The American Dream: Immigrants and Entrepreneurs

by Alysia Suarez

 

The United States has long been the destination for people in pursuit of a better life. The "American Dream" draws immigrants seeking out freedoms including the opportunity for prosperity and success. These dreams include the chance to start their own businesses. The recent U.S. Census found that immigrants own 18% of small businesses in the U.S., a six percent increase from 1990. To put this into perspective, immigrants only account for 13% of the total U.S. population (Arora). Although immigrants have had to confront the poor economy and the lack of opportunities to secure traditional financing, they have proven themselves to be formidable entrepreneurs using determination and hard work to create successful businesses.

The entrepreneurial drive demonstrated by immigrants was born through the sacrifices made coming to the United States. Leaving their country and family behind in hopes of finding a better life provides the drive to succeed. Jim Blaine, CEO of the State Employees Credit Union, said 'Latinos are following in the footsteps of European immigrants a century ago. They all come in, and they have to be entrepreneurs" (Deconto). The numerous immigrants that I have interviewed over the past decade have shared that they have sacrificed to come to the United States in order to have the possibility of a better life for themselves and their children. They don't mind working multiple jobs to support themselves and their families both here and back home while they also save up to start-up their own business. Although the current economy crisis has had a major impact on many within the United States, and many are fearful of the uncertain future, it is the immigrants who hold onto hope that even through these challenging times there is room for growth and a chance at a better life that what they left. There are many reasons for people to immigrate to a foreign land but most come hoping for the possibility to embrace a new life where they are in control of their destiny through certain freedoms that are afforded to all within the United States. These freedoms include freedom to: choose your own religion, operating in a capitalist society, seek out an education, and make a better life for your family.

Even before the financial crisis started and funding became more challenging, immigrants faced the reality that seeking traditional financing would be difficult. Traditional lenders request a variety of documentation and proof of financial stability to support loans. This can be challenging for many immigrants. Any immigrant who recently immigrated would not have a credit score, nor access to credit or a solid job history, even if they earned a decent living in their home country. The culture of holding tight to family bonds and supporting each other collectively is what makes financing possible for many new start-up ventures of immigrants. Stieber writes, that although 'there are many government resources available to would-be entrepreneurs, most still rely on family and friends for most financing and other forms of support' (Stieber).

Interestingly enough, the majority of the immigrant entrepreneurs do not have college degrees (Arora). Even when immigrants have a degree from a higher educational institutions, their qualifications are often not recognized within the United States. Due to the limited employment opportunities, immigrants decide to start their own businesses and hire other immigrants to work with them and help run their businesses. However, an estimated 4.7 million U.S. workers are employed by immigrant owned firms gathering some $776 billion in revenues, according to the most recent figures in the Fiscal Policy Institute report (Koba). This observation that immigrants who do not have any formal higher education are able to start-up businesses in a foreign country is an example of how attitude and hard work go a long way in the entrepreneurial realm.

History has shown that immigrants in the United States of America provide remarkable economic strength. The U.S. attracts immigrants with its pro-growth culture and outstanding universities who often stay and create valuable, fast-growing startup firms. The current fear surrounding the economic crisis has capped visas and green cards available to immigrants, which has led to a decline in foreign workers in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics. As a result, the U.S. is currently at risk of losing its footing as the “brain magnet” compared to other nations (Immigration & Entrepreneurship). What will the future administration decide in regards to immigration? One thing is for sure: the passion and drive that is required to be a successful entrepreneur can be found in many immigrants who come to the U.S. seeking out a better life.

About the Author
Alysia Suarez is an International Development Professional with several years of experience, including five years living in Latin America doing development work and is involved in the immigrant community in the United States. Alysia is also enrolled in the Masters of Entrepreneurship Degree Program at Western Carolina University. Webmasters and other article publishers are hereby granted article reproduction permission as long as this article in its entirety, author's information, and any links remain intact. Copyright 2012 by Alysia Suarez.

 

Methods for Immigration

 by Peerally

Immigration laws of U.S are going to witness loads of changes unforeseeable future. However, millions of people may plan to reside in the U.S every year, only some get success in getting the immigration. Most enthusiasts do not get this opportunity only because of a wrong selection of Immigration Law firm in San Francisco.

Well, it is always good if we hire an Immigration law firm who furnishes all arrangement for Immigration to any country. Every country has its laws so it is always advisable to hire someone who knows better laws related to immigration. Immigration Lawyers in San Francisco is those who possess best knowledge and skills especially when it comes to immigration.

Relatives: There are number of ways to immigrate to U.S however, immigration via help of relatives is the perfect and speedy process for getting immigration. Every year about 480000 people immigrate to U.S. because of permanent resident relatives. Normally, the process of immigration initiates only when the permanent resident files a visa petition under foreign ministry and before that foreign relative can start to collect all necessary documents required for hassle free immigration process. Immigration Attorney in San Francisco helps in the process of immigration anyhow, if anybody is not having relatives.

Employment: The second most convenient way of getting immigration is through employment. Nevertheless, for successfully furnishing immigration what one needs are immigration law firms. There are so many laws related to it that only a professional could help the interested party. Most employers or immigrants who use employment as a medium need to show there is shortage of labor in the country. To do so employer must advertise the requirement in the local newspaper and follow other requisite recruitment process.

Refugee: A person who is an asylum is entitled to apply for permanent residence only after a year. Every year approximately 80000 people are accepted as citizens of U.S. There are very few countries in the world where political conditions are not sound and citizen of those countries sustain life in U.S as asylum.

Visa via Lottery Program: The U.S Congress has created visa via lottery program under which 55000 people from locations all over the world will immigrate to United States per year. Under this program, people from countries with low rates of immigration may apply. Applicant must have a high school certificate or have worked for two years in such a field, which requires at least two years of training. Low rates of immigration include those countries from which less than 50000 people had applied for immigration in the past five years.

San Jose Immigration Lawyers will help you out in the entire process of hassle free immigration, so getting help of these lawyers is always a better option.


About the Author
Peerally is a writer who excels in writing articles and write-ups focusing on a vital topic, which is San Jose Immigration Lawyers. Readers have always got great deal of information from his articles. For more information visit http://www.peerallylaw.com/en/index.php

Quebec Skilled Worker Immigration Visa from India

by ABHINAV Immigration Skilled workers are always in great demand in the Province of Quebec, attracted by the government by introducing easy selection process. If you are planning to immigrate to Quebec from India, you will certainly get a chance to avail various kinds of benefits in terms of important suggestion by lots of immigration professionals who focus on all the aspects of the province of Quebec and also reveal about lots of other benefits offered by the country for immigrants. The Quebec Skilled Worker Immigration Visa from India will be quite beneficial for those professionals who want to become successful and touch the apex. The province of Quebec is widely recognized as a major immigration destination for skilled professionals, introduced point based system that is used to access the eligibility of an applicant. The point system includes various immigration selection factors such as Training, Adaptability, Employment Offer, Age, Language Proficiency, Financial self-Sufficiency and lots more. You can contact many immigration experts to gather more information regarding this. The Quebec Skilled Worker Immigration Visa from India is quite popular among Indian skilled workers. If you want to access the Province of Quebec, you have to go through the entire selection process that follows different criteria. Besides, there are lots of other factors like Language proficiency, age, education and work experience, also taken into consideration by Quebec government while choosing the right candidate. Those applicants who seeking to obtain Quebec Skilled Worker Immigration Visa need to be proficient in French language as it is primary requirement and needs to be fulfilled by everyone. Indian immigration experts are known for their excellent service and having depth knowledge about all the popular Immigration countries. They serve skilled workers by letting them know about various employment opportunities for immigrants and several other benefits of permanent residence in the country. Moreover, they explain the selection procedure step by step so that an individual can grab their points easily. The selection procedure for Quebec skilled worker Immigration Visa is accomplished in two stages that have been discussed as follows. Employment experience, in this stage applicants need to satisfy any one of the following tests •Six months of full-time work experience of an occupation, which is in high demand in Quebec •An applicant needs to earn six months full time experience of an occupation and must be able to present the proof of guaranteed employment in Quebec •An applicant needs to earn at least 30 points on Professional Mobility Assessment and Employability •Qualification, in order to qualify this stage, an applicant needs to score at least 65 points (70 points for married) and satisfy the following conditions; •The applicants must be able to satisfy their financial capability, for that they will be awarded 1 point •The applicants can score up to 17 points for training •The applicants can score up to 10 points for experience •The applicants can score up to 15 points for employment •The applicants can score up to 31 points for adaptability •The applicants can score up to 10 points for age factor •The applicants can score up to 23 points for language proficiency •The applicants can score up to 8 points for children •The applicants can score up to 17 points for spouse's characteristic About the Author ABHINAV Immigration is the world's leading Immigration and Visa Consultation Company since its inception, way back in 1994. Abhinav provides quality professional assistance to immigrants and visa applicants interested in work permits, residence permit, or business immigration.

Immigration Problem in Canada - Finding jobs

by Michael Kapoustin Job problems face by an immigrant to Canada and the job system there in Canada. The article deals with what those thinking of immigrating to Canada should look on in the job front before taking the step. Canada does seem a dreamland for all the immigrants. They are given a world of promises and a picture of rosiness all around. But the goings isn't that smooth in that country. No doubt Canada has got one of the best healthcare systems in the world and is a great country to live in; there are unseen difficulties when one decides to migrate to Canada. First and foremost of them, is to find a job. It would not be wrong to say that plenty of people with Ph.D's and M.D's have to earn their livelihood by even working as a janitor as they do not find a job! Yes, upon their arrival in Canada, these people see that their qualifications like in the point system are not recognized in the country! So unless they again go to a college and take education in that country for a number of years, they would not be eligible to work in the same post which they had done in their home country, perhaps even quite successfully over the years! People of many professions have to face this brunt. Lawyers from the UK have to complete 1.5 years in a law school in Canada before they could sit for the Bar exam there. And if you take the 250,000 cap for Canadian immigrants you would see that Canada always has an influx of immigrants. Not only this, many immigrants' face language problems having come from a different part of the world and thus it is extra difficult for them to secure a job. Even if the companies do take on these immigrants, without the proper knowledge of a language, productivity is bound to reduce ultimately harming the company. Immigrants to Canada need to take care of the job factor before blindly following the route to Canada with an image set by the Canadian government, as that of a country which provides happiness and solace to all with absolutely no hassles. Immigrants to Canada need to take care of the job factor before blindly following the route to Canada with an image set by the Canadian government, as that of a country which provides happiness and solace to all with absolutely no hassles. About the Author Finding jobs in Canada is a painful task. One has to complete several Canadian Immigration Laws. Michael Kapoustin created a new platform where one can meet Immigration Lawyers and get instant help on immigration issues.

Methods for Immigration

by Peerally


Immigration laws of U.S are going to witness loads of changes unforeseeable future. However, millions of people may plan to reside in the U.S every year, only some get success in getting the immigration. Most enthusiasts do not get this opportunity only because of a wrong selection of Immigration Law firm in San Francisco.

Well, it is always good if we hire an Immigration law firm who furnishes all arrangement for Immigration to any country. Every country has its laws so it is always advisable to hire someone who knows better laws related to immigration. Immigration Lawyers in San Francisco is those who possess best knowledge and skills especially when it comes to immigration.

Relatives: There are number of ways to immigrate to U.S however, immigration via help of relatives is the perfect and speedy process for getting immigration. Every year about 480000 people immigrate to U.S. because of permanent resident relatives. Normally, the process of immigration initiates only when the permanent resident files a visa petition under foreign ministry and before that foreign relative can start to collect all necessary documents required for hassle free immigration process. Immigration Attorney in San Francisco helps in the process of immigration anyhow, if anybody is not having relatives.

Employment: The second most convenient way of getting immigration is through employment. Nevertheless, for successfully furnishing immigration what one needs are immigration law firms. There are so many laws related to it that only a professional could help the interested party. Most employers or immigrants who use employment as a medium need to show there is shortage of labor in the country. To do so employer must advertise the requirement in the local newspaper and follow other requisite recruitment process.

Refugee: A person who is an asylum is entitled to apply for permanent residence only after a year. Every year approximately 80000 people are accepted as citizens of U.S. There are very few countries in the world where political conditions are not sound and citizen of those countries sustain life in U.S as asylum.

Visa via Lottery Program: The U.S Congress has created visa via lottery program under which 55000 people from locations all over the world will immigrate to United States per year. Under this program, people from countries with low rates of immigration may apply. Applicant must have a high school certificate or have worked for two years in such a field, which requires at least two years of training. Low rates of immigration include those countries from which less than 50000 people had applied for immigration in the past five years.

San Jose Immigration Lawyers will help you out in the entire process of hassle free immigration, so getting help of these lawyers is always a better option.

About the Author

XYZ is a writer who excels in writing articles and write-ups focusing on a vital topic, which is San Jose Immigration Lawyers. Readers have always got great deal of information from his articles. For more information visit http://www.peerallylaw.com/en/index.php

Granting Permission To Enter America

by Jordan Rocksmith

All along the southern border of the United States there are issues with the number of people who are gaining illegal entry into the country without proper documentation or permission. Although Mexico connects to California, Arizona, New Mexico, and Texas there are a number of migrant workers from our southern neighbor that have made their way into every state of the union. Looking for better opportunities to provide for their families the Latino culture is known for its hardworking and industrious people. Coming from every corner of the globe international travelers also seek asylum within the borders of the United States and often begin their legal fight for freedom in the major gateway cities through airports and shipping harbors.

Understanding that there are economic as well as political advantages to living in America, many people flow through the system each year in search of a better way of life. While some are seeking an escape from their native lands others are interested in the financial gains that are available through satellite trade centers and commercial growth of their foreign based headquarters. Coming into the country to aid in the expansion of their corporate employers some of these people search out an immigration attorney in New York who can help them to gain a work visa or establish residency for their legitimate business concerns.

For some the retention of an immigration lawyer in New York means defending a deportation order and working to become a legal resident of the state after fleeing from their country of origin. In either situation there are circumstances that have brought the foreign nationals into the port city and whether they have permission to live, work, and raise their families in the United States or not becomes an issue for the government and in particular for the department of Immigration and Customs Enforcement. Working under the jurisdiction of the Justice Department people that find refuge within the countrys borders are subject to the laws of the land and find help navigating the complicated forms and paperwork with the aid of an immigration attorney.

About the Author
Berd & Klauss (http://www.berdklauss.com/) one of the premier immigration attorney New York.

Emigration to the USA, Want a Green Card For Talent?

by Groshan Fabiola

Emigration - moving from one country to another - can radically change a person's life. Of course, the more developed the country of your choice is, the more difficult is to emigrate there. Developed countries build barriers to unregulated immigration and attempt to search for skills and talent among the crowds desiring to immigrate.

This article is for people who seek emigration to America which is among the countries with the most strict and difficult immigration laws. There are four ways to obtain a green card - a status of a permanent resident alien in the USA. One can immigrate on the basis of (a) family relations; (b) employment/professional skills; (c) by winning in a Diversity Lottery; or (d) by obtaining a status of refugee/political asylum. There are thousands and thousands US law firms working in the area of immigration. We - a law group of Milgrom & Associates - work on all kinds of immigration cases. But our primary area is helping those whose goal is emigration on the basis of their unique professional skills and talent. And in this area we perform certain services that, as far as we know, are not offered by any other American attorney or law firm.

Let's say you are a foreign inventor and have a new invention you want to patent in the USA, or if you are a programmer, wrote a new computer program, and want to protect and register your copyright in the USA, or you are a composer who wrote a symphony which needs protection in the USA... In other words, if you (a) don't live in the US, (b) created something valuable and (c) want to protect your intellectual property rights in America - we can help you in doing that. Some other law firms offer such services, too.

Let's further say that after taking steps to protect and register your rights you believe that there is a demand for your creation in America. Then we can assist in monetization of your intellectual property. We can search for a company interested in licensing, manufacturing, marketing and selling your invention, for example. Or look for buyers for your computer program. Or find performers for your symphony. And when those interested parties are found we will conduct negotiations with them, draft an agreement on your behalf, and otherwise protect your interests. Very few - if any - law firms in the US offer this kind of services to their foreign clients. Finally, if your creation is commercially successful in America and emigration to the United States is your goal; we can help you and your family to get green cards - on the basis of that commercial success. As far as we know, nobody in the US offers all of the above as one package. These legal services offered by our firm are unique. Also we assist foreign talents and professionally successful people from all walks of life - science, literature/theater/music, business, sports, and industry - in obtaining green cards. We help them and their families in their emigration to the US.

Emigration to the US on the basis of professional achievements, getting green card for talent is not an easy task. We will assist you in navigation of stormy emigration waters and bring your family ship into a safe harbor.

About the Author
For more resources about Emigration to

United States Immigration Programs Continue to Strain Local Law Enforcement

by Tony R. Bertolino

Immigration has been a hot button issue in the United States for quite some time. In fact, it was discussed at length in last year's presidential election year. Perhaps the topic is no more passionately debated than in the states that form our southern border. One of the current questions facing the police forces in the Houston area is - how far can officers go in assisting with the federal issue of immigration control without compromising responsibilities to local matters of crime and justice?

The Department of Homeland Security has a division known as the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). Part of ICE's efforts includes a 287(g) program, which trains local authorities in immigration duties and gives the officers access to an extensive ICE fingerprint database. The hope is that giving the police officers such power will expedite the process of discovering and deporting those who have entered the country illegally.

The Houston Chronicle printed a story a while back about the effect of ICE's reliance on our communities. The main dilemma facing the suburbs surrounding Houston is the amount of time that officers would need to be away from their local duties in order to be trained by ICE - four or five weeks - as well as the fact that the county would have to continue to pay the salaries of its absent members. Because of these burdens on public safety and the county coffers, none of the six counties that surround Houston has yet applied for participation in the ICE program.

"Taking people out of pocket for an extended period of time would be a problem," said Cpl. Hugh Bishop, representative for the Liberty County Sheriff's Office.

Are the lines between federal and local responsibilities necessarily becoming blurred as the need to address immigration concerns reaches the forefront of policy discussions? If so, is there a way to train the needed law enforcement without further straining resources? These questions will need to be addressed as our country moves forward with the myriad of legal issues created by the immigrants entering our country every day.

With law offices in Austin, Houston and San Antonio, our immigration attorneys make it a priority at Bertolino LLP to keep ourselves at the forefront of immigration law. If you have an issue that requires legal assistance, please contact one of our immigration attorneys. http://www.belolaw.com

About the Author
Tony R. Bertolino is the managing partner at Bertolino LLP with law offices located in Austin, Houston and San Antonio, Texas. A member of the Trial and Appellate Litigation Team, Mr. Bertolino's practice is devoted largely to complex transactions, commercial litigation, business law, entertainment law and family law matters. You can read more about Mr. Bertolino at http://www.belolaw.com

Where Do the Candidates Stand on Immigration Laws?

by Todd A. Smith

Throughout the historic 2008 presidential campaign, Barack Obama and John McCain have disagreed and debated over issues such as the war in Iraq, the economy, and faith and values, rarely agreeing on a problem or solution. However, when it comes to the need to reform United States immigration laws, both candidates seem to be on the same wavelength and both are determined to secure U.S. borders and provide a path to citizenship for law-abiding undocumented immigrants and their families.

According to barackobama.com, the problems with immigration laws include a forty percent explosion in undocumented immigrants since 2000, broken immigration bureaucracy and unsuccessful immigration raids, which produced only 3,600 arrests in 2006.

Obama said, "The time to fix our broken immigration system is now … We need stronger enforcement on the border and at the workplace … But for reform to work, we also must respond to what pulls people to America … Where we can reunite families, we should. Where we can bring in more foreign-born workers with the skills our economy needs, we should."

The Democratic nominee wants to secure the borders by adding needed personnel, infrastructure and technology at U.S. borders and ports. Obama and running mate Joe Biden want to improve the immigration system by keeping immigrant families together and providing business owners with the workers they need to contribute to the economy. In addition, "Obama and Biden will remove incentives to enter the country illegally by cracking down on employers who hire undocumented immigrants," according to his website.

The Democratic ticket would also change immigration laws by requiring that undocumented immigrants pay a fine, learn English and go to the back of the line if they want to become United States citizens. Furthermore, Obama and Biden want to work with Mexico to promote economic development so that immigrants will not feel the need to enter the U.S. illegally to earn suitable wages to support their families.

McCain and running mate Sarah Palin also favor reforming immigration laws to promote a secure border, a path to citizenship and punishment for companies that hire undocumented workers.

"As you know, I and many other colleagues twice attempted to pass comprehensive immigration legislation to fix our broken borders; ensure respect for the laws of this country; recognize the important economic contribution of immigration laborers; apprehend those who came here illegally to commit crimes; and deal practically and humanely with those who came here, as my distant ancestors did, to build a better, safer life for their families, without excusing the fact they came here illegally or granting them privileges before those who have been waiting their turn outside the country," McCain said.

To secure U.S. borders McCain will set guidelines to secure the border through physical and virtual barriers, deploy unmanned aerial vehicles in border states, and continue the utilization of the US-VISIT visitor security program.

McCain and Palin would prosecute "bad-actor" employers who hire undocumented workers by creating a database that would quickly verify a job applicant's work eligibility status. The Republican would also reform immigration laws by creating a temporary worker program that meets the labor needs in this country by ensuring that students who are educated in America have the opportunity to work in this country upon graduation and reforming caps for the H-1B visa program to rise and fall with the demand for workers and market conditions.

And like their Democratic counterparts, the Republican ticket would change immigration laws by requiring all undocumented workers to enroll in a program to resolve their citizenship status, which will require them to pay fines, learn English, pass a citizenship course and guarantee that no one who enters this country illegally will get a green card before those applying legally.

About the Author
Todd A. Smith is the web master for ; Regal Mag The preeminent Online Magazine for African American Men. For more information on this subject visit our ; Community Section

How to get USA Visa for your spouse?

by Munish

A spouse is a legally wedded husband or wife. This visa is for you if you want to settle in USA on the basis of your relationship with your partner. There are many categories like H1-B visa, L-1, IR-1, CR1, K3 visa etc. This helps you to obtain permanent residence immediately. The first step is to file a Petition for Alien Relative, Form I-130 for your spouse (husband or wife) to immigrate to the United States.

You file the petition with the Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Citizenship and Immigrations Services (USCIS) immigration Field Office in the United States that serves the area where you live.

To obtain spouse visa, you must meet the following requirements: You must be legally married. Merely living together does not qualify a marriage for immigration Unmarried partners are ineligible to sponsor visas to the United Stated. You must be 18 years old before you can sign the Affidavit of Support, which is a form that will be required later in the process. You are also required to satisfy health and character requirements. The marriage must still be in existence; An appointment package is sent to the agent or the applicant.The appointment package gives the applicant an interview date and tells you the specific requirements of the visa. It includes instructions on where to go to have the required medical examination. During the interview process, an ink-free, digital fingerprint scan will be taken. Some visa applications require further administrative processing which takes additional time after the visa applicant's interview by a Consular Officer.

In general, the following is required: A passport valid for travel to the United States and with a validity date at least six months beyond the applicant's intended period of stay in the United States. Birth certificate Divorce or death certificate of any previous spouse Marriage certificate Police certificate from all places lived since age 16 Medical examination Evidence of financial support. A completed Form I-864 Affidavit of Support from petitioner/sponsor is required. Application for Immigrant Visa and Alien Registration, Form DS-230, both Part I and Part II Two immigrant visa photos Proof of the marriage and the husband/wife relationship Payment of immigrant processing fees, as explained below

About the Author
Gerald Cipolla & Associates specialize in L visa , and investor visa lawyer services. For more detail visit http://www.immigrationvisaus.com/

Immigration Issues: The U.S./Mexican Border Fence Debate

by Angel Martin

Much has recently been made of the Mexican/U.S. border fence prospect. Due to mounting concerns over national security, the demand for a more secure border has become a central issue in the debate on controlling illegal border crossing. With the passing of the Secure Fence Act in 2006, which authorizes and partially funds the possibility of 700 miles worth of barrier construction along the border, it became apparent that support for the plan was not limited to the most anti-immigration members of government. Although the bill was passed with relative ease in congress, there is no shortage of opposition against the concept of a physical barrier separating Mexico from the United States. There are compelling arguments on both sides of the issue, and this article will discuss the advantages and disadvantages of the barrier strategy.
Primary Pro-Fence Rationalizations:

1) First and foremost, increased prevention of contraband trafficking: There are relatively few who would argue against the fact that large numbers of criminals depend on the relatively porous sections of the Mexican border to traffic profitable contraband. According to the Bureau for International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs, as much as 90 percent of the cocaine sold in the US in 2004 was smuggled through Mexican territory. If one can easily transport illicit drugs across the U.S./Mexican border, what stops the transport of dangerous weapons, possibly weapons of mass destruction, from entering the U.S. the same way? It would be impossible to place enough border patrol stations along the unprotected sections of the border to end any and all illegal crossings and contraband transport, and with the risk of terrorist activity threatening the U.S. it would seem that we could not afford to allow even one individual to cross illegally. A physical barrier such as the double or triple, barbed-wire fence proposed would undoubtedly make entry more difficult for an unburdened individual and even more difficult for an individual transporting contraband.

2) It would limit the numbers of illegal immigrants crossing to live and work in the U.S.: While the debate over the exact effects of undocumented workers living and working in the U.S. are hotly debated, most will acknowledge that at least some of the effects are indeed negative, particularly when it comes to the economy.. The Center for Immigration Studies estimated that illegal immigration costs the government roughly $10 billion each year in deficit, the bulk of expenditures relating to public education, medical treatment for the uninsured, the federal prison system, and food assistance programs. While the amount of illegal aliens already living in the U.S. is dramatic, reducing the steady flow of new illegals would help to ease the burden created by those already present.

Primary Anti-Fence Rationalizations:

1) The effectiveness of a physical barrier may not justify the cost: While the Secure Borders act placed the cost for the fence at around $2 billion many skeptics argue that this figure severely underestimates the difficulties faced by such a massive construction effort through at times treacherous terrain. Critics point out that the construction of a much smaller fence separating San Diego and Tijuana, which by 2006 had already cost $74 million dollars. Many urge that a "virtual fence" solution would be more effective and more affordable while minimizing impacts on property and wildlife.

2) The fence would have a disastrous effect on wildlife: While the U.S./Mexican border has significance for the human population, area wildlife has never paid any attention to it. The Environmental Protection Agency fought the plan to fence off 700 miles of border territory, arguing that it would virtually annihilate wildlife corridors and migratory routes, but lost due to Homeland Security's exemption from federal laws such as the Environmental Protection Act when matters of national security are concerned. Many species, including the rare and endangered jaguar, depend on their ability to travel vast distances in search of mates and food. Additionally, in certain areas the fence would cut off access to the Rio Grande, the only source of fresh water for animals in the vicinity.

As of today, the planned 700 mile border fence is far from being completed. The battle will continue to rage over the best approach to solving the problem of illegal immigration via the Mexican border, but the ultimate solution will likely consist of high tech and low tech components. In a post-9/11 America, border security and immigration will remain at the center of political discourse. Immigration has always been an essential characteristic to the identity of the United States, and regardless of temporary waves of panic and the resulting security implementations, it is likely to remain as that way.

About the Author
For additional information on immigration issues, visit http://www.manchanda-law.com to set up your FREE INITIAL CONSULTATION with one of the nation's top immigration attorneys, Rahul Manchanda. Manchanda Law Offices PLLC 80 Wall Street, Suite 705 New York, NY 10005 phone: (212)968-8600

A Simple Primer For Immigration To The United States

by Daniel Millions

In the last several years, the United State's immigration policies have become topics of much debate. Regardless of your personal opinion on the matter, there are certain truths that we must consider. U.S. Immigration policies and regulation have become more stringent for those who are seeking to visit, work or immigrate in the United States. Below, you will find some important yet basic tips for understanding and hence limiting immigration pitfalls.

There are two ways by which an individual may legally enter the United States; a non immigrant visa, which is for the purpose of a temporary stay, or an immigrant visa which is used to enter the United States permanently.

A visa is a permission given by the U.S. Government for a person to enter the United States. Visas are granted to those who are visiting the U.S. on the grounds of the purpose of the visit. The length of stay permitted will be dependent on the purpose of the beneficiary's activities in the U.S. Visas will also restrict the beneficiary's actions while visiting the United States, such as prohibiting employment or education.

There are several ways to obtain an immigrant visa, these include but are not limited to: family petitions, employment based visas, and the visa diversity lottery program. There are few exceptions such as those granted refugee status and the beneficiaries of a derivative asylee status. For those who qualify and have the financial means to do so an investment opportunity in the United States may lead to temporary or legal permanent residency.

Under the non immigrant visa track, the applicant receives a visa for a certain amount of time. If the visa is based for work or school it will be given for the amount of time needed to complete such objective. The visa has an expiration date that can be extended if circumstances change. The provision of a visa does not guarantee that the holder will be allowed to enter the United States at a given time. Certain visas based on employment and education may require an annual renewal and do not extend till the completion of the objective.

Under the immigrant visa track, the beneficiary will be granted a visa to enter the United States and that will allow them to stay until they are able to complete the process for Lawful Permanent Residence. While most immigrant visas go to family members, there are a significant amount of immigrant visas that are allowed to those entering through employment and investment visas.

Once an individual has been a legal permanent residence for over five years, they may apply to naturalize and become a United States Citizen. This process has many requirements which include a showing of good moral character.

United States immigration policies and regulations are often lengthy and complicated, the application process is expensive and errors are often irreparable. For this reason it is best to seek the advice and assistance of an attorney prior to applying for immigration benefits.

About the Author
Find an immigration lawyer or naturalization attorney.

US immigration and visa System

by munish

Immigration refers to the movement of people from one country to other. While the movement of people has existed throughout human history at various levels, modern immigration implies long-term, legal, permanent residence in that country. Short-term visitors and tourists are considered non-immigrants. Immigration across national borders in a way that violates the immigration laws of the destination country is termed illegal immigration.

Under this definition, an illegal immigrant is a foreigner who either illegally crossed an international political border, be it by land, water, or air, or a foreigner who legally entered a country but nevertheless overstays his/her visa in order to live and/or work therein. Among all the countries, immigrating to the United States of America is consistently one of the most popular choices for overseas nationals wishing to make a new start, further their career, or join family members overseas. With huge cultural diversity and geographical variety, applying for immigration to the USA can provide a wealth of opportunities for potential US immigrants.

A citizen of a foreign country, wishing to enter the U.S., generally must first obtain a visa, either a non-immigrant visa for temporary stay, or an immigrant visa for permanent residence. The type of visa you must have is defined by immigration law, and relates to the purpose of your travel. A visa allows you to travel to the United States as far as the port of entry (airport or land border crossing) and ask the immigration officer to allow you to enter the country. Only the immigration officer has the authority to permit you to enter the United States. He or she decides how long you can stay for any particular visit.

Immigration matters are the responsibility of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. There are two categories of U.S. visas: immigrant and non-immigrant. Immigrant visas are for people who intend to live permanently in the US. Non-immigrant visas are for people with permanent residence outside the U.S. but who wish to be in the U.S. on a temporary basis such as for tourism, medical treatment, business, temporary work or study.

Approximately 28.4 million foreign-born people live in the United States, representing 10.4 percent of the U.S. population. International visitors and immigrants add greatly to USA’s cultural, education and economic life, according to American Demographics, adding about $10 billion a year to America's economic output. More important is the contribution immigrants and their children make just by being there to provide workers and leaders for the future.

If today's immigration totals hold steady, it will account for about two-thirds of U.S. population growth over the next 50 years. Gerald Cipolla & Associates specialize in immigration attorney us , and H1B visa services. For more detail visit http://www.immigrationvisaus.com/

About the Author
Immigration refers to the movement of people from one country to other. While the movement of people has existed throughout human history at various levels, modern immigration implies long-term, legal, permanent residence in that country. Short-term visitors and tourists are considered non-immigrants. Immigration across national borders in a way that violates the immigration laws of the destination country is termed illegal immigration. Under th

Legal Designations Of People Under US Immigration Law

Submitted By: Marcela Devivo

Here are some common terms for people who are pursuing action under US immigration law. These are some definitions of common terms that crop up in the everyday, though most people have only a vague idea about what they actually mean; here is a chance to find out.

Citizen:

A citizen is someone who hold citizenship, which is defined as state wherein a person holds membership in a political community and whose rights, social and political, are defended by the country where they maintain citizenship. A citizen has political rights, such as voting, whereas a non-citizen does not. While similar to the term 'nationality;' citizenship differs because you can have a nationality with having citizenship (this means you are subject to the laws of the country of your nationality, but have no political participation rights). It is also possible to have political rights without being the national of a state as long as you are a citizen.

Native-born citizen:

A native-born citizen is a citizen who was born in their country of citizenship. If a person is born in any country, they are automatically given fully legal citizenship at the moment of birth. A person is considered to be a citizen at birth if they’re jus soli, or born in the country in a certain place, even with non-native parents. They are also considered a citizen at birth via jus sanguinis, which is descent from a citizen of the country in which they were born. Either of these factors or a combination of both constitutes natural citizenship. If a person is both born in the country of citizenship to citizens of that country, they are considered a native-born-citizen. Both positions have all the same legal rights in a country; they're simply different ways of categorizing people.

Naturalized citizen:

A naturalized citizen is a person who chooses to voluntarily apply for citizenship (and gets it) in a country that is not their place of origin. People who apply for naturalization run the gamut from immigrant workers to refugees and aliens. Usually a person must meet certain requirements before becoming a naturalized citizen.

Dual citizen:

A dual citizen is a person who holds citizenship in two countries. An example might be if a child was born to Costa Rican parents in the US. They would hold not only US citizenship, but Costa Rican citizenship as well. Another example would be if a child was born to an American parent and a Costa Rican parent in Costa Rica. The child would be a Costa Rican citizen, but could apply for naturalization in the US. Keep in mind that some countries, like the US and Cuba, don't allow dual citizenship due to unresolved political disputes.

Alien:

Legally, an alien is anyone who is not a natural or native citizen of the country in which they live or work. Legal aliens are those allowed to stay in a country if they meet a specific set of criteria; a resident alien is one who has a permanent or temporary living space; a non-resident alien is what anyone is considered if they legally visit another country other than their own; In law, an alien is a person who is not a native or naturalized citizen of the land where they are found; an illegal alien is a citizen of one country who resides illegally in another country; an enemy alien is a person designated an enemy of the country they're in on.

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The steps needed for obtaining a green card

by Clint Jhonson

There is a long, difficult and time consuming process that needs to be undertaken if someone wants to obtain a green card and enjoy the benefits of US naturalization. A number of critics state that if the process would be simplified, the number of illegal immigrants would decrease significantly. And you can be sure that a lot of things may be done faster.

For someone to visit the United States as a tourist, student, patient or for business purposes, the process is very simple. They are required to present their passport, an ID card with a photo or birth certificate and the entry visa. Once they have done that, they are free to enter the country. It is very simple, low in cost and consumes very little time.

A visa is the endorsement on a document which is used to prove its authenticity and states the permission of its bearer to travel or to enter a specific country. An alternate name for this type of visa is a nonimmigrant visa. All the costs involved in the process reach 300$ the most and that is including passport fees, the nonimmigrant visa and a border crossing card.

The difficult process is when you want to reside and work in the US. You must obtain an immigrant visa, otherwise known as a green card. (wrong terminology, immigrant visa is not the same thing as a green card, it is sometimes a pre-requisite in that you enter with the immigrant visa and then have the option of adjusting your status to that of a lawful permanent resident otherwise known as green card holder.) This document was originally called the Alien Registration Receipt Card, but its name was recently changed to Permanent Resident Card. Before it was green in color, but now it is white with just a few green printings on the back. Because of this it is still known as a green card. It is valid for 10 years and the recipients of this document must have it with them all the time.

Obtaining a green card requires a petition by either a relative or an employer. This petition is meant to allow the foreign citizen to reside permanently or to be employed in the United States. After this, the long and difficult process begins. There are three steps involved in this process that may seem simple and easy to follow, but they require a lot of time and money.

Before, the service that issued the green cards was known as INS, or the Immigration and Naturalization Service, but now, since it is a part of the Department of Homeland Security, it is known as the US Citizenship and Immigration Service, or simply put USCIS. This institution is required to review all the documents and approve the petition filed by the relative or employer. This step can take more than two months. The lack of communication between the USCIS and the petitioner is the main cause for delays.

After you have overcome the first step, which can cost up to 400$, the paperwork is collected by the National Visa Center. The NVC determines whether any additional documents are needed. This step can take up to seven months and can reach a cost of more than 500$. The last step is to issue a visa number to the US embassy or consulate and only a few of those are available each year. For immediate family, waiting for a number is not necessary. An appointment to the embassy can take up to nine months.

The applicant is required to take additional blood tests and medical exams. This can cost an additional 200$. Once you have overcome these steps and you have your green card, you can reside in the US for 10 years. After 5 years you have the right to apply for citizenship. The naturalization is complete when you have taken the Oath of Allegiance.

Even though taking the Oath means you are a US citizen and the naturalization process has ended, you also need to prove you have good knowledge about the language, history, government and you are willing to uphold the principles of the constitution. The final fee that you are required to pay is of 400$ for fingerprinting and application and after that your US naturalization is complete.

About the Author
The three steps that have been presented afore seem simple. The hassle comes with the long periods of time you need to wait in order obtain your green card . It requires commitment, determination and resources. After all the efforts are over and your naturalization is complete.

US Immigration

Submitted By: Immigration Ran

US immigration is a process to travel from other nations as an immigrant or non-immigrant to the U.S. A person who desires to travel to the U.S should require visa and follow certain immigration rules and regulations.

Getting an immigration visa is very complicated .It is constantly changing. An immigration lawyer will be able to help with (immigration and naturalization) issues such as obtaining a U.S. work visa or other type of visas like Visitor visas B1, B2 for business visitors, Student visa,L1-Intracompany transferee visas, E1-Treaty trader, E2-Treaty investor, Family visa include K and V (fiancée visa and spousal visa) and green card issues. A US immigration attorney or immigration lawyer deals with issues concerning foreign nationals who enter the U.S either temporarily or permanently. Their line of work involves everything associated with the legal rights, duties, and obligations of foreigners in the United States.

Depending upon the purpose, there are many types of U.S. visas. Mainly visas are divided into two types Non-immigrant visas and Immigrant visas. Non-immigrant visas like: B1 Visa- It is mainly for temporary visitor for business.B2 Visa- This type of visa is for temporary visitors for pleasure.H-1B Visa – It is mainly applicable to persons in a specialty occupation which requires the theoretical and practical application of a body of highly specialized knowledge requiring completion of a specific course of higher education.H-3 Visa-Applies to trainees. This classification also applies to practical training in the education of handicapped children.H4- It is for dependents of H1, H2 or H3 visas.

Immigrant visas provide permanent resident status (Green Card) to foreign nationals to permanently reside and travel in the US. Certain immigration visas also permit to change or ‘adjust status’ (I-485, I-140), which is the process of adjusting the foreign national’s position from nonimmigrant to immigrant without having to leave the US.

About the Author:
Detailed information on US immigration visas can be obtained from http://www.immigrationforum.com , it also provides various categories like Nonimmigrant visas, Immigrant visas, Citizenship, Canada immigration, UK immigration, Australia immigration and more for discussion.

Some Basic Facts About US Immigration

by Mike Selvon

The statistics say that each year there are more people who decide to leave their homeland and make their way to America for the purpose of immigrating. However, if you are interested in US immigration, it is a good idea to take a bit of time to learn about the process before starting on your journey.

Each year there are also movies and other media that can make it seem like something that is exciting, glamorous and downright simple. But, the reality can be considerably different than the Hollywood portrayals. It should be remembered that there is also a good deal of controversy surrounding emigration, especially from certain countries and certain parts of the world.

It is easy to get excited about the prospect of immigrating to America. Before making a final decision to go through with US immigration, be sure to seek out good information, advice and input from others, so that you know what the entire process entails.

It is simply not for everyone, as much as some people would like to think it is. In order to be assimilated into the United States as an immigrant, some people discover that it is much more difficult to leave their home country behind, as well as family, culture, tradition and national pride.

It is a costly matter and many people find that it is just too expensive to be able to emigrate to America. The fees required to submit the necessary forms to start the process have recently been raised.

For example, Form I-130 Petition is the form to use for an alien relative and costs $355 USD to submit, while the Form I-485 Register Permanent Residence costs $930 USD to file and a filing for the adjustment of status is the same. These and the many other required fees add up quickly, often making it prohibitive for many people to even get the process of US immigration started.

Some people find the process so intimidating, especially if there is a language barrier, that they seek out immigration help from a US immigration attorney. While such an attorney can often help to speed up and smooth out the process, the cost to retain an attorney for help with US immigration is often not an option for many.

Unless you plan to be emigrating with your complete family or at least those in your immediate family, it can end up being a wrenching experience, especially if you come from a close-knit family. For those who are accustomed to seeing their extended family members regularly, US immigration can be a very emotionally difficult undertaking.

Instead of being nearby for frequent family gatherings, when you move abroad the expense of travel often limits family interaction significantly.

If emigrating from a non-English speaking country, life in the US might be more challenging unless you are already very comfortable with the English language. Knowing at least some basics in English will definitely help you assimilate into the culture more quickly, should you decide that US immigration is the right step for you.

About the Author
Everyone wants a US Citizenship, and Mike Selvon's portal will expand your knowledge on the US immigration basics. Visit us and leave a comment at our immigration to us blog where a free gift awaits you.

US Immigration And Customs Enforcement Agency Has Broad Investigative Powers

by Mike Selvon

The US Immigration and Customs Enforcement service, also called ICE, has recently become the investigative department that is by far the largest such unit and is a component of the Department of Homeland Security, or the DHS. One of the main responsibilities of ICE is to find the vulnerable areas of the US borders, eliminate the problems and make the borders as secure as possible.

US Immigration and Customs Enforcement is also responsible for much of the security associated with the US borders in aspects of economics, transportation issues and the overall security of the infrastructure.

The US Immigration and Customs Enforcement agency is also responsible for enforcing approximately 400 federal statues inside of the US borders. As well, it has agent attaches who are posted at all of the primary United States embassies overseas.

Because of this and the US immigration policies, ICE and the special agents of the agency, are considered to be empowered with the broadest investigative authority that exists within the US federal government.

The mission statement of ICE is to protect the United States of America and to uphold the public safety by identifying and targeting the money, people and/or materials that are used in support of both terrorist and criminal activity within the US. The ICE agency motto is, "Integrity, Courage and Excellence."

The US Immigration and Customs Enforcement agency is under the direction of an Assistant Secretary. This position is by appointment and considered a sub-cabinet level.

The ICE Assistant Secretary is appointed by the President of the United States and then must be confirmed by a vote of the US Senate. Therefore, he or she reports to and is under the direction of the Secretary of Homeland Security.

ICE was formed under the provisions of the Homeland Security Act of 2002 which was passed after the tragic events of September 11, 2001. When the Department of Homeland Security, or DHS, was formed in accordance with the Homeland Security Act, all of the functions and authority of several different revenue and border enforcement agencies were brought together and rebuilt as the US Immigration and Customs Enforcement agency.

As a result of this restructuring, ICE is the investigative arm of the DHS. It is the largest in manpower and resources and it is also the second largest contingent of support and contribution to the efforts of the Unites States' Joint Terrorism Task Force, second only to the contributions of the FBI.

Because of the way the various agencies were restructured under the new DHS, the newly formed ICE is now made up of intelligence resources from the US Customs Service, combined with the law enforcement functions of the Immigration and naturalization Service and the US Federal Protective Service. As a result, ICE is now responsible for protecting all federal government buildings within the borders of the United States.

Since the US Immigration and Customs Enforcement department has been given such a huge law enforcement responsibility and with such board authority that it has, the hiring process for new agents is competitive and rigorous, and the standards are very high.

About the Author
Everyone wants a US Citizenship, and Mike Selvon's portal will expand your knowledge on the US immigration and customs agency. Visit us and leave a comment at our immigration to us blog where a free gift awaits you.

Legal Designations Of People Under US Immigration Law

Here are some common terms for people who are pursuing action under US immigration law. These are some definitions of common terms that crop up in the everyday, though most people have only a vague idea about what they actually mean; here is a chance to find out.

Citizen:
A citizen is someone who hold citizenship, which is defined as state wherein a person holds membership in a political community and whose rights, social and political, are defended by the country where they maintain citizenship. A citizen has political rights, such as voting, whereas a non-citizen does not. While similar to the term 'nationality;' citizenship differs because you can have a nationality with having citizenship (this means you are subject to the laws of the country of your nationality, but have no political participation rights). It is also possible to have political rights without being the national of a state as long as you are a citizen.

Native-born citizen:
A native-born citizen is a citizen who was born in their country of citizenship. If a person is born in any country, they are automatically given fully legal citizenship at the moment of birth. A person is considered to be a citizen at birth if they’re jus soli, or born in the country in a certain place, even with non-native parents. They are also considered a citizen at birth via jus sanguinis, which is descent from a citizen of the country in which they were born. Either of these factors or a combination of both constitutes natural citizenship. If a person is both born in the country of citizenship to citizens of that country, they are considered a native-born-citizen. Both positions have all the same legal rights in a country; they're simply different ways of categorizing people.

Naturalized citizen:
A naturalized citizen is a person who chooses to voluntarily apply for citizenship (and gets it) in a country that is not their place of origin. People who apply for naturalization run the gamut from immigrant workers to refugees and aliens. Usually a person must meet certain requirements before becoming a naturalized citizen.

Dual citizen:
A dual citizen is a person who holds citizenship in two countries. An example might be if a child was born to Costa Rican parents in the US. They would hold not only US citizenship, but Costa Rican citizenship as well. Another example would be if a child was born to an American parent and a Costa Rican parent in Costa Rica. The child would be a Costa Rican citizen, but could apply for naturalization in the US. Keep in mind that some countries, like the US and Cuba, don't allow dual citizenship due to unresolved political disputes.

Alien:
Legally, an alien is anyone who is not a natural or native citizen of the country in which they live or work. Legal aliens are those allowed to stay in a country if they meet a specific set of criteria; a resident alien is one who has a permanent or temporary living space; a non-resident alien is what anyone is considered if they legally visit another country other than their own; In law, an alien is a person who is not a native or naturalized citizen of the land where they are found; an illegal alien is a citizen of one country who resides illegally in another country; an enemy alien is a person designated an enemy of the country they're in on.

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New York Immigration marriage and US work Visas?

by Karl


An immigrant visa to enter the United States as a lawful permanent resident. Upon entry into the United States with an NY immigrant visa and Lawyer help...

United States citizen may use an immigrant visa to enter the United States as a lawful permanent resident. Upon entry into the United States with an immigrants US work visa, a lawful permanent resident is entitled to receive a green card. There are many different ways to obtain an immigrant visa or green card. A non- United States citizen can obtain a green card through:

· Employer sponsorship.

· Investments in the United States.

· Family sponsorship.

· Self-sponsorship as a person of extraordinary ability in business, athletics, arts, education or scientific research.

· Visa lottery.

· Political asylum.

· Amnesty programs (most amnesty programs are now completed and if you have not yet filed for it, you are ineligible to do so now);

· Registry (proving continuous residence in the United States since 1972)

· Applications for Cancellation of Removal in Deportation.

Each of the above paths to obtain a green card requires the filing of different and complex applications and us work visa petitions with the United States Department of Homeland Security.

There is also no reason not to file more than one "green card application" or visa petition at the same time to obtain your lawful permanent residence. For example, a non- United States citizen can be sponsored simultaneously by an Employer, a permanent resident parent and can simultaneously submit an application for the visa lottery. This same non-United States citizen can obtain his or her green card from which ever case is completed first.

The reason different cases take different time periods to complete is because the number of people allowed to enter the United States each year with an Immigrant Visa is limited under a quota system. Some cases have a long waiting list under the quota system, such as sponsorships of brothers and sisters of United States citizens and other cases have very little wait at all, such as self sponsorship based on extraordinary ability. A person who is being sponsored for a green card is called a "beneficiary". A beneficiary's place in line under the quota system is determined by priority dates. A priority date is the date in which a beneficiary's application is first received by the immigration service or labor department.

Bio:

About the Author
The New York Law Offices of Spar and Bernstein P.C. have a long history of timely and successfully obtaining Green Cards for their more resources NY H1-Visa.