I am a Legal permanent resident of the U.S. and I fell in love with a foreigner. She has to go back to her country but wants to stay here wi...

Question

I am a Legal permanent resident of the U.S. and I fell in love with a foreigner. She has to go back to her country but wants to stay here with me nd we are thinking if getting married. If we get Married can she stay here? Also I've been planning to get my citizenship since I have been in the country for 13 years will that help the process of keeping her here?

Answer

She has to abide by the terms of her visa. She cannot stay and fall out of status. Once you become a citizen the processing time will be much shorter. So sooner you become a citizen sooner she can legally immigrate to the US.

Answer

If she overstays her visa, as long as you are a U.S. citizen, she can still adjust status in the United States. Therefore, I would suggest filing for naturalization as soon as possible. Otherwise, she would have to return home, & immigrate through the U.S. Consulate, if you remain a Legal Permanent Resident.

Answer

Hello - please call my law office at (212) 968-8600 or toll-free at (800) 750-1828. Kind regards, RDM