Legal Question in Immigration Law in Florida

An Immigration Question

I've a friend who is now staying with me. He is on a B2 Visa and it expires in Sept of this year (2009). He wants to file for an extension and then start the process of becoming a Perm. Res. Will he be able to do this on his own? He has no Degree from the UK (He is from England and has the European Union Passport) He could set up his own Business as a Tattoo Artist but we don't know the process for that either. Like what Forms he needs to fill out etc.

Would I be able to sponsor him in any of this? We are in a relationship technically and we both have strong feelings. But marriage is out of the question at least for the time being.

Is he only allowed one extension on the current Visa he possesses?

I thank you very much for taking the time out to read this


Asked on 6/20/09, 9:29 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Michael Harris Law Offices of Kravitz and Guerra, P.A.

Re: An Immigration Question

Obtaining permanent residence without a degree is possible, as a "skilled worker." But, the time it will take to obtain a green card under this category of workers is years. While your friend may be able to extend his stay in the U.S., based on what you're stating he won't be able to stay here while his green card petition is pending.

There may be other options available, however. For example, if he obtained student status he could remain here. Traveling as a student with a petition for permanent residence pending is not allowed, however.

You could indeed sponsor him if you have a business where he could be employed. However, if you were to get legally married the employment petition process would become tainted and it would no longer qualify.

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Answered on 6/22/09, 10:56 am


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