US politicians have been talking for a long time about the risks of immigration, saying that some immigrants just can’t fit into American society. But after studying it for years, it turns out immigration is one of the most misunderstood issues in the US.
There are several positive stories about how immigration benefits both individuals and society. Here are ten myths about immigration that may lead to potential issues in your immigration case.
- “IMMIGRANTS ARE A BIG CAUSE OF CRIME.”
This idea has been around for over a hundred years, but it has been proven wrong. Immigrants are less likely to get locked up for violent or property crimes, and cities with more immigrants and their kids tend to be safer.
- “IMMIGRANTS BRING DOWN WAGES IN AMERICA AND HURT THE POOR.”
This myth doesn’t hold up too well. Immigrants tend to move to growing areas, which boosts both the supply and demand in the economy, creating more job opportunities.
The whole discussion about how immigrants affect American wages usually falls in the lower single digits, and for less-skilled native-born Americans, the impact is either small or even a good thing. In general, immigration has mostly helped raise wages and incomes for Americans.
- “THERE IS NO NEED FOR AN IMMIGRATION LAWYER.”
It is too expensive and unnecessary for most individuals to avail the services of an immigration lawyer, considering the many online resources available. However, a good lawyer will indeed make you win.
An immigration lawyer can walk you through, help you with the paperwork, and advocate for you in court, if need be. The lawyer also knows the changes in immigration laws, something you might not be aware of. Without a lawyer, you can make mistakes that will waste time or ruin your application.
- “CRIMINAL RECORDS AUTOMATICALLY DISQUALIFY APPLICANTS.”
A criminal record will certainly complicate the process of immigrating, but it won’t necessarily exclude you.
Every case is considered on a case-by-case basis, regarding what crime you have committed, when you committed it, and if you have subsequently reformed.
- “THE US IMMIGRATION SYSTEM IS THE SAME EVERYWHERE.”
Immigration policies are consistent nationwide, but the treatment of people within the system changes very much by state law and procedure. For example, how long it takes to get a response to their request and what aid is offered changes very much by state.
- “IMMIGRANTS HARM THE US ECONOMY AND WELFARE SYSTEM.”
Another myth is that immigrants steal public money and over-rely on social welfare, taxing the taxpayer. Indeed, immigrant taxes are more than spent on services. This is especially in the long term, as certified by the National Academy of Sciences studies.
Most immigrants are young, and therefore they need less Medicare and social security than native-born older people. Welfare programs are not available to most immigrants, even the undocumented ones.
Even the legal immigrants are subject to some limitations and generally have to be here for years before they can access some benefits. Immigrants are known to help the US economy by entering the workforce and driving innovation and growth.
- “ILLEGAL IMMIGRANTS DON’T WANT TO LEARN ENGLISH OR BLEND IN.”
Most illegal immigrants are willing to learn English and become a part of American society, and increasingly so. But circumstances like not being able to go to English classes and the fear of deportation make it harder for others.
Services offered by programs like English as a Second Language (ESL) classes help solve such problems. Lastly, whether someone would prefer to learn English and be a part of American culture is a personal decision that anyone can make for themselves, no matter their past or immigration status.
- “IMMIGRANTS AREN’T EDUCATED.”
A great number of immigrants coming to the US are highly educated, with over 48% holding a bachelor’s degree or higher.
This is in part because education is greatly prized within immigrant society. This is especially for individuals who come from traditional South Asian cultures. Even so, however, many highly educated immigrants struggle to find decent jobs in the US.
- “BORDER CONTROLS REDUCE MIGRATION.”
When countries implement border controls, it will interfere with the usual flow of people coming and going, which would likely make more migrants decide to stay in the country long term with such controls.
And, if others expect restrictions on entry, they might rush to enter the country even earlier.
- ONLY RICH PEOPLE CAN EASILY GET US VISAS.
Immigrants are not always wealthy. Also, it is not all visa programs are intended for rich and successful entrepreneurs. Despite issues, many immigrants manage to gain an acceptable immigration status.
CONNECT WITH US!
It is not necessarily simple to move to the US. Yet simply because it is difficult doesn’t mean that it is impossible. Having a capable immigration lawyer as your guide can work wonders to make the visa process less stressful – and maybe even quicker.
To learn more, get a copy of this comprehensive e-book on core immigration issues.
