5 Common Challenges faced by Immigrants

If you have decided to move to the U.S for a better life and career, you are not alone. The country is not called the land of opportunities for nothing and people all over the world envy the American lifestyle. Applying for an immigration visa, passing the USCIS interview, and qualifying for permanent residency are a few components of the immigration process. Going through the lengthy procedures, completing paperwork, and fulfilling all the legal obligations can be increasingly difficult on your own. Massachusetts Immigration Attorney can make it easy by taking care of important steps, identifying mistakes/errors in time, providing vital advice/guidance, and serving as your advocate if necessary.

Once you overcome all the trials to start a life in the U.S, you may encounter several other challenges as an immigrant:

1. Language Barrier

English may not be your mother tongue or native language, unless you came from the U.K. Immigrants from Europe and Asia who are only used to conversing in their local language struggle to speak in English all the time. Even those who are relatively well-versed in the language suffer because of the different accents and pronunciations. Day-to-day errands and managing work becomes harder when you cannot easily communicate with people around you. You can remove the language barrier by building your linguistic skills before moving to the U.S. You can do this by taking classes, watching American movies/documentaries, and reading English books.

2. Cultural Differences

You may come from a place where people have very different values, morals, and beliefs. The way Native Americans live their life might seem far too progressive and ambiguous in the beginning. Many immigrants also feel singled out because of their skin color and other ethnic features. They might even face disapproval, criticism, and prejudice sometimes. Truth is that the U.S is a multicultural country and an overwhelming percentage of the population is biracial. You shouldn’t feel pressured into adopting any local customs or giving up on your own culture. You might view yourself as a minority, though you will find many like-minded people who are willing to accept you as you are.

3. Employment Limitations

In order to make ends meet in uncharted territory, many immigrants must take odd jobs and work for minimum wage. A lot of employers prefer native candidates for significant positions or important jobs, which can be off-putting. Your lack of work experience in the country may also raise doubts, thus landing your dream job as soon as you migrate to the U.S would be farfetched. You will have to work twice as hard as the locals and prove yourself to be considered for a promotion. Fortunately, more and more corporations are focusing on workplace diversity, so occupational opportunities for immigrants have widened and improved significantly.

4. Housing Problems

Most local homeowners, like employers, are hesitant to lease their homes to foreigners. Stereotyping, rumors, and mere misconceptions have influenced their perception of people that were not born and brought up in the U.S. Unlike with natives, it is difficult to conduct background checks on immigrants or obtain any references.  As a result, most landlords prefer to work with local tenants, even if the immigrant demonstrates sounder character and dependability. Some landlords charge extra to take advantage of an immigrant who is having a hard time finding a place to live and settle in.

5. Home Sickness & Isolation

People who migrate to the U.S without a companion or family are prone to suffer from homesickness and isolation. They are already overwhelmed by the change of environment and lifestyle; above that, they don’t have a loved one nearby to share their worries and problems with. Making new friends and fitting in with people of another country is not very easy, so they become lonely. Immigrants have to leave their comfort zone and try to blend in to escape their longing for home and everything else they left behind.