The father of my young children came to the U.S. under a J1 visa, from Turkey. Turkey paid for his education here. He has been out of status for 9 years. His mother has hired an attorney to file paperwork to waive the requirement to return for 2 years, and to adjust his status. Attorney is in the U.S. I am not married to him. They were told that he would have a better chance if I were to marry him. I wondered because he is on the birth certificates [3 kids], wouldn't that be sufficient? Also, I was wondering I could still "sponsor" him if not married, as it would be hardship for him to return. He needs to be able to work.