QUESTION
How can I get more help on the naturalization process and becoming legal?
Asked on Jul 01st, 2011 on Immigration - Oregon
More details to this question:
I have an expired visa my parents brought me here when I was 8 yrs old. Our visa B-2 is overstayed and expired. What can I do to become legal in the U.S work, keep going to school etc? I am not planning getting married to a U.S citizen
4 ANSWERS
Immigration and Naturalization Attorney serving San Diego, CA
Partner at
Feldman Feldman & Associates, PC
3 Awards
You cannot become naturalized in most cases until you first become a permanent resident. What status do your parents have? The exception to this is if you can somehow derive citizenship from one or both of your parents. Were any of your grandparents citizens? Since you have overstayed for many years your options are likely limited but I would suggest a paid consultation to go over your qualifications, status, possible sponsors, etc. Take a look at the DREAM Act currently being sponsored in Congress as this may help you if it becomes law.
Answered on Jul 18th, 2011 at 12:14 PM
LCA Audits and Investigations Attorney serving Houston, TX
at
Fong Ilagan
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The only way to get U.S. permanent residence is either (1) family-based, (2) employment-based, (3) political asylum or (4) special laws. You say you are not going to marry a USC, then you will need either your parents to become US citizens or you must have an US citizen child and for that child petition for you when they turn 21 years old. These are the only 2 options as you will need a statutory "waiver" for your immigration violations of overstay, unauthorized employment and unauthorized school attendance. There is no waiver for any employment-based petition and labor certification. I do not believe you would qualify for political asylum and there are only very limited special laws. If you don't qualify through US citizen parents or a US citizen child, then you will not be granted permanent residence.
Answered on Jul 15th, 2011 at 12:08 PM
Immigration and Naturalization Attorney serving San Francisco, CA
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The Law Office of Christine Troy
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Unless you qualify under 245i, the U visa or a similar type of visa, you will have a very difficult time getting a green card in the US. You should get a full consult to determine your options, with a competent immigration attorney.
Answered on Jul 15th, 2011 at 11:50 AM
Personal Injury Attorney serving Portland, OR
at
Idiart Law Group, LLC
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Before you can become a citizen, you will need to become a legal permanent resident. I would like to talk with you more about your situation, as it appears you may be able to apply for adjustment of status here in the United States if you have a qualifying relative (parent, sibling, child).
Answered on Jul 14th, 2011 at 4:03 PM