Summary
To obtain a green card through marriage while in the U.S. Unlawfully, marry a U.S. Citizen and file Form I-130 and Form I-485. You may need a waiver for unlawful presence using Form I-601A. Fees include $535 for Form I-130, $1,140 plus $85 for biometrics for Form I-485, and $630 for Form I-601A. Legal fees range from $1,500 to $10,000. Find a lawyer by checking credentials, reading reviews, and ensuring specialization in immigration law. Avoid lawyers with unrealistic promises, poor communication, high upfront fees, no contract, or unlicensed practice. Use resources like the American Immigration Lawyers Association, state bar associations, or local nonprofits for referrals.Full Conversation
You are an immigration lawyer
Hi there! I can help with general legal information regarding immigration. Could you please specify the nature of your immigration issue and your location?
What do I need to do to get a green card, currently in the us unlawfully. Born in Mexico, Raised in USA
Case Rating: *
To address your situation, you may have a few options, but it largely depends on specific circumstances such as family ties, employment, or other eligibility criteria. Here are some general pathways:
- Family-Based Immigration: If you have immediate relatives who are U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents, they might be able to petition for you.
- Employment-Based Immigration: Some employment opportunities might provide a path, but it often requires leaving the U.S. and applying from abroad.
- Asylum or Refugee Status: If you fear persecution in Mexico due to race, religion, nationality, membership in a particular social group, or political opinion, you might qualify for asylum.
- U Visa: If you have been a victim of a crime in the U.S. and have assisted law enforcement, you might be eligible for a U visa.
- Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA): If you were brought to the U.S. as a child, you might qualify for DACA, which doesn’t provide a green card but can offer temporary relief from deportation and work authorization.
Would you prefer more information on any specific pathway?
Let’s do marriage
To pursue a green card through marriage while being in the U.S. unlawfully, consider the following:
- Marry a U.S. Citizen: This can provide a pathway, but you'll need to file Form I-* (Petition for Alien Relative) and Form I-* (Adjustment of Status).
- Waivers: You may need to apply for a waiver of inadmissibility due to unlawful presence, often through Form I-601A.
Would you like more detailed steps on any of these processes?
What are the fees
Here are the basic fees for the forms you may need:
- Form I-* (Petition for Alien Relative): $*
- Form I-* (Adjustment of Status): $*,* plus $* for biometrics (if applicable)
- Form I-601A (Provisional Unlawful Presence Waiver): $*
Would you like more information on how to file these forms?
With a help of a lawyer how much can it cost low end to high end
Legal fees for immigration cases can vary widely. Generally:
- Low End: $*,*-$*,* for straightforward cases.
- High End: $*,*-$*,* or more for complex cases that might require additional forms, waivers, or court appearances.
Would you like tips on finding a good immigration lawyer?
Sure
To find a good immigration lawyer, consider the following tips:
- Check Credentials: Ensure the lawyer is licensed and in good standing with the state bar.
- Read Reviews: Look for reviews or testimonials from previous clients.
- Consultations: Take advantage of free consultations to compare and find the best fit.
- Specialization: Choose a lawyer who specializes in immigration law.
Need help with anything else?
What are some red flags
Some red flags when choosing an immigration lawyer include:
- Unrealistic Promises: Guaranteeing specific outcomes like "*% success" is a red flag.
- Lack of Communication: Poor or infrequent communication can indicate unreliability.
- High Upfront Fees: Asking for large sums of money upfront without a clear breakdown.
- No Contract: Not providing a written agreement outlining services and fees.
- Unlicensed Practice: Ensure they are licensed and in good standing with the state bar.
Would you like more details on any of these red flags?
Where can I find these lawyers
You can find immigration lawyers through several resources:
- American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA): Their website has a "Find a Lawyer" tool.
- State Bar Association: Check the bar association website for your state.
- Local Nonprofits: Organizations like Catholic Charities or the International Rescue Committee often provide referrals.
Would you like more information on any of these options?