Can I Fix My Immigration Status If I Entered Without Inspection? (Connecticut Guide 2026)
If you entered the United States without a visa or without being inspected by an immigration officer, you may feel like you have no legal options.
But that is not always true.
Many immigrants in Connecticut who entered without inspection still qualify for certain forms of immigration relief — depending on their situation.
This guide explains when it may be possible to fix your immigration status and what factors matter most.
What Does “Entered Without Inspection” Mean?
Entering without inspection (EWI) means:
Crossing the border without a visa
Not being formally admitted by an immigration officer
Not receiving an I-94 record
This type of entry can limit certain immigration benefits — but it does not automatically eliminate all options.
Can You Adjust Status Inside the U.S.?
In most cases, someone who entered without inspection cannot adjust status inside the United States through a standard family petition.
However, there are important exceptions.
Exception #1: You Qualify Under VAWA
If you were abused by a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident spouse or parent, you may qualify under VAWA.
VAWA allows certain applicants to adjust status even if they entered without inspection.
Exception #2: You Qualify for 245(i)
If a qualifying family petition or labor certification was filed for you (or sometimes for a parent) before April 30, 2001, you may qualify under Section 245(i).
This allows certain individuals to adjust status despite unlawful entry — if eligibility requirements are met.
Exception #3: Parole in Place (Military Families)
If you are the spouse, parent, or child of a U.S. military member (including veterans), you may qualify for Parole in Place.
This can allow you to adjust status inside the United States even if you entered without inspection.
What If You Must Leave the U.S. for Consular Processing?
If you do not qualify for adjustment inside the U.S., you may need to complete your Green Card process through a U.S. consulate abroad.
However, leaving the U.S. after unlawful presence may trigger:
A 3-year bar (if unlawful presence was over 180 days)
A 10-year bar (if unlawful presence was over 1 year)
This is where waivers become critical.
What Is the I-601A Provisional Waiver?
The I-601A provisional waiver allows certain applicants to request forgiveness for unlawful presence before leaving the United States for a consular interview.
To qualify, you must show:
Extreme hardship to a U.S. citizen or permanent resident spouse or parent
Approval of a waiver does not guarantee a visa — but it reduces risk significantly.
Other Possible Options
Depending on your situation, you may qualify for:
Asylum
U Visa (crime victims)
VAWA
Temporary Protected Status (TPS)
Cancellation of Removal (if in immigration court)
Every case is unique.
What Factors Matter Most?
When evaluating whether you can fix your status after entering without inspection, an immigration lawyer will look at:
How and when you entered
How long you have been in the U.S.
Whether you have criminal history
Whether you have U.S. citizen or permanent resident family members
Prior removal orders
Previous immigration applications
One detail can change everything.
Why You Should Not Assume You Have No Options
Many immigrants believe unlawful entry permanently blocks them from legal status.
That is not always true.
Immigration law is complex, and exceptions exist.
If you entered without inspection and are living in Connecticut, speaking with an experienced immigration lawyer can help you understand your risks and possible pathways forward.
