A previously undocumented Staten Island mother can breathe more easily thanks to the military service performed by two of her five children. Imelda Castillo Hernandez was granted a green card and permanent lawful residency status on August 16, 2018, as part of a program that allows the parents of active-duty military personnel to petition for residency. While the green card will provide some protection against immigration officials, Hernandez intends to pursue an application for citizenship to secure her right to remain here to support her children.
A Record of Service to Their Country
Two of Hernandez’s children are currently serving in the U.S. armed forces. Frank Hebreo is a U.S. Marine stationed in Japan. Hernandez’s oldest daughter Keila Nayeli Manchester is a sergeant in the U.S. Army and is currently stationed in Georgia. Manchester assisted her mother in applying for green card status and provided a statement regarding the importance of her mother’s support in making it possible for Manchester to serve in the military.
The Freedom to Travel and Return
Hernandez entered the U.S. in 1991 and has not seen her parents since she was 18 years old. Although she has maintained a spotless criminal record, Hernandez did not attend the boot camp graduation ceremonies of her children because of fears that she might be detained and deported to Mexico. With her green card in hand, however, Hernandez is already planning a trip home to see her family in Mexico for a short visit in December 2018.
An Alternative Pathway to Permanent Residency
Although the program used by Hernandez to obtain a green card has been in effect since 2013, many immigrants may not be aware of this alternative method of obtaining a green card and achieving permanent resident status in the U.S. Working with a qualified New York green card lawyer can provide added help in finding the right pathway to legal residency and citizenship in the United States. Your New York green card lawyer can offer expert assistance in navigating the legal requirements for residency and can provide added peace of mind for undocumented individuals and families, especially in the current political climate.
At Pozo Goldstein, we can provide you with the right solutions for your immigration needs. Our New York green card lawyers have the experience and the expertise you need to stay in the U.S. legally and to pursue citizenship for yourself and your family. Call us today at 212-201-9031. We look forward to the chance to help you resolve your immigration issues quickly and in the most positive way possible.
