If you have been present in the United States since January 1, 1972, you may be eligible for the “registry” provisions of US immigration laws which would allow you to obtain lawful permanent residence even if you are illegally in the United States now, or if you initially entered the U.S. illegally. You are eligible to apply for permanent residence if you: (1) Entered the US prior to January 1, 1972; (2) Have continuously resided in the US since entry; (3) Are a person of good moral character; (4) Are neither ineligible for citizenship, except for the requirement of five years of lawful permanent residence, nor inadmissible for participation in terrorist activities, certain criminal or security grounds, or for alien smuggling; and (5) Never participated in Nazi persecutions or genocide.
