Visa rule has Frankfort salutatorian stuck in Mexico

FRANKFORT, Ind. (WISH) - Elizabeth Olivas has lived in the United States since the age of 4. But the 18-year-old was born in Mexico, and now, just days away from her high school graduation, the Frankfort High School salutatorian is stranded in the place she was born.

Immigration law requires that 180 days after turning 18, a person must return to his or her native land to update his or her visa. Olivas returned to Mexico one day after the deadline, and six weeks later she's still fighting to get back home.

Submitting her paperwork late by one day has banned her from the U.S. for three years. 

"This is the first time that I've heard about it. We need to get her home," said neighbor Thomas Ayres.

Her father is a naturalized U.S. citizen. He's been traveling back and forth, trying to do just that.

Olivas is described as a stellar student who carries a 3.9 grade-point average. She's salutatorian of Frankfort High School's Class of 2012.. Her graduation is scheduled for Saturday, and there's still hope she may make it back in time.

Sara Moshe, an Indianapolis attorney hired to represent Olivas said she remains optimistic that the her client will make it back home in time. There is a wavier hearing scheduled for Olivas Thursday in Mexico.

"There are so many government agencies involved, it's hard dealing with the department and to get a person to respond to my request," said Moshe. 

24-Hour News 8 reached out to Olivas' school for comment. They declined to talk on camera, but Principal Steve Edwards did issue a statement.

"We have a large group of seniors that are taking in the last few days of their high school career, so the focus needs to be on them," he said.  

No one answered the door at Olivas' home. We are learning her parents are working in Frankfort trying to get the girl back home. Moshe said her client is living with her grandparents while in Mexico.