HIV Positive Foreigners Now Allowed to apply for Green Cards in U.S.
Posted on Nov 28, 2009 1:09pm PST
Earlier in November, the federal government declared that foreigners who had tested positive for HIV would now be allowed to visit the country and to apply for green cards. Prior to this declaration, foreigners with HIV were not allowed to have such freedoms as a bar had been in existence for nearly two decades.
One person who was thrilled by the news was a HIV researcher and physician who lives in Miami, Florida. She said that while the declaration is a step forward, it, "is not the end of the story." She added, "What about all the lives that the HIV travel and immigration ban ruined?"
According to several immigration lawyers in the state of
California and also throughout the country, the immigration ban has left families separated, caused foreigners to forgo HIV testing and give up medication and also forced talented workers to return to their native countries instead of maintaining their employment in the U.S.
Since the ban was lifted, many immigration attorneys are receiving phone calls and email from HIV positive foreigners. These individuals now have renewed hope and are planning to apply for green cards. The ban is expected to be lifted officially on January 4, 2010.
Click here to find an immigration lawyer who can help you apply for a green card or visa!