Brought in legally as child. Visa never renewed

[000 0]

I'm not sure if this is the right place to post this. If not, sorry.

General question.... Someone is brought here legally as a baby. Later, their parents do not follow up with necessary renewal paperwork. The child is now 18. Anything the child can do to become legal again?

Thanks!

[Kathryn41 3,205]

moved to general immigration forum as you are more likely to get answers here

[Otto 83]

General question.... Someone is brought here legally as a baby. Later, their parents do not follow up with necessary renewal paperwork. The child is now 18. Anything the child can do to become legal again?

The likely answer is "No."

Explain 'broght here legally'...

[000 0]

From my "best" understanding. Came to US, (don't know which visa was used) when time for renewal came, nothing was done. The child has lived in US for 17 1/2 years of their 18 years. They consider themselves American. They are trying to find out what their options are, since their parents failed to follow through.

Wish I had more info... but, this is all I know. :unsure:

[canadian_wife 1,791]

There is something called "cancellation of removal" that you may be eligible for but it is certainly something a good, qualified immigration lawyer will need to confirm that you qualify for and help with the application. The trick to this is that the beneficiary must show that removal from the US will cause an extremely unusual hardship to the alien’s spouse, parent, or child, who is a citizen of the United States or an alien lawfully admitted for permanent residence

Again, I am not sure how it works or even if you are elgibile for it but I do know it is extremely difficult to get even if qualified.

You should consult an immigration attorney to find out what your options if you do not qualify for Cancellation of Removal.

[000 0]

Thanks for the help!

Have a blessed day!

[Brother Hesekiel 2,235]

Jim is the man to answer this in detail, but if the child entered legally and can prove this and hasn't left the US since 1997, AOS is possible. Since a minor had no chance to take care of his own immigration issues, now, as an adult, is the first chance to do this which just opened the door. I am optimistic.

[000 0]

Jim is the man to answer this in detail, but if the child entered legally and can prove this and hasn't left the US since 1997, AOS is possible. Since a minor had no chance to take care of his own immigration issues, now, as an adult, is the first chance to do this which just opened the door. I am optimistic.

Thanks Bob! I appreciate it! :yes:

Edited August 11, 2009 by Manuel y Kathy