Under 21, illegal and getting married

[socorroliliana]

I would like to know the specific name of the law that allows you to stay in the country and stay unpunished if you're under the age of 21 and if you're marrying an American citizen.

[seniorjudge]

There is no such law.

[socorroliliana]

I May be wrong maybe it isn't a law but, I was told that if you apply for an adjustment of status before you are 21 that you won't be punished for coming into the country illegally, because you are still considered a minor,and that if you entered legally it is much easier to go to the process.I was also told that if you are over 21 you will more likely have to go back to wherever you came from and apply from there,or be sent back and serve a punishment period sentenced by an immigration judge. I really want to know how it works exactly because my boyfriend and I want to be sure of every technicality and provison before we pursue anything. Your help would be greatly appreciated.

[aaron]

You can't adjust your status if you never had status to begin with.

Who is it that is telling you these things? Consider consulting an immigration lawyer.

[socorroliliana]

well my mom did bring me over on a tourist visa I was left here to live with my sister. and the visa expired is that considered a status

[seniorjudge]

Have you talked to an immigration lawyer?

Have you talked to the immigration folks?

[vansocalgirl]

Those laws change all the time.. specially after 9/11.
I had friends in the same situation before, but they were over 21.
In situations like yours, being illegal and getting married, untill a year ago.. what happened was.. your papers would take a longer time (longer than usual )to come back to you. Because they are investigating your process.
The problem you can face is, during the interview ( you know about that, right ?) you re going to have with your husband and immigration , they might ask you why you were illegal.. and then go to another process.
Above all doubts.. you should consult a immigration lawyer, or call the immigration itself. They have 1800 number that answers people questions.. dont worry, they are not tracking you.

[aaron]

well my mom did bring me over on a tourist visa I was left here to live with my sister. and the visa expired is that considered a status

Make up your mind. Did you enter illegally, or did you enter on a tourist visa? Do you have access to your I-94 and the number which was on your I-94 from when you entered as a tourist? If not, what evidence do you have that the entry was lawful?