The answer is: not always.
Many people think that marrying a U.S. citizen in the United States will open the door to a permanent legal resident status to anyone. This process is formally known as "adjustment of status." However, the Immigration and Citizenship Code clearly states that this benefit is only granted to people who have been duly inspected and admitted (or permitted entry by "parole") to the United States.
In other words, if you entered the country on a visa, a tourist say, could benefit from this section of the Act, however, not all visas allow people to benefit from this process (for example, visas J-1 exchange-restricted residence abroad for 2 years after the end of it).
If you entered "illegal" does not qualify for regular adjustment of status. In other words, could not receive permanent residence in the United States, even though she marries an American citizen. However, if a family member was presented a petition before 2001 and you entered the U.S. as an illegal immigrant could obtain an adjustment of status even if you come in that way.
In conclusion, the answer is not simple as the question. If you feel you can benefit from some of these sections of the Act, consult with your lawyer before making any request.
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