Venezuela has gone through a tremendous transformation over the past few years. Political unrest is prevalent and the economic downturn has been severe. Basic foods and medicines are now hard to come by and work opportunities are disappearing quickly.
But the biggest obstacle to living a normal life may be the rampant violence throughout the country. Even a simple trip to the store can be a dangerous venture to most. For this reason alone, many Venezuelans are fleeing to the United States to seek safety for their families.
Most Venezuelans traveling here come with a tourist visa. This visa is only valid for up to 6 months. Once it expires then the Venezuelan tourist is illegally in the United States, becomes ‘out of status’ and is subject to deportation. Once deported, the immigrant could be banned from returning to the U.S. for many years.
So what can they do? One option to Venezuelan citizens may be to apply for asylum. To qualify for asylum, an immigrant must show that he/she has been harmed or threatened with harm in Venezuela and that they fear such harm if they return to their country. Further, they must show that this harm or threats are based on a preferred category such as religion, political opinion or social status.
With the political and cultural climate right now in Venezuela, its citizens may be eligible for asylum in the United States. Asylum would allow for them and their immediate family to legally live, play and work in the U.S. and can lead to them getting a Green Card and Citizenship.
I have represented several asylum seekers and suggest the time is now to consult with an attorney about your options. I can offer you a free consultation with no obligation. And if you decide to move forward with your application I can offer a significant discount on your attorney fees. To learn more, please contact immigration attorney and real estate broker, David Dowell, by phone/text at (407) 864-2265, or email at david@PanAmOrlando.com.
