Scared and Stupid

janeyjay

New Member
Hello All,

I have been lurking for quite some time and just got the courage to post. My husband and I have been married since 1992 when he came into the US from Canada. We both had family money at the time so he did not work and we honestly--and yes, stupidly--thought he could stay here since he had a driver's license, a social security card stamped "Not Valid For Employment" and he didn't need to work.

In 1996 I bought a business and we were supported from that business until we had to close it in February of this year after the economy tanked. We have two children born here as well.


I am currently working two jobs six days a week and go to college full time to support our children. My husband, obviously does not work and takes care of the children. He has never been in trouble and obviously wants to be legal. I take full responsibility for being ignorant of the law. I have researched lawyers, but after reading posts about possible scams, etc., I am nervous about trusting a lawyer even. As it stands right now, there is no record of him even being in this country and I am scared if I screw something up, he'll be barred for ten years.


When he came into the US from Canada in 1992, he was not stopped or asked about his stay.

I know we are in big trouble here, but I was wondering if anyone had any recommendations for at least a first step.

Thank you for your time.
 
Hi there.
I could be wrong, but as far as I know, overstays are forgiven through marriage to a US citizen. Im sure others will be along to offer more concrete advise, but providing your husband doesnt leave the country (a ban will take effect from when he leaves the country should he want to return) I think you are able to file papers for your husband's adjustment of status to a 'legal permanent resident'. Hop on over to visajourney.com and there are step by step instructions on how to file for adjustment and what papers you need.
A one off consultation with an immigration attorney will also do no harm and will set your mind at ease.
Good luck
 
Your case is relatively simple and there is nothing to be afraid of. Just in case, your husband should not leave the US until the issue is resolved. Find a good lawyer, here is a list:
http://www.lawyers.com/Immigration/browse-by-location.html
You will need to file I-130 form and I-485 form. You'll pay around $1500 in filing fees and the lawyer may charge 2-3k for this type of case.
 
Thank you both for your kind replies. I will check out both of these links immediately. Thank you again, your kindness to my question is much appreciated!
 
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