Immigrant Stories

[Turbulent_Dragonfly]

Considering the fact that there are some new members here, I just want to say one thing: I have been in this country for close to 20 years and there has not been a single immigration bill that has passed (both chambers and signed by President into law). In fact, the last Immigration bill that was passed was in 1986 - Immigration Reform and Control Act, signed into law by Reagan.

When there is some frenetic activity going on like what's happening with S386, people like to wade in and think, "Wow, at least something is going to happen this time!". It never happens, the backlogs have been building for over a decade now like slow moving lava and if you look to legislation being passed to alleviate those, you will be sorely disappointed. Though antiquated and unfair from a merit standpoint considering you want to attract the best and brightest, EB immigration works for the majority of countries. This is not a pessimistic view, just a realistic one. There is not enough will on both sides to move the needle and strike a compromise. Usually you need both chambers and the WH to make anything happen (like the ACA for example). Absent that, things will just keep getting stalled because neither side wants to compromise on their ideologies and their core base.

From my standpoint, I am not going to waste any time in watching or following the Congress floor proceedings. In turbulent times like this, when we are mostly cut off from the outside world and friends, spend as much time with your family. Catch up with your kids; many of us where the parents are both full time workers are only used to seeing our kids during nights and weekends. Take this opportunity to spend more time with them and listen to their silly musings. For the most part, they will move away from our lives when they go to college, so cherish these times. The immigration fights are going to drag for a long time unfortunately.

[idliman]

Considering the fact that there are some new members here, I just want to say one thing: I have been in this country for close to 20 years and there has not been a single immigration bill that has passed (both chambers and signed by President into law). In fact, the last Immigration bill that was passed was in 1986 - Immigration Reform and Control Act, signed into law by Reagan.

When there is some frenetic activity going on like what's happening with S386, people like to wade in and think, "Wow, at least something is going to happen this time!". It never happens, the backlogs have been building for over a decade now like slow moving lava and if you look to legislation being passed to alleviate those, you will be sorely disappointed. Though antiquated and unfair from a merit standpoint considering you want to attract the best and brightest, EB immigration works for the majority of countries. This is not a pessimistic view, just a realistic one. There is not enough will on both sides to move the needle and strike a compromise. Usually you need both chambers and the WH to make anything happen (like the ACA for example). Absent that, things will just keep getting stalled because neither side wants to compromise on their ideologies and their core base.

From my standpoint, I am not going to waste any time in watching or following the Congress floor proceedings. In turbulent times like this, when we are mostly cut off from the outside world and friends, spend as much time with your family. Catch up with your kids; many of us where the parents are both full time workers are only used to seeing our kids during nights and weekends. Take this opportunity to spend more time with them and listen to their silly musings. For the most part, they will move away from our lives when they go to college, so cherish these times. The immigration fights are going to drag for a long time unfortunately.
I came to this country on F1 visa in July 2001 (two months before 9/11). So soon I will be reaching the 20 year mark. For people who are new here, it easy to get carried away on new immigration legislation as explained by Turbulent_Dragonfly. I have advised numerous co-workers and friends on the immigration process. They all got their GC's, Citizenship's and eventually left the company. I ended up being the last man standing on H1B in our part of company (covering a few locations). When I meet some ex co-workers from other countries, they inquire about my GC status and they say that it is unbelievable that you are still waiting. Other than the first PERM that was rejected on a technicality, I don't think I have made any blunders on immigration. Philosophically thinking, I sometimes wonder whether I should have taken up the teaching position in India when a professors team visited me in 2008 or so (immediately after my graduation and joining the industry job). Or maybe stayed in the University for a post-doc, more publications and EB1A route. I thought practical experience was better at that time. Still, I am where I am. Maybe God has better plans for all of us. Good luck everyone. Stay strong.

[mcmilers]

Happy Anniversary @idliman. I came in July 2001 too. Went to UT Arlington.

[rabp77]

I came to this country on F1 visa in July 2001 (two months before 9/11). So soon I will be reaching the 20 year mark. For people who are new here, it easy to get carried away on new immigration legislation as explained by Turbulent_Dragonfly. I have advised numerous co-workers and friends on the immigration process. They all got their GC's, Citizenship's and eventually left the company. I ended up being the last man standing on H1B in our part of company (covering a few locations). When I meet some ex co-workers from other countries, they inquire about my GC status and they say that it is unbelievable that you are still waiting. Other than the first PERM that was rejected on a technicality, I don't think I have made any blunders on immigration. Philosophically thinking, I sometimes wonder whether I should have taken up the teaching position in India when a professors team visited me in 2008 or so (immediately after my graduation and joining the industry job). Or maybe stayed in the University for a post-doc, more publications and EB1A route. I thought practical experience was better at that time. Still, I am where I am. Maybe God has better plans for all of us. Good luck everyone. Stay strong.

One thing that cannot be taken from you is the great experience of coming here and having the immigrant student experience. Those who come as student with a suitcase have a very different immersion experience.

Wishing you the best, that you would get freedom soon. You are close, i think there may be a benefit in downgrading, as you would already be current on eb3

[kash80]

I came to this country on F1 visa in July 2001 (two months before 9/11). So soon I will be reaching the 20 year mark. For people who are new here, it easy to get carried away on new immigration legislation as explained by Turbulent_Dragonfly. I have advised numerous co-workers and friends on the immigration process. They all got their GC's, Citizenship's and eventually left the company. I ended up being the last man standing on H1B in our part of company (covering a few locations). When I meet some ex co-workers from other countries, they inquire about my GC status and they say that it is unbelievable that you are still waiting. Other than the first PERM that was rejected on a technicality, I don't think I have made any blunders on immigration. Philosophically thinking, I sometimes wonder whether I should have taken up the teaching position in India when a professors team visited me in 2008 or so (immediately after my graduation and joining the industry job). Or maybe stayed in the University for a post-doc, more publications and EB1A route. I thought practical experience was better at that time. Still, I am where I am. Maybe God has better plans for all of us. Good luck everyone. Stay strong.

Though not quite there to the 20 year mark, I can definitely empathize with you. Came here on F1 in December 2002, been on H1 since '05. Stupidly did not apply for GC with my first employer, suffering because of that.

[qesehmk]

I came to this country on F1 visa in July 2001 (two months before 9/11). So soon I will be reaching the 20 year mark. For people who are new here, it easy to get carried away on new immigration legislation as explained by Turbulent_Dragonfly. I have advised numerous co-workers and friends on the immigration process. They all got their GC's, Citizenship's and eventually left the company. I ended up being the last man standing on H1B in our part of company (covering a few locations). When I meet some ex co-workers from other countries, they inquire about my GC status and they say that it is unbelievable that you are still waiting. Other than the first PERM that was rejected on a technicality, I don't think I have made any blunders on immigration. Philosophically thinking, I sometimes wonder whether I should have taken up the teaching position in India when a professors team visited me in 2008 or so (immediately after my graduation and joining the industry job). Or maybe stayed in the University for a post-doc, more publications and EB1A route. I thought practical experience was better at that time. Still, I am where I am. Maybe God has better plans for all of us. Good luck everyone. Stay strong.
idli, you post hit me because I came to US just a year before you. I just want to say to you and others who are here for 20 years or so that whichever choice one makes is always the right choice. Despite this rigged game against Indians, US is a great country you will be proud of and your chidren will flourish. As much as I love India, I feel sad about how things have gone in India. As NRIs if we espouse freedom, equality and justice in US, then we should espouse those same values back home as well. I will leave Indian politics out. But just rest assured, eventually you and your family will be happy. Godspeed to your GC.

[EB22010Dec]

idli, you post hit me because I came to US just a year before you. I just want to say to you and others who are here for 20 years or so that whichever choice one makes is always the right choice. Despite this rigged game against Indians, US is a great country you will be proud of and your children will flourish. As much as I love India, I feel sad about how things have gone in India. As NRIs if we espouse freedom, equality and justice in US, then we should espouse those same values back home as well. I will leave Indian politics out. But just rest assured, eventually you and your family will be happy. Godspeed to your GC.

I came to the US back in 2003 as a student. Worked for companies within Fortune 50, Big5, FANG buckets. 5 Companies applied green card for me thus far, and I have a gut feeling at-least one more will do it.
I think of GC/H1B as paperwork we have to do along the way for the privilege of making 100's of thousands of Dollars.
I keep chugging along, changing jobs and re-applying GCs and H1Bs.

My advice to others like me, DO NOT put your career on hold. I have friends who have waited 10 years at the same desi consulting company with the fear of reapplying for GC.
One thing they all realized is that, due to the extremely long wait, their skills eventually become very redundant and market value shrinks.

I am writing this here as I feel like it might inspire others to follow my path.

[Turbulent_Dragonfly]

I came back in 2003, also as a student, worked for companies with in Fortune 50, Big5, FANG buckets. 5 Companies applied green card for me thus far, and I have a gut feeling at-least one more will do it.
I think of GC/H1B as paperwork we have to do along the way for privilege of making 100's of thousands of Dollars.
I keep chugging along, changing jobs and re-applying GCs and H1Bs.

My advise to others like me, DO NOT put your career on hold. I have friends who waited 10 years at the same desi consulting company with the fear of reapplying for GC.
One thing they all realized is that, due to the extremely long wait, their skills eventually become very redundant and market value shrinks.

Writing this here as I feel like it might inspire others to follow my path.

Exactly my sentiments too: Don't put things on hold like buying a nicer vehicle, a home or making other investments just because you don't have a GC. This is the prime of your life. Very true especially of home ownership. I have several of my friends who have been stuck like me for the past 10 yrs in backlogs who have refused to buy a home and have sent so much money down the drain in rent and have regrets now. Some have made real estate investments in India and can't use them because they never go there much. Honestly they have mentioned how much they have feel they have deprived their children of living in their own living space which we all look forward to after living in crowded conditions back in India our entire life there.

[qesehmk]

Exactly my sentiments too: Don't put things on hold like buying a nicer vehicle, a home or making other investments just because you don't have a GC. This is the prime of your life. Very true especially of home ownership. I have several of my friends who have been stuck like me for the past 10 yrs in backlogs who have refused to buy a home and have sent so much money down the drain in rent and have regrets now. Some have made real estate investments in India and can't use them because they never go there much. Honestly they have mentioned how much they have feel they have deprived their children of living in their own living space which we all look forward to after living in crowded conditions back in India our entire life there.
Totally echo that. Two things that kids enjoy the most - a home of their own and a Dog. I think not having AC21 makes it tough to own a house. So perhaps rent it (if financially viable).

[android09]

Exactly my sentiments too: Don't put things on hold like buying a nicer vehicle, a home or making other investments just because you don't have a GC. This is the prime of your life. Very true especially of home ownership. I have several of my friends who have been stuck like me for the past 10 yrs in backlogs who have refused to buy a home and have sent so much money down the drain in rent and have regrets now. Some have made real estate investments in India and can't use them because they never go there much. Honestly they have mentioned how much they have feel they have deprived their children of living in their own living space which we all look forward to after living in crowded conditions back in India our entire life there.

I would second that and say don't worry about what you don't have but rather be happy about what you do have. If you have your wife/husband/partner, kids, parents...you are extremely lucky. If you and your family are in good health, have a roof over your head and have a choice in what food you'd like to eat at any given time, then you are among the top 5% lucky persons on the planet. If you have a job, a steady source of income, savings and have had opportunities for education, professional changes etc and have a career instead of a job then in Toto combination, you are perhaps the luckiest person on the planet.

[EB22010Dec]

Totally echo that. Two things that kids enjoy the most - a home of their own and a Dog. I think not having AC21 makes it tough to own a house. So perhaps rent it (if financially viable).

AC21 and homeownership are totally independent of each other. There are many ways in which you can protect your investment in case you lose your Visa.

Do your due diligence, but remember, next year, your kids will be one year older and one year closer to leaving your house.

[qesehmk]

AC21 and homeownership are totally independent of each other. There are many ways in which you can protect your investment in case you lose your Visa.

Do your due diligence, but remember, next year, your kids will be one year older and one year closer to leaving your house.

If people can protect the downside, the joy of homeownership particularly for kids is priceless.

[EB32010]

Though not quite there to the 20 year mark, I can definitely empathize with you. Came here on F1 in December 2002, been on H1 since '05. Stupidly did not apply for GC with my first employer, suffering because of that.

Are you me in disguise? :). Landed here in Dec 31,2000 as student and here since. I have no complaints. I had a great life so far here in US.

[smuggymba]

Totally echo that. Two things that kids enjoy the most - a home of their own and a Dog. I think not having AC21 makes it tough to own a house. So perhaps rent it (if financially viable).

Exactly, live life and enjoy don't just trudge along. Actually I followed the same principle in India too.

Came in 2005 on H1-B (Took the GRE and got a great score but didn't get any scholarship so thought of going to US on job and doing an MBA later). Jumped ship in 3 years and moved to a Big4 consulting firm, an energy company and then a texas based global company where I still am. Bought my dream car in 2010 (when I was on H1-B) and bought a house in 2012 (even before the dates moved to May 2010 and EAD came along). So far other than the current RFE on EAD and another RFE many years back on wife's F1, things have been ok but it's still a pain to travel (it used to be once a month before covid) and come back to secondary processing every time. An immigration officer at SFO secondary told me they should have a chair for me with my name on it since I have so many AP stamps on the passport :)

[qesehmk]

Exactly, live life and enjoy don't just trudge along. Actually I followed the same principle in India too.

Came in 2005 on H1-B (Took the GRE and got a great score but didn't get any scholarship so thought of going to US on job and doing an MBA later). Jumped ship in 3 years and moved to a Big4 consulting firm, an energy company and then a texas based global company where I still am. Bought my dream car in 2010 (when I was on H1-B) and bought a house in 2012 (even before the dates moved to May 2010 and EAD came along). So far other than the current RFE on EAD and another RFE many years back on wife's F1, things have been ok but it's still a pain to travel (it used to be once a month before covid) and come back to secondary processing every time. An immigration officer at SFO secondary told me they should have a chair for me with my name on it since I have so many AP stamps on the passport :)

LoL!! I gotta ask you what is your dream car?

Mine back then was a black BMW and had decided to buy it once I become a director - which I did in 2008. But then when I did I had no desire to buy my dream car. I guess I am just a cheap bastard :o

[Turbulent_Dragonfly]

Ha ha! My dream car was a Porsche Boxter. So I drive a Prius and a Santa Fe Sport now. Lol!

[alpha0]

Exactly, live life and enjoy don't just trudge along. Actually I followed the same principle in India too.

Came in 2005 on H1-B (Took the GRE and got a great score but didn't get any scholarship so thought of going to US on job and doing an MBA later). Jumped ship in 3 years and moved to a Big4 consulting firm, an energy company and then a texas based global company where I still am. Bought my dream car in 2010 (when I was on H1-B) and bought a house in 2012 (even before the dates moved to May 2010 and EAD came along). So far other than the current RFE on EAD and another RFE many years back on wife's F1, things have been ok but it's still a pain to travel (it used to be once a month before covid) and come back to secondary processing every time. An immigration officer at SFO secondary told me they should have a chair for me with my name on it since I have so many AP stamps on the passport :)

I finished my masters in 2005..joined big 4..lost job during market crash..found a job in fin tech...started GC in 2009..was expecting to get it in 3-4 years..still waiting..i rented a nice townhome so that my kid does not miss the house...

[kumareb2]

My story .... Came here in 2005 , took full time in 2007 on the condition that they start my GC process after one year of my employment start date. The first round of layoffs (due to 2008/2009 recession) in my company (in the same group) happened on the same day my PERM petition was scheduled to be filed, and HR stopped my application saying that they can''t file my PERM petition due to layoffs, and i have to wait another 6 months. since then we had layoffs every quarter, and my petition was delayed as usual, and finally i got my chance in 2009 December. couple of my colleagues filed their petition in 2008(on the same day as they are in another group), got their GC/citizen ship. just one day made all the difference :-( i don't want to sound pessimist, but life is never fair ..Thanks for the good words folks, Q,Turbulent_Dragonfly ,eb32010,android09...

[GCdreamz]

Don't wait for GC to buy home. My idea is - Buy Home when you have 5% for down payment and keep paying EMI like you do Rent payment. In worst case, sell or do foreclosure if you cant sell. Foreclosure will ding you credit history but it is not Criminal thing to do (Be honest on Loan application). In best case, you will enjoy being homeowner and build equity with appraisal/payments. Consider housing market conditions but Don't wait for GC. When buying home, we plan on living in the home forever and don't plan on selling but Americans buy home when they have money for down payment, upgrade when family is bigger and downgrade when kids go to college. Plan on buying home if you have money for downpayment. Not an advice but my thoughts.

[smuggymba]

LoL!! I gotta ask you what is your dream car?

Mine back then was a black BMW and had decided to buy it once I become a director - which I did in 2008. But then when I did I had no desire to buy my dream car. I guess I am just a cheap bastard :o

In India I was obsessed with BMW X5 so as soon as I had the money, I got a black brand new BMW X5 (with quite a few options) and paid 59K for it in 2010. It was a very happy drive back home and all of my friends in US/India (and colleagues here in US) were jealous LOL. I still have it and love it everyday. I plan to keep it and run it to the ground (because of my travels it has only 60K on it)

After that I also bought a 2016 Audi A4 Quattro but sold it after 3.5 years to buy a bigger Infiniti since we wanted more than a 5 seater.

My best friend from college just bought a home (Dec 2010 PD, still on H1-B) i.e. 8 years after I did. His kids now say why the heck didn't you buy a house earlier. So, yes, while this GC journey will keep you pinned down, make the most of it.

[AceMan]

Totally echo that. Two things that kids enjoy the most - a home of their own and a Dog. I think not having AC21 makes it tough to own a house. So perhaps rent it (if financially viable).

I loved dogs, however my spouse and son are just too scared of dogs. I have tried taking my son to petting zoo, but he just won’t pet them.
Anyways he is getting into his teens, i was telling him a St. Bernard among dogs is akin to a Ferrari in cars 😊. It can attract lot of attention from girls.
Siberian Husky can be a Lamborghini.

[mrperfect]

I came to this country on F1 visa in July 2001 (two months before 9/11). So soon I will be reaching the 20 year mark. For people who are new here, it easy to get carried away on new immigration legislation as explained by Turbulent_Dragonfly. I have advised numerous co-workers and friends on the immigration process. They all got their GC's, Citizenship's and eventually left the company. I ended up being the last man standing on H1B in our part of company (covering a few locations). When I meet some ex co-workers from other countries, they inquire about my GC status and they say that it is unbelievable that you are still waiting. Other than the first PERM that was rejected on a technicality, I don't think I have made any blunders on immigration. Philosophically thinking, I sometimes wonder whether I should have taken up the teaching position in India when a professors team visited me in 2008 or so (immediately after my graduation and joining the industry job). Or maybe stayed in the University for a post-doc, more publications and EB1A route. I thought practical experience was better at that time. Still, I am where I am. Maybe God has better plans for all of us. Good luck everyone. Stay strong.



Same Here idliman .. Yesterday (07/23) was my 19 year anniversary stepping into this country.. Made a tough decision leaving a company in 2006 that cancelled my pending I-140 application with an approved PERM.. can't use it .. and got stuck with 2009 PD.. 5th time renewing my EAD... fingers crossed hoping it would be last time..

[qesehmk]

while this GC journey will keep you pinned down, make the most of it.
That's the bottom line!

[Zenzone]

LoL!! I gotta ask you what is your dream car?

Mine back then was a black BMW and had decided to buy it once I become a director - which I did in 2008. But then when I did I had no desire to buy my dream car. I guess I am just a cheap bastard :o

I like this discussion better than Immi matters ;). My fav. used to be a BMW too used to own a series of those back in the times (all shades of blue especially that Monaco Blue). Now back to vans and large SUVs. My latest love is a cool pick-up something like a GMC Canyon or a Sierra (blame it on my mid-life crisis).

[Zenzone]

I came to this country on F1 visa in July 2001 (two months before 9/11). So soon I will be reaching the 20 year mark. For people who are new here, it easy to get carried away on new immigration legislation as explained by Turbulent_Dragonfly. I have advised numerous co-workers and friends on the immigration process. They all got their GC's, Citizenship's and eventually left the company. I ended up being the last man standing on H1B in our part of company (covering a few locations). When I meet some ex co-workers from other countries, they inquire about my GC status and they say that it is unbelievable that you are still waiting. Other than the first PERM that was rejected on a technicality, I don't think I have made any blunders on immigration. Philosophically thinking, I sometimes wonder whether I should have taken up the teaching position in India when a professors team visited me in 2008 or so (immediately after my graduation and joining the industry job). Or maybe stayed in the University for a post-doc, more publications and EB1A route. I thought practical experience was better at that time. Still, I am where I am. Maybe God has better plans for all of us. Good luck everyone. Stay strong.

Good luck my friend.

[qesehmk]

I loved dogs, however my spouse and son are just too scared of dogs. I have tried taking my son to petting zoo, but he just won’t pet them.
Anyways he is getting into his teens, i was telling him a St. Bernard among dogs is akin to a Ferrari in cars . It can attract lot of attention from girls.
Siberian Husky can be a Lamborghini.
Even I was fearful of dogs. But believe me it goes away very quickly. They are just like babies. Lots of work but totally worth it. Perhaps you can start with a puppy 2 months old.

I was not at all interested in getting a dog. Two years back my older kid blackmailed me by saying he will leave for college soon ... and my daughter made that "daughter face". So I yielded. But I am very happy with the decision. Huskies are majestic. Labs are great too. Ours is a lab pit mix.

[srisri]

I didn’t know many people here are like me, who are here since 2001 and waiting for green card. I have not applied for green card in the hope to go back and had to change my mind In my final year of H1. My advice to all on H1-Bs and new comers buy a home as soon as you’re ready and not hold off due to GC.

Not running behind GC initially helped me take up jobs that I liked and am happy of my career progression. I feel the pinch now as I’m not able to accept interesting opportunities in new technologies. Had to forego a promotion in 2016 as the role required technologies not in my perm and thinking I’ll be greened in couple of years, had I known then it would take this long I would have accepted the promotion and restarted my GC process.

[skpanda]

Since everyone is sharing their history... here goes mine...

Being lower middle class / borderline poor, I always dreamt of coming out of the financial shit hole since childhood. Always topped the exams. Always state top 3 or better in board exams/competitive exams. Dreamt even bigger to come to US. Great GRE (2260) score.. great admissions in good Us in US (UMass for my course was ranked 9th in those days) . My mom sold the last piece of jewellery she had (her mangalasutra) to pay for the US university application fees. However this was around 9/11 and no scholarships! Could not afford to come to US.

Was going to Germany (free education - only living costs) for MS in Digital Communications that is when by chance I was offered a good paying job (3.65 LPA for a fresher was huge in those days) in India by a US MNC. Decided to take the job. Worked my ass off 18hx7dx365. Recognized by the company as a whole, Global level awards...H1B applied. Landed in US in 2005.

Did not care / know much about GC process. Employer wanted to file GC in 2006, I procrastinated. Missed July 2007 fiasco. Changed employers several times and finally applied for GC in 2010 with a PD of Dec 2010.

However I never really compromised with quality of life. Below is what I count as my blessings.

1. Was able to lift my entire family out of poverty.
2. Sponsored education of my nephews and nieces.
3. Bought homes for family members in India.
4. Bought my first car in 2006. Changed car every few years. Now I have Honda Odyssey (for family) and Hyundai Santa Fe - both with loaded features. My dream car is BMW but like Q i am cheap (Exact same story.. wanted to buy it when I become a Director.. but when I did become a Director did not buy it)!
5. Bought my First home in 2010. My friends were like.. are you crazy.. its risky blah blah...
6. Married a beautiful and accomplished Girl. Inspite of being from privileged background she has perfectly blended in my life, values, culture.
7. Bought a larger home in 2012 with all privileges a home can offer. Enjoy every bit of it with family!
8. 2 Beautiful kids (Boy and Girl) who give us immense joy.
9. Multiple investment homes in US fetching sizable rent.
10. Doing a job that I like..in a top company... promoted multiple times.. now in a Senior management position.

However, I am still on H1B. No regrets or complaints in life though! I joke sometimes that before I get GC, my child will be able to sponsor for Parent GC.. if US does not ban that too!!

Cheers guys! Enjoy your life!

[kumareb2]

wow..good story, a true american dream it seems

[kumareb2]

Since everyone is sharing their history... here goes mine...

Being lower middle class / borerline poor, I always dreamt of coming out of the financial shit hole since childhood. Always topped the exams. Always state top 3 or better in board exams/competitive exams. Dreamt even bigger to come to US. Great GRE (2260) score.. great admissions in good Us in US (UMass for my course was ranked 9th in those days) . However this was around 9/11 and no scholarships! Could not afford to come to US.

Was going to Germany for MS in Digital Communications that is when by chance i was offered a good paying job in India by a US MNC. Decided to take the job. Worked my ass off 18hx7dx365. Recognized by the company as a whole, H1B applied. Landed in US in 2005.

Did not care / know much about GC process. Employer wanted to file GC in 2006, I procrastinated. Missed July 2007 fiasco. Changed employers several times and finally applied for GC in 2010 with a PD of Dec 2010.

However I never really compromised with quality of life. Below is what I count as my blessings.

1. Was able to lift my entire family out of poverty.
2. Sponsored education of my nephews and nieces.
3. Brought homes for family members in India.
4. Brought my first car in 2006. Changed car every few years. Now I have Honda Odyssey (for family) and Hyundai Santa Fe - both with loaded features. My dream car is BMW but like Q i am cheap (Exact same story.. wanted to by it when I become a Director.. but when I did become a Director did not buy it)!
5. Brought my First home in 2010. My friends were like.. are you crazy.. its risky blah blah...
6. Married a beautiful and accomplished Girl. Inspite of being from privileged background she has perfectly blended in my life, values, culture.
7. Brought a larger home in 2012 with all privileges a home can offer.
8. 2 Beautiful kids (Boy and Girl) who give us immense joy.
9. Multiple investment homes in US fetching sizable rent.
10. Doing a job that I like.. promoted multiple times.. now in a Senior management position.

However, I am still on H1B. No regrets or complaints in life though! I joke sometimes that before I get GC, my child will be able to sponsor for Parent GC.. if US does not ban that too!!

Cheers guys! Enjoy your life!

wow.., a true american dream it seems

[lville]

My Story : Came here on Jan 10, 2003. Filed H1 in 2005, filed GC on May 22, 2009. Finally my date is current and Interview on July 27, 2020. I really hope it goes smooth and I have my card in hand soon. We will wait and see, I'm nervous since it's been such a long time.

[skpanda]

My Story : Came here on Jan 10, 2003. Filed H1 in 2005, filed GC on May 22, 2009. Finally my date is current and Interview on July 27, 2020. I really hope it goes smooth and I have my card in hand soon. We will wait and see, I'm nervous since it's been such a long time.



All the best.. finally almost free...cheers!

[redtogreen]

My Story : Came here on Jan 10, 2003. Filed H1 in 2005, filed GC on May 22, 2009. Finally my date is current and Interview on July 27, 2020. I really hope it goes smooth and I have my card in hand soon. We will wait and see, I'm nervous since it's been such a long time.

All the very best. Do update on how it goes. Cheers!

[AceMan]

Since everyone is sharing their history... here goes mine...

Being lower middle class / borerline poor, I always dreamt of coming out of the financial shit hole since childhood. Always topped the exams. Always state top 3 or better in board exams/competitive exams. Dreamt even bigger to come to US. Great GRE (2260) score.. great admissions in good Us in US (UMass for my course was ranked 9th in those days) . However this was around 9/11 and no scholarships! Could not afford to come to US.

Was going to Germany for MS in Digital Communications that is when by chance i was offered a good paying job in India by a US MNC. Decided to take the job. Worked my ass off 18hx7dx365. Recognized by the company as a whole, H1B applied. Landed in US in 2005.

Did not care / know much about GC process. Employer wanted to file GC in 2006, I procrastinated. Missed July 2007 fiasco. Changed employers several times and finally applied for GC in 2010 with a PD of Dec 2010.

However I never really compromised with quality of life. Below is what I count as my blessings.

1. Was able to lift my entire family out of poverty.
2. Sponsored education of my nephews and nieces.
3. Brought homes for family members in India.
4. Brought my first car in 2006. Changed car every few years. Now I have Honda Odyssey (for family) and Hyundai Santa Fe - both with loaded features. My dream car is BMW but like Q i am cheap (Exact same story.. wanted to by it when I become a Director.. but when I did become a Director did not buy it)!
5. Brought my First home in 2010. My friends were like.. are you crazy.. its risky blah blah...
6. Married a beautiful and accomplished Girl. Inspite of being from privileged background she has perfectly blended in my life, values, culture.
7. Brought a larger home in 2012 with all privileges a home can offer.
8. 2 Beautiful kids (Boy and Girl) who give us immense joy.
9. Multiple investment homes in US fetching sizable rent.
10. Doing a job that I like.. promoted multiple times.. now in a Senior management position.

However, I am still on H1B. No regrets or complaints in life though! I joke sometimes that before I get GC, my child will be able to sponsor for Parent GC.. if US does not ban that too!!

Cheers guys! Enjoy your life!


Applaud your achievements and appreciate what you value as the quality of life.

[Zenzone]

Since everyone is sharing their history... here goes mine...

Being lower middle class / borderline poor, I always dreamt of coming out of the financial shit hole since childhood. Always topped the exams. Always state top 3 or better in board exams/competitive exams. Dreamt even bigger to come to US. Great GRE (2260) score.. great admissions in good Us in US (UMass for my course was ranked 9th in those days) . My mom sold the last piece of jewellery she had (her mangalasutra) to pay for the US university application fees. However this was around 9/11 and no scholarships! Could not afford to come to US.

Was going to Germany for MS in Digital Communications that is when by chance i was offered a good paying job in India by a US MNC. Decided to take the job. Worked my ass off 18hx7dx365. Recognized by the company as a whole, H1B applied. Landed in US in 2005.

Did not care / know much about GC process. Employer wanted to file GC in 2006, I procrastinated. Missed July 2007 fiasco. Changed employers several times and finally applied for GC in 2010 with a PD of Dec 2010.

However I never really compromised with quality of life. Below is what I count as my blessings.

1. Was able to lift my entire family out of poverty.
2. Sponsored education of my nephews and nieces.
3. Brought homes for family members in India.
4. Brought my first car in 2006. Changed car every few years. Now I have Honda Odyssey (for family) and Hyundai Santa Fe - both with loaded features. My dream car is BMW but like Q i am cheap (Exact same story.. wanted to buy it when I become a Director.. but when I did become a Director did not buy it)!
5. Brought my First home in 2010. My friends were like.. are you crazy.. its risky blah blah...
6. Married a beautiful and accomplished Girl. Inspite of being from privileged background she has perfectly blended in my life, values, culture.
7. Brought a larger home in 2012 with all privileges a home can offer.
8. 2 Beautiful kids (Boy and Girl) who give us immense joy.
9. Multiple investment homes in US fetching sizable rent.
10. Doing a job that I like.. promoted multiple times.. now in a Senior management position.

However, I am still on H1B. No regrets or complaints in life though! I joke sometimes that before I get GC, my child will be able to sponsor for Parent GC.. if US does not ban that too!!

Cheers guys! Enjoy your life!

Lovely! Kudos to you. Your storyline and mine has many similarities including the PD ;)

[qesehmk]

Since everyone is sharing their history... here goes mine...

Being lower middle class / borderline poor, I always dreamt of coming out of the financial shit hole since childhood. Always topped the exams. Always state top 3 or better in board exams/competitive exams. Dreamt even bigger to come to US. Great GRE (2260) score.. great admissions in good Us in US (UMass for my course was ranked 9th in those days) . My mom sold the last piece of jewellery she had (her mangalasutra) to pay for the US university application fees. However this was around 9/11 and no scholarships! Could not afford to come to US.

Was going to Germany for MS in Digital Communications that is when by chance i was offered a good paying job in India by a US MNC. Decided to take the job. Worked my ass off 18hx7dx365. Recognized by the company as a whole, Global level awards...H1B applied. Landed in US in 2005.

Did not care / know much about GC process. Employer wanted to file GC in 2006, I procrastinated. Missed July 2007 fiasco. Changed employers several times and finally applied for GC in 2010 with a PD of Dec 2010.

However I never really compromised with quality of life. Below is what I count as my blessings.

1. Was able to lift my entire family out of poverty.
2. Sponsored education of my nephews and nieces.
3. Brought homes for family members in India.
4. Brought my first car in 2006. Changed car every few years. Now I have Honda Odyssey (for family) and Hyundai Santa Fe - both with loaded features. My dream car is BMW but like Q i am cheap (Exact same story.. wanted to buy it when I become a Director.. but when I did become a Director did not buy it)!
5. Brought my First home in 2010. My friends were like.. are you crazy.. its risky blah blah...
6. Married a beautiful and accomplished Girl. Inspite of being from privileged background she has perfectly blended in my life, values, culture.
7. Brought a larger home in 2012 with all privileges a home can offer.
8. 2 Beautiful kids (Boy and Girl) who give us immense joy.
9. Multiple investment homes in US fetching sizable rent.
10. Doing a job that I like.. promoted multiple times.. now in a Senior management position.

However, I am still on H1B. No regrets or complaints in life though! I joke sometimes that before I get GC, my child will be able to sponsor for Parent GC.. if US does not ban that too!!

Cheers guys! Enjoy your life!

panda - truly admire your story. Particularly admire you sponsoring your relatives education / home purchases. Big deal and big heart. Your mom's mangalsutra story is quite touching. I bet you are likely from Maharashtra Karnataka or Gujarat heritage.

A lot of people may not know this but Mangalsutra is a predominantly Maharashtrian (and hence also a Gujarat / Karnataka) thing. Mangalsutra captured imagination of women all over India after Nirupa Roy in 1975 iconic film Deewar used it to ward off bad guys !!

p.s. - You are very smart with poor spelling though. 3 times you spelt "Bought" as "Brought". See I am from Pune. So I can't help but point this out ;)

[skpanda]

Lovely! Kudos to you. Your storyline and mine has many similarities including the PD ;)

Glad to know.. All the best!!

[vedu]

1. Was able to lift my entire family out of poverty.
2. Sponsored education of my nephews and nieces.


This is the best part of the journey! Paying it forward and making a difference. :)

[Zenzone]

Here is my story -

1) Although I finished Engg. (2000 passout) and had a good GRE score couldn't apply and come to the USA (due to financial inability). Didn't have money to apply! Took a job that paid small sum instead and supported family and myself for the initial 3 years then moved to work for large banks in India which is when the progress started.
2) Finally came to the US to study in one of the top 20 business school globally in 2005 (700 plus GMAT and 90% scholarship). After years of careful planning and saving money to apply and afford a plane ticket/initial living expenses. Came here without any loans because I had no collateral to pledge for it. Had to work 20 hours and live in a couch for the first year to keep expenses at check while taking a basic required health insurance.
3) Scored near perfect GPA all through my MBA and got placed in a highly reputed Fortune 10 enterprise.
4) Over the years, moved from being an analyst to a Managing Director. Worked my A** off and navigated so much politics at times but largely I love my employer for being fair to the performers at the end of the day. Didn't care much about applying for GC n stuff instead was hell bent on growth and learning so procrastinated applying for GC until I became a Manager in mid-2010 and hence the Jan 2011 PD!
5) First car was a BMW and then a couple upgrades. After marriage and having my lovely boy and girl, me and my childhood sweetheart wife decided to trade our nice cars for utility workhorses a.k.a Minivans and SUVs!
6) Proud owner of a good sized single family home that houses all human comforts needed to raise a happy family. Bought a nice home for my parents also in India who never owned a home in their lifetime.
7) I'm a long distance runner, love cooking and eating healthy. As my username suggests, I love meditation too!
8) Being in the GC waitline doesn't bother me much unless I hear unnecessary changes that will adversely impact our separate h1b/GC tracks of me and the wifey. Otherwise, I too joke that my son will sponsor us!!

Overall, I'm thankful to god and this country for giving me the life I dreamt for and I have no regrets because I know at this stage of my career my job will actually follow me wherever I go and my family is my number one priority! I did this because of many random acts of kindness that many many people I met in my journey did to me without any expectation. Needless to mention the sacrifices of my parents and near and dear within our family. Sometimes, I feel I don't deserve any of it and get humbled by it. Giving back is the only way out by helping others to achieve their true potential and help them get to a better spot in their lives too, I see that as a duty rather than an option :)

[skpanda]

panda - truly admire your story. Particularly admire you sponsoring your relatives education / home purchases. Big deal and big heart. Your mom's mangalsutra story is quite touching. I bet you are likely from Maharashtra Karnataka or Gujarat heritage.

A lot of people may not know this but Mangalsutra is a predominantly Maharashtrian (and hence also a Gujarat / Karnataka) thing. Mangalsutra captured imagination of women all over India after Nirupa Roy in 1975 iconic film Deewar used it to ward off bad guys !!

p.s. - You are very smart with poor spelling though. 3 times you spelt "Bought" as "Brought". See I am from Pune. So I can't help but point this out ;)

Thanks Q... I am from Odissa but entirely brought up in Andhra Pradesh. My first job was in Pune... lived in Pradikaran...

Mangalasutra is important in Andhra too. We have sort of adopted Andhra culture. So it was an important (and more importantly the last) piece of jewellery.

Btw.. I am obsessed with proper spelling too... Just typos while quick typing. I usually fix spellings after I write fast (spell check tools has made me lazy over the time though)

[skpanda]

Here is my story -

1) Although I finished Engg. (2000 passout) and had a good GRE score couldn't apply and come to the USA (due to financial inability). Didn't have money to apply! Took a job that paid small sum instead and supported family and myself for the initial 3 years then moved to work for large banks in India which when the progress started.
2) Finally came to the US to study in one of the top 20 business school globally in 2005 (700 plus GMAT and 90% scholarship). After years of careful planning and saving money to apply and afford a plane ticket/initial living expenses. Came here without any loans because I had no collateral to pledge for it. Had to work 20 hours and live in a couch for the first year to keep expenses at check while taking a basic required health insurance.
3) Scored near perfect GPA all through my MBA and got placed in a highly reputed Fortune 10 enterprise.
4) Over the years, moved from being an analyst to a Managing Director. Worked my A** off and navigated so much politics at times but largely I love my employer for being fair to the performers at the end of the day. Didn't care much about applying for GC n stuff instead was hell bent on growth and learning so procrastinated applying for GC until I became a Manager in mid-2010 and hence the Jan 2011 PD!
5) First car was a BMW and then a couple upgrades. After marriage and having my lovely boy and girl, me and my childhood sweetheart wife decided to trade our nice cars for utility workhorses a.k.a Minivans and SUVs!
6) Proud owner of a good sized single family home that houses all human comforts needed to raise a happy family.
7) Being in the GC waitline doesn't bother me much unless I hear unnecessary changes that will adversely impact our separate h1b/GC tracks of me and the wifey. Otherwise, I too joke that my son will sponsor us!!

Overall, I'm thankful to god and this country for giving me the life I dreamt for and I have no regrets because I know at this stage of my career my job will actually follow me wherever I go and my family is my number one priority! I did this because of many random acts of kindness that many many people I met in my journey did to me without any expectation. Needless to mention the sacrifices of my parents and near and dear within our family. Sometimes, I feel I don't deserve any of it and get humbled by it. Giving back is the only way out by helping others to achieve their true potential and help them get to a better spot in their lives too, I see that as a duty rather than an option :)

Wow .. what a strikingly similar story... Happy for you!..you did accomplish already something I wanted to but have not been able to so far... To study in US.. it's in the horizon though... trying for...Executive MBA.. from good school in near future..

[qesehmk]

Thanks Q... I am from Odissa but entirely brought up in Andhra Pradesh. My first job was in Pune... lived in Pradikaran...

Mangalasutra is important in Andhra too. We have sort of adopted Andhra culture. So it was an important (and more importantly the last) piece of jewellery.

Btw.. I am obsessed with proper spelling too... Just typos while quick typing. I usually fix spellings after I write fast (spell check tools has made me lazy over the time though)

Great story. I am sure almost everybody here has some story. Thanks for sharing. Pradhikaran is a good place. I have some relatives there. Even I misspell all the time. Don't mind it ... I am just being a Punekar.