Top 10 Most Common Myths about Immigration to the U.S.

Within the migration process, there are many myths about immigration. Now, which ones are true and which ones are false? Today, together with the experts at Urbina Immigration Law, we will analyze some of the most popular ones to clear your doubts.

False or dubious information may lead you to commit acts that would hinder your immigration process. Therefore, it is best to consult an immigration attorney if you have any doubts about your case. At Urbina Immigration Law we can help you. Talk to one of our attorneys and navigate your immigration journey legally and safely.

1: “Undocumented immigrants do not pay taxes”.

This is one of the most common immigration myths. Just as the mere fact of entering the country illegally is a crime, so is not paying taxes. In addition, having a tax evasion case may obstruct your path to citizenship, among other things.

Urbina Immigration Law Services in Georgia pexels pixabay 209224 - Urbina Immigration Law.
Don’t be misled by immigration myths, not paying taxes is a crime.

It is important to regularize your status as soon as possible, as every day you remain in the country illegally can aggravate your situation. Therefore, it is best to consult with an immigration attorney as soon as possible. Do not risk your future by facing these processes on your own. Talk to our professionals today and get the legal advice you need.

2: “Obtaining U.S. citizenship is very simple”.

Another of the most common immigration myths is that the naturalization process to obtain citizenship is simple. However, the reality is that the process can take up to 20 years, which can vary from case to case. And to this must be added the various categories of preference for family immigration.

In addition, an error in your application could lead to undesirable delays and legal problems. Therefore, it is best to seek an immigration attorney and not underestimate the complexity of the immigration process. At Urbina Immigration Law we can help you. Tell us about your case and take the first step towards U.S. citizenship.

3: “Living for 10 years in the United States grants immigration preference”.

These kinds of myths about immigration are the product of a misunderstanding of the misnamed 10-Year Law. It is true that having continuous presence in the country for at least 10 years is one of the requirements for cancellation of removal. cancellation of deportation. However, it must also meet the following conditions:

  • Maintain good moral character during the entire period of stay in the country.
  • Not having been convicted of a criminal offense.
  • Have family members who are citizens or permanent residents whose deportation would cause extreme hardship.

In addition, some offenses may be waived through an immigration waiver. However, this involves an additional process. Therefore, it is best to find an immigration attorney to assist you. At Urbina Immigration Law we can help you. Tell us about your case and secure your stay in the country you have chosen as your home.

4: “Citizenship and Green Card are the same”.

This is another of the most common immigration myths. While both are the goal of most migrants, there are several differences between green card and citizenship. To be a U.S. citizen means to be born in the United States or to have obtained U.S. citizenship through the naturalization process

The confusion between citizenship and residency is also a product of immigration myths.
The confusion between citizenship and residency is also a product of immigration myths.

On the other hand, permanent permanent residents (or green card holders) are foreigners who can legally reside and work in the country indefinitely. On the other hand, citizens enjoy all the rights granted by the Constitution. Instead, residents have limited privileges as mentioned above.

5: “Marrying a citizen grants permanent residence”.

This is another of the myths about immigration that is important to clarify. Marriage to a U.S. citizen does not immediately grant permanent residency. On the other hand, you will obtain a green card after two years of conditional residence. In addition, he or she must undergo an interview in which he or she must prove the authenticity of their relationship.

Getting married just to obtain benefits is an immigration fraud. Therefore, it is best to find a lawyer to help you prepare and gather the necessary evidence for your interview. At Urbina Immigration Law we can assist you. Contact us and share the American dream with the person you love.

6: “Living in an at-risk country entitles me to political asylum”.

No, living in a country at risk is not enough to claim political asylum. In fact, most of the requests are rejected. On the other hand, you must demonstrate the existence of a credible fear of persecution justified on one of these 5 grounds

  • Race
  • Religion
  • Nationality
  • Specific social group or political opinions

Even though it is humanitarian relief, the process for applying for asylum in the United States is extremely rigorous. Therefore, it is best to seek legal assistance to avoid problems that could jeopardize your application. At Urbina Immigration Law we can assist you. Tell us your case and take the first step towards a better life in the United States.

7: “Voluntary departure is the best option against deportation”.

This is one of the most dangerous immigration myths. The fact is that, although the voluntary departure is a good option to avoid the penalties of deportation, it is not always the best solution. This does not guarantee legal re-entry and, depending on the particularities of your case, there are certain penalties for voluntary departure

Therefore, it is important to have a lawyer help you analyze these issues before you apply. Do not risk your future by facing a deportation order on your own. At Urbina Immigration Law we can help you. Speak to an attorney today and get the quality legal help you deserve.

8: “USCIS is never wrong”.

This immigration myth is totally false. Immigration law is extremely complex and USCIS agents can be wrong in their interpretation. For this reason, it is extremely important to know the appeals process and to act quickly in the event of any unfavorable ruling. These are instances that could give your case a second chance.

USCIS infallibility is another immigration myth
USCIS infallibility is another immigration myth

For this reason, having an immigration attorney with you every step of the way is essential. He can advise you both to avoid inconveniences in your application and to identify possible errors in the USICIS ruling. Don’t let an obstacle put an end to your dream. Contact our specialists and let’s fight together for your rights.

9: “Having a visa ensures entry to the United States”.

While it is true that a visa gives you legal status in the United States, this is another immigration myth. This is because technically it is the immigration officer who interviews the traveler who makes the final decision. However, you should not attempt to enter the country without the proper visa, as this constitutes a crime.

For this reason, it is essential to consult with an immigration attorney who can advise you on which visa to apply for in your case. Do not risk deportation or inadmissibility by following the advice of immigration myths. At Urbina Immigration Law we can help you. Tell us your case and get the visa you need. 

10: “USCIS may request information by telephone”.

This is another one of the worst immigration myths. USCIS will never ask you for any information over the phone. Many lowlifes take advantage of the lack of knowledge of many migrants, dedicating themselves to immigration scams by telephone and other means.  For this reason, you must consult the official means of communication.

USCIS will never ask you for any information over the phone.
USCIS will never ask you for any information over the phone, this is another of the myths about immigration.

Conclusion

Misinformation is a major problem within the immigration community. False myths about immigration often lead to misunderstandings that lead migrants to commit illegal acts, fall into scams or abandon their immigration process. Therefore, it is extremely important to consult official sources and seek legal assistance.

An immigration lawyer can answer your questions and provide you with all the information you need. Don’t let scammers and immigration myths ruin your American dream. At Urbina Immigration Law we can help you. Contact us today and get the advice you need to avoid these false immigration myths.

Sources

USCIS – Permanent Residency Processes and Procedures

USCIS – Application for Suspension of Deportation or Cancellation of Removal

USCIS – Notice of Appeal Before the Board of Immigration Appeals

USA.gov – Learn about how the deportation process works

USCIS – Common Scams

USCIS – Immigration Scam Report

USCIS – Immigration Scam Avoidance Resource Center

Other Resources

How to obtain a Green Card in the United States – Updated Guide

How to apply for American residency by family petition, step by step

What is the difference between Green Card and citizenship?

10-Year Law in the USA: What is it about and how can it help me?

How to recognize and prevent scams in immigration procedures

Immigration fraud: know its implications

Tax Obligations for Immigrants in the USA: Everything you need to know

How to avoid deportation in the U.S.: the complete guide

What proofs of marriage should I submit to USCIS?

Conditional residency by marriage: what happens if I divorce before permanent residency?

How to Apply for Voluntary Departure: Steps, Benefits and Requirements

Penalty for Voluntary Departure: Advantages and Disadvantages

What is a Migratory Waiver and how should I apply for it?