Living In USA

After September 11, 2001, the United States began a series of initiatives intended to enhance the security of our borders. Fierce debate continues to rage about these initiatives, with some people arguing that the government has not gone far enough and that our borders are still too porous. Others have begun to complain that at least some of these initiatives are too cumbersome and just plain unwelcoming. They argue that new policies provide more hassles than real security, and that the cost to the United States — in reduced tourism, trade, and fewer foreign students and scholars coming to the U.S. — will hurt us in ways that far exceed any real benefits. In any event, traveling to the United States has become more complicated in recent years. Changes in immigration and customs regulations may result in much longer processing times for visas, work permits, shipment of your belongings, and so on. It cannot be emphasized enough that advance planning is needed. It is imperative to understand as much of the bureaucracy as possible before you leave your country. Entering with the wrong visa type can mean months of frustrating delays and unnecessary (not to mention expensive) trips back home.