Can illegals live on US soil while being in the process of obtaining legal citizenship?

[John_And_Elijah]

From what I hear, legally immigrating to the US is very difficult and requires a long wait time. So, can one live on US soil while being in the process of gaining legal citizenship?

[FunkyMonkee]

I'm not sure but, I'd think they could. Get a permit, or whatever, to come here, study for the test (s) you'd have to take, take the tests and pass and, voila, you're a citizen! I think another option is to marry a citizen.

[NaultD]

The process is intentionally broken. So to legally immigrant it takes like a year and you can't work so you are already rich before moving here. Realistically people want to work.

[exitseven]

Yes, they can get a work visa and work towards citizenship. It usually takes a few years. If the have a visa they are not illegal.

[lightbulb27]

yes. various ways.

easiest way... find wife/husband.

[Anonymous]

Yes. There is still a timeframe to complete though. And the paperwork often takes a long time.

[CupcakeTheDestroyer]

Yeah, that’s kinda the point

[slatyb]

It's insanely complicated.