Unauthorized employment and Green Card

[misha1970]

Hi everyone.

I'm a long-time reader and a first-time writer

I have a question - I'm applying for an employment-based Green Card. But back in 2003 while being a student I held a job that was... well, unauthorized. As a semi-law-obedient citizen I provided my SSN to the employer and paid all taxes ("there are only two things you cannot escape - death and taxes"). Later I quit that job and just stuck with my studies. Upon graduation I got a job, got my H1B and now I'm planning to get a GC.

Now, here is the question - how would this illegal job will affect my prospects of getting a GC. I know there is a stipulation about 180 days. And ever since quitting that job in 2003, I actually traveled several times back home (eastern europe) and I have received a new stamp in the US embassy without any problems. My last lawful entry to the US was back in 2007. And I haven't had any other illegal jobs ever since. I also didn't have an overstay.

So, if anyone would enlighten me about my chances I would really appreciate it.

thanks a lot,

M.

[nousername]

I'm not an attorney but I don't think you will run into any problem. You should be ok.

Originally Posted by misha1970

Hi everyone.

I'm a long-time reader and a first-time writer

I have a question - I'm applying for an employment-based Green Card. But back in 2003 while being a student I held a job that was... well, unauthorized. As a semi-law-obedient citizen I provided my SSN to the employer and paid all taxes ("there are only two things you cannot escape - death and taxes"). Later I quit that job and just stuck with my studies. Upon graduation I got a job, got my H1B and now I'm planning to get a GC.

Now, here is the question - how would this illegal job will affect my prospects of getting a GC. I know there is a stipulation about 180 days. And ever since quitting that job in 2003, I actually traveled several times back home (eastern europe) and I have received a new stamp in the US embassy without any problems. My last lawful entry to the US was back in 2007. And I haven't had any other illegal jobs ever since. I also didn't have an overstay.

So, if anyone would enlighten me about my chances I would really appreciate it.

thanks a lot,

M.

[hopelessGC]

I don't think you should have any problems.

[swamy]

the chances are good but you do realize you have lied at some point in your visa questionnaire about having worked illegally -no?

[Kodi]

I don't think there's anything for you to worry about. You should be ok.

[misha1970]

Thanks everyone who replied. I really appreciate it. I do have a follow-up question though:

- what should I do when applying for the GC? Should I disclose this employment and if yes, then how? I looked through I-485 form but it doesn't ask any questions about employment? It does have questions about illegal presence, deportation, overstay etc. but that's about it. So how should I go about it? Should I say anything at all? Does "don't ask don't tell" policy apply here? Obviously if they gonna ask I'm going to say it as it is, but should I take an initiative?

Thanks again everyone and I wish you all the best in your immigration endeavors.