Immigration is a subject many of us are familiar with, whether from personal experience or that of friends and family close to us. With Iliana Campos Esq, from Iliana Campos Law Firm, we explore different aspects of the immigration process, looking into its complexities and nuances through a new lens.
A Journey of Growth, Understanding the Process
Iliana was born and raised in Costa Rica before relocating to South Florida two decades ago; having acquired a law degree in Costa Rica, Iliana had to embark on a new legal journey in the United States to establish her own practice.
Through her experience navigating and learning about the law system in the United States, Iliana discovered the hardships within immigration and the many legal processes that can be daunting for individuals going into the process blind. Luckily, her newfound understanding gave her the tools to learn about different pathways and requirements that can empower individuals to make informed decisions about their immigration goals.
Affirmative vs. Defensive Immigration
Iliana shares with us the difference between an affirmative and defensive immigration process. Affirmative immigration means willingly applying for a benefit, like a visa or a green card. Defensive immigration occurs when someone faces removal proceedings because of unauthorized entry or other legal issues. The distinction between the two is crucial to understand when first navigating immigration.
Immigration Options and Processes
Once we understand the types of immigration processes, it’s important to know the more specific immigration options and the corresponding processes involved. Here are the ones mentioned by Iliana.
Investment visa
This visa enables individuals to invest in the United States, with the potential to subsequently apply for a visa that grants them legal status and work privileges in the country. Iliana highlights the importance of demonstrating the major impact of investments on job creation and economic development.
Employment-Based Immigration
Extraordinary Ability Visa (EB1-A)
The EB-1A visa category, also known as the Extraordinary Ability visa, is designed for individuals who possess extraordinary abilities in the sciences, arts, education, business, or athletics, and who wish to immigrate to the United States. This visa allows individuals to bypass the labor certification process by demonstrating their extraordinary ability in their field. Once approved the Individual can apply for a green card.
National Interest Waiver (EB2-NIW)
The EB-2 National Interest Waiver (NIW) visa category is designed for individuals who possess advanced degrees or exceptional abilities and seek to immigrate to the United States. This visa allows applicants to bypass the labor certification process by demonstrating their significant contributions to the national interest of the United States. It is particularly advantageous for those who are engaged in fields such as science, art, business, or academia, where their work has a substantial impact on the country’s economy, culture, or welfare. Iliana mentions the importance of crafting a compelling narrative that provides effective evidence to support NIW petitions. Once approved, the Individual can apply for a green card.
Challenges and Solutions
So we know the processes and options offered on the immigration journey, but what about navigating its challenges? Well Iliana also shared some insights into overcoming obstacles and maximizing success.
Addressing Denials and Reapplications
Iliana acknowledges that denials are not uncommon during the immigration process. Oftentimes, they can be due to subjective evaluations made by immigration officers. But Iliana encourages persistence and readjusting strategies when reapplying for immigration benefits and, most importantly, not giving up during the process. Going through immigration can be a set of trials and errors, but with resilience, you may find success.
Education and Empowerment
They always say knowledge is power, and the concept is even truer when it comes to applying for immigration benefits. Iliana emphasizes how crucial knowledge and empowerment are to navigating the immigration process. Through her advocacy and educational efforts, Iliana aims to inform and empower individuals to pursue their immigration goals in the best way possible.
The immigration journey is complicated. As we’ve learned, it’s made up of many legal, personal, and societal dimensions. But by understanding the intricacies of immigration law and applying the expertise of professionals like Iliana Campos, people can navigate this journey with confidence and determination, all to achieve their dreams of living and thriving in the United States.
DISCLAIMER: The information provided in the article is for general informational purposes only. Readers are encouraged to conduct their own research and consult with appropriate professionals like Iliana Campos Esq. before making any legal, financial, or other decisions based on the information provided in the article.
