A 1996 immigration law imposes bans of up to 10 years on individuals who have been "unlawfully present" in the U.S. for more than a year. Being "unlawfully present" also makes them ineligible for ...

Although there is no provision for such waivers, the request comes as advocates lobby Congress to support a bill sponsored by Rep. Chellie Pingree to shorten the waiting time for work permits.