I'm 18 & working in a fashion company I've been here for 12 years, is it possible for me to get sponsored by them to start getting my paperwork done for citizenship?
An employer can sponsor someone for immigration status, but the process is expensive and can take many years because the employment based immigrant based visas are backed up. If your employer wants to discuss the process, they should schedule an appointment.
You don't indicate your current status, but if you are living in the US and are out of status, your employer can't petition for you. There may be more details you need to discuss with an attorney.
If you are out of status or entered illegally, you do not qualify for any employment or business visas while in the US, you will have to leave the US and go through consular processing. I assume your employer offers a non-skilled job, if that's the case, there is no such category. You must have at least 2 years of experience with another employer or related education. Even so, the wait time is in excess of 5 years outside US.
Are you in valid non immigrant status? If not, then you would need to qualify for section 245(i) to waive your unlawful employment and your status violation. Consult with an immigration attorney. You will need to know about your parents status and immigration filings.
Yes, you can apply for a green card (not citizenship) through your employment. It does not matter how long you worked for the company. The first steps of the application process must be taken by the employer before you can apply for a green card/immigrant visa. It will take several years before you will be able to apply.You should consult an experienced immigration attorney because your immigration history will determine how difficult it will be for you to be granted a green card in the end.
More information is needed. The challenge is whether you can pay the penalty and get lawful permanent resident status due to a job offer with little experience. This can be a challenge, since you may have to leave the U. S. or wait for years. Many can't. There may be other options, so I strongly recommend an appointment or teleconference with an experienced immigration attorney as soon as possible. Our office can be reached at 312-588-0500. If not, you may create additional problems when you live in the U. S. 'too long after' age 18. You may also complicate your situation by leaving the U. S. or filing. Sincerely, Kevin L. Dixler Attorney at Law The above is general information, not legal advice. This does not create an attorney client relationship.
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