Can I Become a Citizen if I am Living in the USA without Legal Status?
As personal injury and immigration lawyers at Cheves Briceno, we often encounter individuals facing the daunting reality of living in the United States without legal status. Whether they entered the country without inspection, overstayed their visas, or lost their legal status due to changing circumstances, the question of whether they can eventually become citizens weighs heavily on their minds. Today, we’ll explore the possibilities and pathways available for those seeking to change their status from undocumented to obtaining lawful permanent residency and, eventually, citizenship.
Does US Immigration Law Prevent me from Becoming a Citizen If I am Living "Undocumented?"
In short, it does not. US immigration law provides avenues for individuals living in the country without legal status to regularize their status.
Here are some options which may exist for you, depending upon your circumstances. Our immigration attorneys at Cheves Briceno can guide you through these options and see which, if any, may apply to your situation.
Family-Based Immigration
One common pathway is through family-based immigration. If a person has a spouse, parent, or child who is a US citizen or lawful permanent resident, they may be eligible to apply for a green card through a process known as adjustment of status. However, eligibility criteria and the process can vary depending on the specific circumstances and relationships involved.
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Employment-Based Immigration
Another potential pathway is through employment-based immigration. Some individuals may qualify for employment-based visas, such as the EB-1, EB-2, or EB-3 visas, based on their skills, education, or work experience. These visas may eventually lead to lawful permanent residency (green card status) and, ultimately, citizenship, ending your time living in the USA without legal status.
Humanitarian Relief Options
Additionally, certain humanitarian relief options may be available to individuals living in the US without legal status. For example, victims of domestic violence or human trafficking may be eligible for special immigration benefits, such as the U visa or the T visa, which can lead to lawful permanent residency and citizenship.
Seek Advice from Top Immigration Lawyers Cheves Briceno to Assess Your Options
It’s important to note that navigating the complexities of US immigration law can be challenging, especially for individuals without legal status. Immigration laws and regulations are constantly evolving, and eligibility criteria may change over time. That’s why seeking guidance from experienced immigration lawyers is crucial to understanding your options and maximizing your chances of success.
We are Committed to Helping You Achieve Your Immigration Goals
At Cheves Briceno, we have a dedicated team of immigration lawyers who are committed to helping individuals achieve their immigration goals, regardless of their current status. Whether you’re seeking to adjust your status after living in the USA without legal status, applying for a visa, or exploring other pathways to lawful residence and citizenship, we can provide personalized guidance and representation every step of the way.
We understand that the prospect of navigating the US immigration system can be overwhelming, especially for those living in the country without legal status. That’s you can contact us for a free consultation about your immigration case. We will assess your case, answer your questions, and provide you with the information and support you need to make informed decisions about your future.
Remember–there are pathways available for individuals to change their status, obtain lawful permanent residency, and eventually become citizens. However, it’s best not to try to go at it by yourself. The complexities of US immigration law requires experienced legal guidance.
For any immigration matter, we encourage you to contact our immigration lawyers at Cheves Briceno for a free consultation. Let us help you on your path to lawful status and citizenship so that you can build a brighter future for yourself and your loved ones.
