A BRIEF HISTORY OF IMMIGRATION TO THE USA

The United States is often called a "nation of immigrants"—a title that reflects its long and complex history of welcoming people from across the globe. From the arrival of the Pilgrims in the early 1600s to the diverse waves of migrants in the 19th and 20th centuries, the U.S. has been a destination for those seeking freedom, opportunity, and a new beginning.

Between 1820 and 1920, more than 33 million immigrants entered the U.S., mostly from Europe. Cities like New York became melting pots of cultures, languages, and traditions. Ellis Island, opened in 1892, processed over 12 million immigrants before it closed in 1954.

In the 20th century, U.S. immigration policy evolved significantly. The Immigration and Nationality Act of 1965 abolished previous quotas based on nationality and opened the doors to immigrants from Asia, Africa, and Latin America. This created a more diverse immigration flow and set the foundation for today’s multicultural America.

Today, the United States is home to more than 45 million immigrants—the largest foreign-born population in the world. Immigrants contribute heavily to innovation, entrepreneurship, and cultural diversity.

OPPORTUNITIES AND IMMIGRATION PATHWAYS IN THE USA

The United States offers a wide variety of immigration opportunities for students, skilled workers, investors, families, and refugees. With one of the world’s most advanced economies and globally recognized institutions, the U.S. continues to attract people seeking a better life.

1. Study-to-Work Opportunities

International students can apply for F-1 visas and take advantage of OPT (Optional Practical Training) and STEM OPT extensions, allowing them to work in the U.S. after graduation.

2. Work-Based Immigration (Employment-Based Visas)

• H-1B Visa: For professionals in specialty occupations (e.g., IT, Engineering, Healthcare)
• L-1 Visa: For intra-company transfers
• O-1 Visa: For individuals with extraordinary abilities
• EB-1 to EB-5: Employment-based permanent residency categories, including investor immigration

3. Family-Based Immigration

U.S. citizens and permanent residents can sponsor immediate family members such as spouses, children, and parents through immigrant petitions.

4. Diversity Visa (Green Card Lottery)

The Diversity Immigrant Visa Program offers a limited number of permanent resident visas to individuals from countries with low rates of immigration to the U.S.

5. Investor Visa (EB-5)

Foreign investors who invest a minimum of $800,000 in targeted U.S. employment areas can apply for a green card under the EB-5 program.

6. Refugees and Asylum Seekers

The U.S. offers protection to individuals fleeing persecution due to race, religion, nationality, political opinion, or membership in a social group.

IMPORTANT LINKS

• U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS)
  https://www.uscis.gov
• U.S. Department of State – Bureau of Consular Affairs
  https://travel.state.gov
• Visa Bulletin (for Green Card Wait Times)
  https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/legal/visa-law0/visa-bulletin.html
• Study in the USA – Official Government Site
  https://educationusa.state.gov
• U.S. Embassy in Nepal
  https://np.usembassy.gov