Legal Question in Immigration Law in Arizona

i am a student in high school

i am 17 and a senior

i came here when i was 8

and now that am ready to graduate

i cant get a job

and if i want to go to college i have to pay alot more

is there anyway for me to get citizenship before i end my high school career

or anything in that matter?


Asked on 8/24/09, 9:45 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Luba Smal Smal Immigration Law Office

If you came to USA illegally and no one ever petitioned for you or your family, you are not eligibile for US citizenship or permanent residency. Your parents probably brought you to USA from their home country. You have citizenship of that country - your country of birth/citizenship, but not a USA citizenship.

There is no question that you cannot get US citizenhsip at this time, as the first step to US ctizenship should be obtaining of permanent residency/Green Card (which you seem not to be eligible for).

When you turn 18, you will start accruing "unlawful oresence".

Yes, you cannot get a valid SSN or a job because of your unlawful status. You can possibly get a ITIN only (for tax purposes).

As of now, you are present in USA illegally and can be removed/deported if apprehended by ICE.

You and your family should see a qualified immigration attorney (not a "notario"), and discuss your possible legal options.

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Answered on 8/29/09, 10:28 pm


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