Migrating To The U.S From Latin America: How To Turn Your Dream Into Reality

As of 2018, migrants from Mexico and the rest of Latin America each made about 25 percent of the U.S. immigrant population, from 6 percent and 3 percent respectively in 1960, according to Pew Research Center. Migration among Latin Americans isn’t a new phenomenon. And the reasons for migrating to the U.S. today are the same as they were decades ago. Typically, migrants seek to reunite with family members, land better employment opportunities or find refuge from political violence. However, the way to a life of endless possibilities isn’t straightforward as many people assume. There are aspects one must take into consideration, including the different literary perspectives on the US-Mexico border. To turn your migration dream into a reality, below are a few immigration tips every Latin American should know. 

Ways to immigrate to America

The U.S. is a country of strict policies, and anyone looking to enter should comply with the law. Fortunately, there are several ways you can migrate to America legally. These procedures include family-based immigration, work-related immigration, immigration as an investor or student. Family-based immigration allows migrants with family members of U.S. citizenship to obtain permanent residency. In short, a legal resident or U.S. citizen can sponsor parents or siblings aged 21 and above, or bring a foreign spouse or fiance to the country. 

Even without relatives onsite or a Green card Visa, you can still migrate to the U.S. legally through an employment visa. In this case, an employer sponsors you as a worker because you possess specialized skills they can’t find locally. Alternatively, you may enter the U.S. as an investor as long as you invest about $500,000 and create five full-time job opportunities. 

Working in the USA

Unlike most countries, America’s service sector is active. So, you can be sure of finding work in the U.S as long as you have a good education and possess in-demand skills in I.T., medicine, engineering, and craftsmanship. In addition to having the right job qualifications, you’ll need a work visa. For instance, if you have nursing skills and want to become a caregiver, you need to obtain a caregiver’s visa. In most cases, foreign caregivers are sponsored by employers who apply for an H-2B visa on their behalf. That way, they can enter the country and offer home-based caregiving services. 

Moving to the United States

Once you have won a Green Card or obtained permanent residency through family or employment-based immigration, your next step is moving to the U.S. But before moving, you need to refresh your English, digitize important documents like the birth certificate, and confirm the validity of your passport and other identification documents. You’ll also need to invest in international health insurance for a couple of months after moving. Other important considerations when migrating to the U.S. include applying for a Social Security Number, driver’s license, bank account, and cell phone number.       

For decades, Latin Americans making their way to the US-Mexico border have been blamed for cheating the system or simply breaking migration rules. This perspective has forced the U.S. to implement tough measures for Latin American migrants. As a result, immigrants can only enter the United States legally through winning a Green Card Visa, employment or family-based immigration process. 

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