"May apply" does not mean the status is automatically granted. If that were the case, that application confers the status, there would be no need for the application. That should be obvious, except for obstructionist Democrats. If it were the case that simple application confers the status, then the act of applying for a driving license would mean that the applicant would be immediately allowed to drive - same case for a license to practice law, or medicine. And that just isn't the case.
"May apply" does not mean the status is automatically granted. If that were the case, that application confers the status, there would be no need for the application. That should be obvious, except for obstructionist Democrats. If it were the case that simple application confers the status, then the act of applying for a driving license would mean that the applicant would be immediately allowed to drive - same case for a license to practice law, or medicine. And that just isn't the case.