Greencard through marriage!

[Giant_fan]

I have been following this forum for a while. I entered the US when i was 9 years old in 1992. I am currently attending college and married my girlfriend in June. I was charged for a felony in 2003 but didn't see even see the judge due to noelle prosequi. A lawyer said INS would not hold this against me since i was not convicted. I have been working illegally since 1999 but file for taxes every year and pay them. I have decided to file for permanent residence status. On one of the forms, it asks for i-94 but I believe this didn't exist when i arrived in 1994. Will I have problems with INS? Should I quit my job even though I am needed financially in the household? I could really use some answers.

[visjig]

I have been following this forum for a while. I entered the US when i was 9 years old in 1992. I am currently attending college and married my girlfriend in June. I was charged for a felony in 2003 but didn't see even see the judge due to noelle prosequi. A lawyer said INS would not hold this against me since i was not convicted. I have been working illegally since 1999 but file for taxes every year and pay them. I have decided to file for permanent residence status. On one of the forms, it asks for i-94 but I believe this didn't exist when i arrived in 1994. Will I have problems with INS? Should I quit my job even though I am needed financially in the household? I could really use some answers.

I feel that an immigration lawyer would be able to guide you the right path in your situation.

Good luck.

[butter]

@Giant _fan,

I too think you should see a lawyer in these cirumstances. I personally feel that you should quit your job until you are legal and also the i94 has been around for many many years. I know someone who had to go through USCIS to get a copy of his. It is given to you when you arrive in the U.S and on leaving you ares uppose to give it to the airline agent. This young man came into the U.S @ the age of 10 and misplaced his. He is now 29 but got married to a US citizen about 3 years ago. USCIS charges a fee for this service ( to locate another copy of the i94). He also had a traffic violation ( driving without a current driver's license )and it was not held against him.

I gather that your wife is a U.S citizen. This means that your overstaying is normally forgiven.

All the best and let us know how you fair out.

[Giant_fan]

@ butter,
Do you suggest i use a lawyer because of my case even though it was expunged or i cannot find my i-94? My friend had a case before and he was forgiven. Any help is appreciated.

[butter]

Giant fan,

I would apply for the missing i94 without a lawyer. The cost to replace the i94 is $320.00. Go to /show-form/i-102. The form is there for you to fill out and make the request and of course submitt your check. If you have a lawyer do this for you, he / she will charge for that service. To save money I would do whatever I can for myself. Take a look at the form.

The lawyer part, you and your spouse will have to decide as she is the petitioner. I personally would go without one but its a major decision and some people get nervous when having to deal with all the paperwork and challenges. Did your friend use a lawyer ? Again, its up to you but get the ball rolling and don't waste any more time as you don't want to continue living like this.

Make the internet and all the different forums your friend and research- even if you hire a lawyer. Sometimes they move slow and can give you a run around. Your knowledge will help to keep you on top of them. The knowledge you gain will also help others. All the best and keep us posted. Cheers !