QUESTION: I have been fighting for years to obtain residency and it seems like a never ending battle. I’m getting down and don’t really know if I want to continue. Any help?
Answer: Well, there have been some very good developments over the last year. First, there is DACA to allow people under 30 to apply to the ability to be able to stay here, work and go to school in two year increments. There has also been regulations issued (although not final yet) for the Stateside Waiver of Inadmissibility so that loved ones do not have to wait outside the United States for years while the government is deciding whether to grant or deny the waiver.
Also, President Obama has been re-elected. It seems now there are legislators and other parties now interested in coming forth with a comprehensive immigration bill. We will have to see on this if this is coming, but it does seem a considerably higher priority than in the prior administration.
We also have to look at what has happened in Connecticut with the shooting of all of those children. It was an absolute terrible and horrific incident. I know that the United States and the world pours their hearts out and sympathy to the families whose children were killed. It makes each and every one of us look at our own children and to become thankful that they are with us and that they are safe.
It also makes us realize that there does not seem to be any problems that we cannot eventually overcome. Thus, the fact that you have fought for years to obtain residency can be frustrating, but it is certainly doable. There is light at the end of the tunnel. During this Holiday Season, we should be very grateful for all that we have and all that has been given to us. There will always be struggles and adversity, but as you can see, it can be much, much worse.
We should take a step back from all of the daily struggles and problems we have and hug our loved ones and give thanks for what we have. As an Immigration Attorney, I will continue the fight for comprehensive immigration reform and I will continue to fight against injustice that is felt in the immigration world. Finally, while we are giving hugs to our loved ones and being thankful for everything we have, let’s send our prayers and sympathies to the families of the victims in Connecticut.
I would also like to take this opportunity to wish everyone a joyous and festive Holiday Season.
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Brian D. Lerner is an Immigration and Naturalization Attorney. He is a Certified Specialist in Immigration and Nationality Law as Certified by the State Bar of California, Board of Legal Specialization. Mr. Lerner is married to a Filipina and has been helping Filipinos immigrate to the United States for nearly 20 years. His firm represents clients in Deportation/Removal proceedings, does Waivers, Appeals, Naturalization, Adjustments, Criminal Relief, Citizenship, Consulate Processing, Work Permits, Investment Visas and all other areas of Immigration and Naturalization Law. You can go online to http://www.californiaimmigration.us/ and get a free consultation or call us at (562) 495-0554 for an in-person office consultation.
