NEW : The change is expected to increase marriage applications from same - sex spouses . Secretary of State John Kerry says all couples now will be treated the same . The policy includes same - sex spouses of Americans and Canadians . The change follows a major Supreme Court ruling on same - sex marriage .
NEW : The change is expected to increase visa applications from same-sex spouses . Secretary of State John Kerry says all couples now will be treated the same . The policy covers same-sex spouses of Americans and foreigners . The change follows a major Supreme Court ruling on same-sex marriage .