U S M I G R AT I O N I N V E S T M E N T
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Exploring US immigration pathways Shai Zamanian, US Licensed Lawyer and Migration Specialist at The American Legal Center, based in Dubai, navigates the complex world of visas and routes to US residency
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hroughout the history of the United States, immigration has been integral to the nation’s growth and development, delivering economic, social, and cultural heightening. The global movement of people in search of a brighter and better future for themselves and their families continues to drive the interconnectedness of the world. However, with time and the introduction of
SEPTEMBER 2021
systematic approaches, as well as different political agendas, immigration procedures have become more complex and confusing. Imagine you wanted to immigrate to the US today; would you know which immigration programme would be best for your family or even your career trajectory? Most likely you would not as regulations imposed by the former Trump administration are different to those introduced by President Biden. The truth is that with so many different visa categories on offer, most people are unaware which immigration programme best suits their personal and family circumstances.
Why the move to the United States?
Understanding the reason and ultimate goal for your move will help steer you towards the best visa category aligned to your objectives. If you are moving solely for work purposes or studies, then you must explore the non-immigrant visas. These are renewable visas that limit the time you can stay in the country. They do not provide a pathway to a Green Card or citizenship but facilitate the short-term needs of an individual. However, if your main objective is to relocate your family or simply starting afresh, you should explore the immigrant visa options. These provide foreign nationals with the opportunity to obtain a US Green Card and eventually become US passport holders.