Most shocking news surrounding immigration to America:
- Saying “I do” to a US citizen does not automatically make you a US citizen: that would be much too easy. Instead you have to apply (fill out a lot of paperwork, collect evidences that your marriages is real, and pay a hefty fee), wait and then apply again — it’s a multi-step process. Wait time: 3 to 5 years.
- The green card is not green. For those who may wonder what this card is, it is a form of ID that officially documents an alien’s permanent residence.
Well, glad I checked the web on this one: supposedly it’s now green again. But mine? Is not!
- If you are HIV-positive or have another ”communicable disease of public health significance” it will be very difficult for you to immigrate to the US. Minus a few rare exceptions, there is an immigration law that says HIV-infected people cannot get legal status in the U.S. because the government considers HIV to be a serious disease that is dangerous to the public health.
As part of my application process to obtain my green card, I had to submit myself to a complete physical exam (at my own cost of course!), with shots updates and so forth.
It was then that I was tested for tuberculosis; but because I had been vaccinated as a kid (a very common vaccine at the time in France), the test came back positive… and I was required to get a chest x-ray to prove I was not developing the disease.
Of course, to make matters easier I was pregnant at the time of the application and I had to wait until after my baby was born to have the x-ray done… The hoops I jumped through for the sake of USCIS (U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services).
- If you’ve lived in Europe for more than 5 years since 1980, you are not eligible to donate your blood in the US. It’s true, I tried when I first arrived to the US and got turned down. Quoting the Red Cross’ web site:
Persons who have spent long periods of time in countries where “mad cow disease” is found are not eligible to donate. This requirement is related to concerns about variant Creutzfeld Jacob Disease
You want to know what’s funny? (Oh, yes, you do!) While my European blood is not good enough, it’s okay for me to have children with my American husband. Nobody seems to question how much of a burden this might be to the US economy, and of course public health, if the CJD disease poses such a threat. This matter has always fascinated me!
So tell me, did you learn anything? What’s your experience living abroad and dealing with special rules for “aliens like you”?
It's so good to have you back! Share your thoughts, I LOVE comments!
My parents immigrated here in the late 70s. During those times, the USA had military bases in the Philippines and were recruiting Filipinos to join their military. My father joined and that’s how my family was able to come to America. Many Filipinos were able to come to the US due to the military or nursing shortage.
MamaOnDaGo recently posted…My 3 Day Weekend
That’s a very good point to make, very few people realize that many aliens have made this sacrifice so they could pursue the American Dream. I guess when there’s a need, America finds a way. Thanks for your contribution!
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Now, I didn’t know about the blood thing!
Thanks, girl!
But so true there are many misconceptions out there that once you’re in the States you are living that American dreams and everything will be easier for you. Not!
Gotta love being an alien doesn’t it? We had a problem with my medical forms when filing for my Adjustment of Status and as a result we got an RFE. Sucks big time hahaha.
Love this post so much that I’m drafting a post inspired by this one!
Maureen recently posted…I Dream Of These&8230
I’m very happy to inspire you! And thanks for linking back my dear! That was a very good post, in fact I need to head over again and comment — I find it tricky to comment on my phone…
Despite feeling like home here now, I think parts of me will remain forever alien! I’m sure you feel the same way too about your Americanized side.
I tried to give blood once too. I was in shock when they told me I couldn’t because of the mad cow disease. It sounded so ridiculous I thought they were joking!
After going through all the steps to obtain my green card and then getting my citizenship in the US, I decided to marry a Costa Rican (it would have never occurred to me that I would move again) and am now starting all over again in my new country. It’s really not much easier here than it was there. I guess immigration services is the same no matter where you are.
Mel recently posted…While you wait…
Hi Mel, so good to have you here!
Maybe the Costa Rican authorities will be happy to take your blood?
Wow, you like hard work I suppose. This immigration stuff is such a pain, kudos to you for starting over twice! I’m sure Mr. Mel is worth it
When are we going to see more 2-wheel action on your blog? It sounds like so much fun from what I’ve read so far!