Senator Clinton and the community leaders stressed the importance of informing people of the April 30 deadline so that those who are eligible can take the steps necessary to petition for legal status. It is imperative that we call attention to the LIFE Act and inform communities affected by this legislation that they may be able to stay in the United States legally, but they must contact the INS by April 30. The provision allows certain eligible foreign nationals to become permanent residents without leaving the United States. Without this provision, aliens without permanent resident status would be forced to return to their home countries to petition for legal immigrant status, and would be barred from returning the U.S. for 3-10 years.
Eligibility is based on sponsorships by family members or an employer.