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What is a Legalized Alien? A Comprehensive Guide to Its Definition and Status
Definition & Meaning
Legalized aliens refer to individuals who were previously in the United States unlawfully but became eligible for temporary resident status under the Immigration Reform and Control Act of 1986. To qualify, these individuals must have continuously resided in the U.S. without legal status since January 1, 1982. Legalized aliens must meet specific criteria, including not being subject to exclusion from the U.S. and having entered the country illegally or as temporary visitors before the cut-off date.
Table of content
Legal Use & context
This term is primarily used in immigration law, relating to the process of adjusting status from illegal to legal residency. Legalized aliens may seek to transition from temporary to permanent residency, which involves meeting additional requirements. Users can manage some aspects of this process using legal templates from US Legal Forms, which are drafted by experienced attorneys.
Key legal elements
Real-world examples
Here are a couple of examples of abatement:
Example 1: A person who entered the U.S. illegally in 1980 and has lived continuously in the country since then may apply for legalization under the provisions of the act.
Example 2: An individual who came to the U.S. as a tourist in 1981 and overstayed their visa until 1986 could also qualify for legalization, provided they meet all other criteria. (hypothetical example)
Relevant laws & statutes
The primary statute governing legalized aliens is the Immigration Reform and Control Act of 1986. This act established the criteria for legalization and the process for adjusting status from temporary to permanent residency.
Comparison with related terms
Term
Definition
Legalized Alien
An individual who has obtained legal status after living unlawfully in the U.S.
Permanent Resident
A person who has been granted the right to live permanently in the U.S. after meeting specific criteria.
Temporary Resident
An individual allowed to stay in the U.S. for a limited time under specific conditions.
Common misunderstandings
What to do if this term applies to you
If you believe you qualify as a legalized alien, it's important to gather all necessary documentation, including proof of continuous residence. You can explore US Legal Forms for templates that can assist you in the application process. If your situation is complex, consider seeking help from a qualified immigration attorney.
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