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How can I help my boyfriend of 2 1/2 years become a legal resident? He entered the US with a tourist visa in 2001 but has expired since. What can we do?
7 ANSWERS
As long as he entered the US lawfully and can prove that lawful entry, if you are legally married and the marriage is bona fide, you can petition for his permanent residence (green card) on the basis of marriage and he will be able to complete the process within the US.
Answered on Mar 29th, 2012 at 11:09 AM
He would be eligible for a green card if you are a US citizen and get married to him.
Answered on Mar 28th, 2012 at 9:02 PM
Intellectual Property Attorney serving Menlo Park, CA
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Sheppard Mullin
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If you are US citizen, marry him and file I-130 and I-485 so he can receive green card. It's easy.
Answered on Mar 28th, 2012 at 6:00 PM
Immigration & Naturalization Attorney serving Olympia, WA
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Seifert Law Offices PLLC
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If you are a U.S. citizen, you may be able to help him, depending on many things. (Are you going to marry? Why did he come to the U.S.? Has he worked or otherwise violated his visa? Does he have any tickets or criminal convictions? Are you qualified to be a sponsor, etc.) You should both go and see an experienced immigration attorney to discover and discuss your options.
Answered on Mar 28th, 2012 at 6:00 PM
Immigration Law Attorney serving San Francisco, CA
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Richard S. Kolomejec
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You can apply for adjustment of status to permanent residence. In other words, he can apply for his green card once he marries you! This process only takes 3 months and there is no penalty for overstaying : ).
Answered on Mar 28th, 2012 at 5:59 PM
Immigration and Naturalization Attorney serving San Francisco, CA
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The Law Office of Christine Troy
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If you are married and you are a US citizen, you may be able to sponsor him for a green card without him leaving the US or triggering a 10 year bar to reentry. You need to meet with a competent immigration attorney in your area to review his case and to also see how these cases are handled in your jurisdiction.
Answered on Mar 28th, 2012 at 5:56 PM
LCA Audits and Investigations Attorney serving Houston, TX
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Fong Ilagan
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If that is his only violation; if you are a US citizen and marry him, then you can petition for his permanent residence.
Answered on Mar 28th, 2012 at 5:42 PM