Legal immigration pathways

Most cases fit one of these routes. Which one applies depends on your history, how you entered the country and your family members.

Family

U.S. citizens and permanent residents can petition for certain relatives. If the relative is already in the U.S., they may sometimes apply here (adjustment of status); otherwise they process at a consulate abroad. How someone entered the country matters a great deal.

Employment

There are temporary work visas and employer-sponsored green card paths. Most require a job offer and steps with the Department of Labor.

Humanitarian protection

This includes asylum, TPS, VAWA for survivors of domestic abuse, and U visas for victims of certain crimes. Many have strict deadlines. See asilo.law.

Citizenship

Eligible permanent residents can apply to naturalize on Form N-400. See ciudadania.law.

Waivers

Some people need a waiver for a past issue, such as entry without inspection or unlawful presence, before they can move forward. The standards are strict and fact-specific.