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The United States immigration process involves moving away from one country into the U.S., but the procedures involved are more complicated than ever. There are strict controls over the immigration process and individuals must be willing to follow these rules and regulations if they want to move to the U.S. legally.
Simply visiting the United States requires a travel visa, although these are not as easy to get since the terrorist acts of 9/11 that involved non-U.S. citizens. An immigration visa, which is required to move here permanently, is even harder to get. People often find themselves struggling with the requirements. This is why an immigration lawyer is an invaluable resource for anyone attempting to go through this process; they can help to understand the various issues that come up when someone is trying to obtain a United States work visa or any of the other types: B1 and B2 visas for business, student visas, L1-intracompany transferee visas, E1-treaty trader visas, E2-treaty investor visas, family visas and others. Some people also simply want a Green Card, which allows them to live in the country without becoming a citizen.
Public attitude:
The public attitude about immigration was strongly shifted after the September 11 attacks. The number of Americans who want immigration to be restricted or who want harsher laws is now 20 percent greater than prior to the attacks. Most Americans are aware of both the good and bad sides of immigration. That’s why almost half of Americans think that legal immigration helps the country, but the other half still believes it hurts U.S. interests. Where most people agree, however, is on the issue of illegal immigration. The common American is less and less willing to allow the access of illegal immigrants to government services or public protection.
How to become a permanent resident:
If you want to become a legal United States immigrant, you must follow a multiple-step process. First, the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) must approve an immigrant petition for you. After that they will give you an immigrant visa number and, if you are already in the United States, you may apply for permanent resident status. If you are living outside the United States, you will be notified by the USCIS and will have to go to your local consulate to complete the process.
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