Under the law as it is today, you will not be eligible to adjust status (become a permanent resident) on the basis of a marriage to a U.S. citizen. I would, however, suggest formalizing your relationship in marriage: a) after 9 years, your commitment to each other is hard to question; b) if the law changes, being anyone's fiancee will not give you any benefits, regardless of the length of your courtship; most likely, legalization (if it happens) will be granted to spouses and parents of U.S. citizens; c) even under the present law, if your presence in the U.S. comes to the attention of U.S. Immigration & Customs Enforcement, being a long-time fiancee will give you no defense in removal proceedings, while being a spouse of a U.S. citizen might help (and the longer you are married, the stronger it speaks in your favor). Don't let your being "an illegal alien" define your life. If you are lucky enough to find someone with whom you can be together for 9 years, marry that person. It might not give you a green card; but you might have a chance of happy family life.
Answered on Jun 24th, 2013 at 10:34 PM