Life Outside the U.S.

Whether you’re seeking security, stability, or a wider set of possibilities, if you are undocumented in the U.S. and curious about what life in another country could be like, you are not alone. The U.S. is not the only country in the world where you can achieve your dreams. For years, undocumented individuals have sought and obtained security, wellness, and educational and professional opportunities outside the U.S. Although it is not an easy path, it is one worth exploring.

This project is designed to familiarize you with the important considerations of pursuing a future outside the U.S., so that you feel empowered to make the decision that best suits you. The following five modules cover distinct phases of the process from initial exploration, to selecting an immigration path, considering close relationships, adjusting to life abroad, and understanding your options for returning to the U.S. The modules consist of reflection prompts, conversation starters, stories from formerly undocumented individuals who have left the U.S., and an overview of important legal information.

Keep in mind that these materials are intended to get you started, but they are by no means a complete blueprint. Each individual’s circumstances are unique. Make sure to seek the additional time, resources, and support you need to decide whether a life outside the U.S. is right for you.

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Imagining Life Outside the U.S.

This module is designed to guide you through a process of self-reflection and visioning about your life in the U.S. and the possibilties of a life abroad.

Stories

Conversations

Resources

	JOURNAL: Imagining Life Outside the U.S. Use this journal to reflect on your life in the U.S and imagine what living abroad could look like for you.
	AFFIRMATIONS: For Those Who Are Considering Leaving the U.S. Consult this resource as a source of encouragement when you are feeling overwhelmed by process of considering a life outside the U.S.

Planning Where to Go

This module is designed to help you identify personal, professional, and educational opportunities outside the U.S., as well as determine what immigration options are available to you.

Stories

Conversations

Resources

	GUIDE: Overview of Possible Immigration Options Outside the U.S. Read this resource to learn about the different options for leaving the U.S. that are available to you.
	CHECKLIST: Preparing to Leave the U.S. Use this resource to prepare a timeline of tasks to accomplish before leaving the U.S.

Relationship Considerations

This module is designed to guide you through a process of self-reflection on how leaving the U.S. would impact your important relationships, as well as support you in initiating conversations on the subject with your loved ones.

Stories

"Coming Back to the U.S. After Seven Years in Peru"

Conversations

"What was it like to leave your loved ones behind?"

"How did your family react to your decision to leave?

Resources

	JOURNAL: Thinking About My Relationships Before Leaving the U.S. Use this journal to reflect on how leaving the U.S. would impact your important relationships.
	CONVERSATION STARTERS: Talking to My Relationships About Leaving the U.S. Use this resource for support initiating conversations with your loved ones about leaving the U.S.

Adjusting to Life Outside the U.S.

This module is designed to support you during your adjustment to living outside the U.S.

Stories

"Straddling Peruvian and American Culture"

Conversations

"How did you adjust to life in a new country?"

"How did your expectations compare to the reality of life abroad?"

Resources

	AFFIRMATIONS: For Those Who Have Left the U.S. Consult this resource as a source of encouragement when you are feeling overwhelmed by your decision to live outside the U.S.
	OVERVIEW: Complete List of Life Outside the U.S. Resources Find all the resources created and gathered for the Life Outside the U.S. project.

Returning to the U.S.

This module is designed to inform you of the important factors you will need to consider while planning to re-enter the U.S.—whether temporarily or permanently—once you have left the country.

Stories

"Getting a Waiver to Return to the U.S. from Europe"

Conversations

"Did returning to the U.S. feel like a possibility when you left?"

"How did the possibility of returning affect your decision to leave the U.S.?"

Resources

	GUIDE: Returning to the U.S. After Leaving Read this resource to learn about the important factors to consider while planning your return/visit to the U.S. after leaving the country.
	OVERVIEW: Complete List of Life Outside the U.S. Resources Find all the resources created and gathered for the Life Outside the U.S. project.

	OVERVIEW: Complete List of Life Outside the U.S. Resources Find all the resources created and gathered for the Life Outside the U.S. project.
	VIDEO PLAYLIST: Life Outside the U.S. Stories Watch all of the Life Outside the U.S. stories.
	VIDEO PLAYLIST: Life Outside the U.S. Conversations Watch all of the Life Outside the U.S. conversations.
	Get Email Updates About Life Outside the U.S.

Watch the Launch Party hosted on January 12 ⇨

Credits

Project Leads: Beleza Chan, Alejandro Espinoza, and Katharine Gin
Participants: Aliana, Beleza, Berenice, Clara, Geidy, Karen, Kelly, My Ford, Nancy and Sadhana
Editor: Claire Calderón
Designer: Grace Yeo
Filmmakers: Citizen Film
Audio Editor: Kjell Nordeson
Legal Advisor: Dan Berger, Marilia Zellner