The Hidden Costs of Love: Navigating the Complexities of Immigration
My husband’s journey to the United States began when he was just 10 years old, fleeing economic hardship in Mexico with his family. Years later, when we met, the landscape of immigration policies was vastly different. Without the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program, our future together seemed uncertain.
A Life Built Together
As we crafted a life together, DACA became a beacon of hope, allowing my partner to work and contribute to our shared goals. His passion for my profession and success was unwavering, and I attribute much of my growth to his support. However, our comfort was short-lived. The 2016 presidential election results brought a harsh reality: a person who had vilified Mexico and its people was now in power.
The Urgency of Marriage
Faced with the threat of DACA’s rescission, we could no longer wait for a clear path to citizenship. We made the difficult decision to get married, despite my initial reservations as a feminist. However, the financial implications of this choice were far from trivial.
Debunking Misconceptions
Many assume that marrying a U.S. citizen solves the problem of undocumented status. Unfortunately, the process is arduous and costly. Since my partner entered the country without vetting as a child, we had to navigate a complex web of paperwork, petitions, and fees.
The Financial Burden
Our journey entailed finding a lawyer to guide us through the process. First, I had to sponsor him for a green card, which came with a penalty for illegal entry – a 10-year ban from re-entering the country. To avoid this, we petitioned for an exemption, gathering letters from friends and family, submitting paperwork, and writing checks for processing fees and lawyer retainers. The total cost? A staggering $11,040.
Breaking Down the Costs
- DACA paperwork filing fees: $380 x 3 = $1,140
- Initial lawyer retainment fees: $2,000
- Green Card application fee: $300
- Lawyer retainer fee for the final petition: $7,000
- Petition filing fees: $300 x 2 = $600
- Total cost: $11,040
A Call to Action
While I respect the diverse perspectives on immigration, I believe that as a citizen, I should have the right to be with the person I choose. These fees are a small price to pay for our family’s unity. It’s time for respectful discussions and productive policy decisions. With education and understanding, we can work towards a brighter future for all.
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