The immigrants that started their case before the dates I’ll mention below, could receive their documents or permanent resident status very soon, according to the Department of State of the United States.  The backlog I am describing, is based in analyzing the granting of green cards since October of 2000, that points to a long waiting period. I’ll analyze in detail the first category, so you may use the same concept in the category that applies to you.

Unmarried Sons and Daughters of Citizens (1): April 22, 2000; 14 years of waiting, because in October of 2000 cases filed before February 1^st were granted. In 6 years they advance only 2.

Mexicans before July 1^st, 1993 have a waiting period of more than 100 years. Because in October of 2000, cases filed before April 15 of 1994 were granted. As you can see, the date of 2000 is closer than of November 2006. Instead of them advancing by six years, the backlog only grew.

Spouses and Underage Children of Permanent Residents (2): September 1^st, 2001. Waiting period: 5 years. Mexicans before December 1, 1999: 8 years.

Unmarried Sons and Daughters of Permanent Residents (2b): February 1, 1997. Waiting period: 20 years. Mexicans before February 22, 1992, waiting period: more than 100 years.

Married Sons and Daughters of Citizens (3): November 15^th, 1998. Waiting period: 24 years. Mexicans, before January 1^st, 1995, waiting period more than 100 years.

Brothers and Sisters of Adult Citizens (4): October 22^nd, 1993. Waiting period: 13 years.

I recommend that you diversify your legalization process with a job offer because still is the quickest way to obtain your residency. Remember that there’s always much more to analyze before formulating a legal strategy.
 

INTERNATIONAL IMMIGRANTS FOUNDATION
33 years, Guiding, Legalizing, and Educating Immigrants since 1973
O.N.G. UNITED NATIONS E.C.O.S.O.C.
IMMIGRANTS BUILDING: 7 W. 44th St., New York, N.Y. 10036

(212) 302-2222 – email: www.InmigrantsFoundacion.com

 

*Edward Juarez Studied sociology, International laws, and specialized in immigration.  In 1973, established the International Immigrants Foundation, a non-profit institution created to educate, help, and defend immigrants. In 1984, he established the American Multicultural Coalition and the International Cultures Celebration, conferences in the United Nations, and the Parade and Festival to promote intercultural relations.  With the goal of emphasizing the contributions of immigrants, Juarez established the “Immigrants Building” in 2003, located at 7 West 44^th Street in Manhattan, NYC, where the Foundation continues developing programs that improve the quality of life for immigrants. Currently, he is am active writer, speaker, immigration columnist in El Diario la Prensa, and host of The Immigrants Voice radio and television programs.