a risk.

[Libra_14]

If your friend is also a US citizen, then it won't be a problem either.