Common Immigration Myths
While it is common for individuals to permanently immigrate to the United States from other countries, the process of obtaining citizenship is often surrounded by many different misconceptions and myths. These pieces of inaccurate information can lead to individuals making serious misjudgments when they are attempting to decide whether or not to start the immigration process.
Myth: A Better Option Is To Apply For A Job With An Employer That Does Not Check Immigration Status
Due to the fact that legally immigrating can take many years to complete, it is common for some individuals to simply assume that immigrating illegally and finding an employer that does not check status will be the easiest solution. However, it is a reality that illegal immigrants are a very vulnerable population. Many employers that work with these individuals will be aware of the power imbalance that exists, and they may try to take advantage of this through low wages, poor working conditions or unethical methods. Furthermore, individuals that are in the country illegally will be at risk of being deported whenever they have interactions with the government.
Myth: An Illegal Immigrant Will Only Be Deported If They Commit A Crime
Some individuals assume that the criminal justice system will simply handle illegal immigrant crime by deporting those that committed the offenses. However, individuals that violate criminal laws can still be at risk of being prosecuted and sentenced to prison. While the courts may decide that simply deporting those that committed minor crimes, this will rarely be the case for those that commit violent or otherwise heinous actions.
Myth: Obtaining Citizenship Is As Easy As Completing The Necessary Paperwork
Some individuals might assume that obtaining citizenship will simply involve filling out the appropriate paperwork. However, this is a lengthy process that is designed to ensure that those applying for citizenship are serious about their interest and that they will be able to support themselves once they are in the country. To help with this part of the process, it can be beneficial to obtain employment at a company that will sponsor your immigration application. If you obtain employment at a company that will sponsor your application and you are laid off, you will need to find a new employer to sponsor your claim. Otherwise, your work visa will expire, and this will result in you being considered an illegal immigrant. Due to this serious consequence, you should start the process of finding a new employer that will sponsor your application as soon as possible.
Contact an immigration lawyer for more help.