Afifa Jahan Pushpo

For many people worldwide, settling in the United States represents the ultimate dream—a land of opportunities, stability, and prosperity. As an immigrant-based nation, the U.S. has long been a destination for skilled and unskilled workers seeking a better life. However, immigration policies, including the National Interest Waiver, have become key tools for the U.S. government to attract talented professionals from around the world.

The National Interest Waiver (NIW) allows skilled individuals to obtain a green card if their work significantly benefits the country. Beyond skilled professionals, America also provides pathways for refugees and asylum seekers fleeing war, persecution, and human rights abuses. Those who remain in the U.S. for at least a year can apply for asylum, though the process has become increasingly difficult under recent policy changes.

Despite legal pathways, many still attempt dangerous routes, such as the infamous donkey flight. This method involves entering the U.S. on a tourist visa and overstaying, hoping to find a way to legalize their status later. While this might seem like an escape from hardship, it often leads to a life filled with uncertainty, fear, and legal challenges.

Since taking office, President Trump has signed multiple executive orders targeting immigration. His administration has focused on mass deportations and stringent measures to curb illegal migration. ICE (Immigration and Customs Enforcement) has intensified operations, leading to fear and insecurity within immigrant communities. In cities like New York, where a significant Bangladeshi population resides, many live in constant fear of deportation, particularly those who lack proper documentation.

For those trying to immigrate legally, the wait can be exhausting. Family-sponsored visas can take anywhere from 14 to 17 years to process, leaving thousands in limbo. Many hopeful applicants now wonder whether their long-awaited visas will ever be approved, as policy changes continue to create uncertainty.

The Trump administration has also placed restrictions on asylum seekers, making the process more complex. The asylum system, once a refuge for those escaping dire circumstances, has become a bureaucratic maze with increased scrutiny and stricter requirements.

As the immigration landscape evolves, newcomers must navigate both opportunities and challenges. While the U.S. remains a land of promise, shifting policies demand careful consideration for those seeking to build a future there. Whether through skilled migration, family sponsorship, or asylum, the journey to American citizenship is no longer as straightforward as it once was.

For many, the dream remains alive, but the path is fraught with obstacles that require resilience, patience, and careful planning.

The writer is a student of Television, Film, Photograpy Department of Dhaka University.