McHughs Renews The Visa To Stay Here

With so much media over the years regarding immigration we often think of the people, for whatever reason, that have come here with no legal status. No one sympathizes with those people more than Amy and I, WHY? Because doing it the right way as we have is SO difficult and expensive.We moved to the States in 2011 having fallen in love with America during our visits to my parents who have lived here since 2000. We arrived with a dream of starting a fresh new London style hair salon but also to give our boys (at the time) Alfie and Arlo and ourselves a lifestyle that couldn’t be achieved back home in England. That dream has not only delivered but the reality has far exceeded our expectations. We have fantastic employees who have made the business what it is today, neighbors who are beyond welcoming and friends that make us feel that THIS IS HOME. As we’ve learned over the 10 years of being in business though most things come at a cost, be it emotional or financial. Whilst we have worked tirelessly to create a successful business and a home for our now 4 boys to live and call home, we are now left with the prospect of having to return the UK to renew our visa. This visa only lasts 5 years at a time and has to be renewed back in London and doesn’t even guarantee our future here as there is no path to citizenship or Legal Permanent Residency (our 2 older boys that were born in the UK who have lived here since they were 4 and 2 wouldn’t even be eligible to live in the USA once they reach 21 years old.....they’d have to return to the UK). A lot of people are under the impression that if you own a business, you are RICH, I wish that misconception were true as it would allow an easier trip home. Each trip home to renew said visa costs approximately $13,000 including flights, transportation and legal fees. Your help and understanding is greatly appreciated.