undocumented/illegal status: Student in the US, possible?

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Have anyone heard of California's AB 540 law? Read about it here FAQ of AB540

Basically undcomented immigrants can go to school with in state tuition as long as they attended a california High school for 3 years and graduated. I know New York has the same law but probably under a different name.

What if you're trying to get an RN degree by steps, like LVN/LPN first then Associate Degree Nursing, then Bachelor's degree, all under the AB 540 law. And if, for example, you finished the LVN or the Associate and wanted to work while going for the BSN, how is it possible to WORK?? The AB 540 doesn't say anything about working student. Can anyone shed some information on this? Thanks in advance.

Specializes in Medical and general practice now LTC.
Hi Suzanne4,

I have looked over many of the threads, pertaining to these immigration issues, offered on this site and have found your name popping up quite often. Thnx for all the useful info. I came across a situation that I think i already know the answer to but if i can bug you or anyone else for a reply, that would be at the very least reassuring.

Here is the situation:

Over stayed a tourist visa from the late 80s. Never left the States, and attended elementary and high school here in California. Went to college under AB 540. Attended nursing school and will graduate in a couple of weeks. Over the age of 21, have a SSN#, but no valid (gov't issued) identification.

Question:

This person cant even do their Live Scan can they? And if they cant do that, then no getting their IP, no sitting for the boards right? Even if an employer is willing to petition them under a H-1, would they even be qualified to be petitioned? Are there any other options to gain employment, sit for the boards, etc?

Thnx to all for your time!

If they have an overstay in visa (which is what you indicate) then they really need to speak to a immigration lawyer who specialises in this because they have big issues and can not be sorted easily. They may have to consider leaving the country because if they get caught they will be looking at a 10 year ban

Hey Suzann

Dont let anyone tell you otherwise, yes you can sit for the boards and yes you can get your license, he only thing you will have a bit of a hard time getting is a JOB but there are JOBS out there and people do work only you have to secrifies a bit on a salary cut cos the agencies they take a chunk out of your salary...but yes you can get it all and you do not need a SSN you only need proof of entrance...Peoples please stop misleading and discouraging others...if i had listened to most of the negetivity here i wouldnt be where i am today ...

Specializes in Medical and general practice now LTC.
Hey Suzann

Dont let anyone tell you otherwise, yes you can sit for the boards and yes you can get your license, he only thing you will have a bit of a hard time getting is a JOB but there are JOBS out there and people do work only you have to secrifies a bit on a salary cut cos the agencies they take a chunk out of your salary...but yes you can get it all and you do not need a SSN you only need proof of entrance...Peoples please stop misleading and discouraging others...if i had listened to most of the negetivity here i wouldnt be where i am today ...

Most states require at some stage proof of SSN. I have seen this written on several BON websites so if you are working illegally then you are at risk of being caught and deported. Is it worth it because you could end up with a life ban if not several years ban.

One thing we will not allow is the encouragement of working illegally in any country

You do need a valid ss# in order to work in the US legally. If you obtain a fake ss# or are working under the table, don't be surprised if immigration sweeps you off to be deported. There are people out there that will not have a problem turning you in as you've done something illegally. Sooner or later it does catch up with you. Good Luck to you all

Hey Suzann

Dont let anyone tell you otherwise, yes you can sit for the boards and yes you can get your license, he only thing you will have a bit of a hard time getting is a JOB but there are JOBS out there and people do work only you have to secrifies a bit on a salary cut cos the agencies they take a chunk out of your salary...but yes you can get it all and you do not need a SSN you only need proof of entrance...Peoples please stop misleading and discouraging others...if i had listened to most of the negetivity here i wouldnt be where i am today ...

My state requires an SSN to be eligible for the NCLEX and licensure, and more and more states are doing this (which I think is a great idea -- I wish it was mandatory across the US). As has already been pointed out, you need to show proof of an SSN and either US citizenship or legal authorization to work in the US in order to be able to work here legally.

It sounds like you are advocating violating US immigration and labor laws -- I hope I'm misinterpreting your post ... :uhoh3:

Im sorry you feel that way, however, many of us arent here to twiggle our thumbs, we all came here for a better life from where we come from and thank goodness, America is accomodating. If i was advocating for a violation of American Laws, The State Board of Nursing from where I am would not have approved it, so who are you to say otherwise. Just like your forefathers came here to invade and take over America from the Natives to make a better life for you and your generations, we are all trying to do the same and GOD bless America for being tolerable enough to give everyone a chance.

To everyone out there who is struggling just like the rest of us and doing the right thing for themselves and their families, never give up on your dreams...keep pushing...some day some how it'll work out.

Good Luck everyone and Thank you America for giving us all a chance and a shot at a better life.

Specializes in Medical and general practice now LTC.

CoolNurses

Noone is saying give up on their dream what we are saying is not to work illegally and if you are be aware of the consequences because it will have an impact

hey i was reading the threads,

And I am actually an AB-540 student. I applied to nursing cool in California, but i wasn't admitted because I did not have a SSN. I had a couple questions, considering you finished nursing school.

If it's not too personal,

-what state did you attend nursing school in?

-you were able to sit through the board exam, without a SSN?

Hey, I am actually an AB-540 student as well. It's so comforting to find someone who has been through the situation i am currently going through.

Although, I think the biggest difference is that you had a SSN to apply to nursing school. I actually applied to nursing school, and I was accepeted but i wasn't admitted to the program because i did not have a SSN.

But I believe there's, a bit of hope for me, and for you to successfully utilize your nursing degree with the deferred action that Obama recently passed.

I have couple questions to ask you.

If you can, i would appreciate if you can reply with a message.

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