Hispanics are the fastest-growing ethnic group in the U.S. but despite their achievements as individuals or groups, they still do not fully share in many of the benefits afforded to other U.S. citizens. Latino immigrants still face discrimination and other difficulties in the U.S., even 2nd and 3rd generation immigrants. Here are some of the common challenges Latino immigrants may have to deal with.

Language difficulties

Many Latino immigrants do not speak fluent English and can have difficulty with filling out the forms and dealing with embassies so they can get their visas. According to Pew Research, four out of every ten Latinos say they have been criticized for speaking Spanish and told to go back to their home country.

Not having their visas and being in the U.S. illegally can seriously compound their difficulties, especially in states with anti-immigrant laws and sentiments. Immigration lawyers from USAttorneys.com have plenty of experience and can assist them in filling in the paperwork and obtaining their visas so they don’t have to live in fear.

Apart from language difficulties affecting their immigration status, they can affect every aspect of their lives, from finding jobs to finding homes.

Barriers to quality health care

The health status of Latinos varies depending on the generation of migration, English language skills and their level of integration. Latinos often face several financial and non-financial barriers when accessing quality health care.

They may have trouble finding health care professionals who speak Spanish and many of them are disproportionately underinsured. They may not have the access and care they need to treat certain chronic health conditions, such as cancer or diabetes, which can be dangerous.

Problems with the criminal justice

Hispanics are more impacted by abuses and biases in the existing criminal justice system, both as the accused and as victims. They may face aggressive police practices because they become targets due to their physical appearance.

Certain police officers will do things like target Hispanic drivers for traffic enforcement. Laws in certain states like Arizona “show me your papers” law can be intimidating for Latinos having difficulty in obtaining their visas. Abogados de Inmigración can assist them in getting their visas.

Difficulty finding suitable jobs

Latinos may have difficulty getting good jobs, especially if they have limited English proficiency because the global market is progressively reliant on well-educated English speakers. A considerable lack of prospects for academic achievement in primary and secondary schools contributes to inequality at college levels for children of immigrants.

Educational inequality can be a major difficulty for immigrants pursuing the “American dream.” Knowledge of English is the key to success in higher education and the labor market. The data shows that there is some progress amongst Latinos, both over time and across generations, regarding education at all levels.

Integration difficulties

With growing mass immigration from Mexico, Central and South America, there is a larger demand to integrate Hispanics in local, state, and national political forums. Their minimal political presence, especially at federal levels, means they have less opportunity to be heard. Social integration can be difficult for immigrants, especially when they don’t speak English. It can be hard for them to navigate maintaining their cultural identity and yet integrating into society.

A growing Hispanic middle class in the U.S. is especially evident in increasing homeownership. It is important to keep closing the gap when it comes to immigrant and citizen status, earning power and financial stability, and the level of economic and social integration.

When they have the opportunities to improve their English proficiency and level of education, this will improve the economic wellbeing of immigrants and hasten their social and political integration.