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Long Description for The Game of Getting Legal.png

Flowchart titled 'Getting Legal' showing complex, often blocked pathways to U.S. citizenship based on legal entry

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Define American


The Game of Getting Legal
Why you can't just *get in line* for citizenship if you're undocumented 

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  • Do you have a family member who can sponsor you?
    • Yes
  • Did you enter the country lawfully
    • Yes
    • if no: You must leave the country first and wait 10 years to apply for a green card.
  • Is your sponsor a U.S. Citizen who is your parent, spouse, or child?
    • Yes
  • Your family member "may" allow you to apply got a green card, but lots of restrictions apply.

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  • Do you have a family member who can sponsor you?
    • No
  • Do you want to join the military?
    • No
  • Do you have an employer who will sponsor you?
    • Yes
    • if no: You're Screwed-Sorry, there's no pathway to citizenship for you.
  • Did you enter the country lawfully?
    • Yes
    • if no: You're Screwed-Sorry, there's no pathway to citizenship for you.
  • Do you have any type of legal status? (like DACA for example)
    • Yes
    • if no: You're Screwed-Sorry, there's no pathway to citizenship for you.
  • Your employer may be able to sponsor you, but lots of restrictions apply.

Start Here

  • Do you have a family member who can sponsor you?
    • No
  • Do you want to join the military
    • Yes
  • Do you have DACA?
    • Yes
    • If no: Sorry, undocumented immigrants are not allowed to enlist 
  • Do you know a specialized language or are you in a specialized profession?
    • Yes
    • If no: You're Screwed-Sorry, there's no pathway to citizenship for you
  • Great! But Trump essentially ended the MAVNI program, which allowed DACA recipients with special skills to enlist the military.