Immigration 101
Immigration 101: The Basics for Beginners
Moving to a new country is exciting and full of new opportunities. However, the process can also be daunting, no matter why you’re looking to make your home in the United States. Understanding immigration law is a challenge, and official resources are often littered with jargon and confusing sentences. We’re here to break through that confusion and provide the information you need for a successful move. Here are the immigration basics for beginners you need to know.
What Is Immigration?
Immigration is the process of moving from one country to another with the intention of living there permanently. When someone immigrates, they intend to become a resident of their new country and perhaps eventually pursue citizenship.
How Immigration Differs from Emigration and Migration
It’s no surprise that immigration, emigration, and migration are often confused. However, the distinction among these terms is critical. Here are some basic definitions that will be useful as you read and submit legal documents:
Immigration—The process of entering and settling in a new country from the perspective of the destination country. When you immigrate to the US, you’re viewed as an immigrant by the American government.
Emigration—The process of leaving your home country. If you’re leaving your home country of France, you’re viewed as an emigrant by the French government.
Migration—A broader umbrella term covering any movement of people from one place to another.
The Immigration Process Explained
Immigrating to the United States involves multiple steps, and it’s easy to get tripped up along the way. The process starts with obtaining the proper documentation and making sure you meet all the eligibility requirements. Once that’s taken care of, it’s a waiting game. Some immigrants are approved within several months, while others wait years before they’re granted residency. Much of this depends on the visa you’re applying for and the reason you’re coming to the US.
Types of Immigration Status
Immigration is so confusing in part because of all the different legal pathways you can take. Some folks enter because they have family already in the United States, while others come because of a job opportunity. Immigration laws in the USA allow for these forms of legal entry:
Family-Based Immigration—This system allows citizens and permanent residents to sponsor relatives for immigration. The good news about his method is that immediate relatives like spouses, children, and parents typically receive priority processing.
Employment-Based Immigration—This type of immigration welcomes workers with specific skills or education. The United States has a separate track for highly skilled workers, investors, and entrepreneurs.
Asylum—People who have received credible threats of harm in their home country may be eligible for asylum in the United States.
Refugees—People with refugee status may be allowed entry into the US after screening and processing in their home country.
Support Systems for New Immigrants
While there’s no concrete immigration guide for families, many communities have resources for new arrivals. These tools can mean the difference between thriving in your new home and struggling with basic needs. Many immigrants find immense benefits in the following resources:
Settlement Programs—These programs offer orientation sessions covering local laws, cultural norms, and practical information about housing, healthcare, and education.
Language Training—If an immigrant doesn’t speak the local language, language immersion programs can help them develop the everyday communication skills they need.
Employment Assistance—Immigrants who don’t arrive with a job offer may benefit from these programs. These resources connect new arrivals with job placement services and training opportunities.
Non-Profit Organizations—These community resources provide services the government doesn’t, including temporary housing, legal support, mental health counseling, and more.
Schools and Universities—Educational institutions frequently offer programs for immigrants, such as English as a Second Language (ESL) classes and career counseling.
Practical Immigration Tips for Newcomers
Immigrating to a new country isn’t a decision that’s ever taken lightly. The process is complicated, and many people run into snags along the way. Here are a few practical immigration tips for newcomers to make your transition a bit easier:
Calculate the Costs—Immigration isn’t cheap! Factor in costs for application fees, medical exams, document translation, and travel expenses. Don’t forget to consider the cost of living in your new home.
Learn Language Fundamentals—Language proficiency can help immensely as you transition to the United States. While you can certainly find language resources in the States, you can set yourself up for success by learning some basic expressions before arriving.
Research the Culture—You’ll likely need to adapt to different social norms in your new home. Do some research into cultural differences so you know what to expect.
Know the Timeline—The immigration timeline looks different depending on your circumstances. Talk to a legal professional about how long the process may take for you.
Taking the Next Step in Your Immigration Journey
Whether you’re coming to the United States to be with family or taking on a new job, Hurtubise Weber Law LLP may be able to help. We provide a slew of immigration resources to families in San Francisco and San Jose, CA, and our team would be glad to help you, too. Contact us today for more information.