The United States is like a magnet that attracts immigrants from all over the world. The reasons why they find this country so attractive are plenty and the reasons why they feel obligated to leave their countries of origin are as varied as the number of people seeking entry into the United States. However, their journeys are not always easy and, once they are admitted into this country, they face many problems that make their adaptation and integration into American society a difficult project on its own.
What sort of problems do immigrants face?
Because of problems such as concerns over jobs and employment, difficulties obtaining the desired visas and an untenable situation at the southern border, the road many immigrants must travel before finally being able to settle in the United States is not an easy one. Among the most salient problems immigrants face today are:The Language Barrier
Not speaking English is not something that a new immigrant can ignore. Not having a mastery of the language plays a role in the type of jobs a new immigrant can seek, the academic outcome their children will achieve in school, and every single task of their daily lives may be compromised merely because the simplest thoughts cannot be communicated to others.Conflicting Cultural Values
Many cultures practice rituals, act in a certain way in social situations, and have unique methods of interpersonal interactions that are at odds with the cultural norms that are practiced in the United States. Although at first glance it may seem that these differences are not insurmountable, the reality is that not knowing how to act in society places a huge burden on immigrants’ shoulders and may also end up impacting their job prospects and quality of life.Mental and Physical Stress
May immigrants come to the United States fleeing war in their home countries, others face involuntary expulsion. These situations alone warrant the appearance of mental and physical conditions. If these are not addressed properly or at all they may end up becoming permanent.
Lifestyle Challenges
Many immigrants have never experienced winter, have never seen snow, and don’t understand how to live in extreme weather. Others have never had running water nor do they understand how to live in an apartment in a high-rise building. They may find that when they go to a grocery store, they don’t recognize any of the products being sold there. All these issues amount to considerable daily challenges.Facing a Limited Number of Visas
Dealing with the immigration system in any country and under any condition has its challenges and requires an understanding of the way things work. Applying for a visa may be viewed as a lifesaver and, as such, can carry quite a bit of stress. Additionally, many visa categories offer only a certain number of visas per year or per country. In some cases, the visa applies to the breadwinner but not to their family members. All these issues place quite a bit of stress on the applicant.If you are considering applying for a visa to immigrate temporarily or permanently to the United States, it may be a good idea to schedule an immigration lawyer consultation with a knowledgeable and experienced immigration lawyer that can explain the options available to you.
