[dgafxxx]

I'm trying to help out a guy I know.

He came from Mexico about 10 years ago, if I had to guess I would think he came over illegally. Anyhow as far as I know he's stayed out of trouble the whole time he's been here. My brother wants to hire him, but doesn't want to until he can obtain a green card.

Can someone obtain a green card easily if they entered the country illegally?

If so what steps does it take, and what's the average amount of time it can take.

I think he has never tried to do it before, because of fear of being deported.

[lawanwadee]

First, he is not qualified for work visas if he entered US without inspection or overstayed the visa.

Second, he may become legal if he marries a US citizen but this is not an easy path. He will have to file a waiver and get an approval in order to adjust his status, plus he will have hard time proving that it's not a sham marriage.

Since 9/11 there are many changes in immigration laws and it's not easy anymore.