How Can New Path Help You with Your Special Needs?
Immigration Support for Applicants With Disabilities
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has implemented a range of disability accommodations and support mechanisms to ensure that all applicants have equal access to the immigration system. In this guide, we will explore the various types of disability accommodations offered by USCIS to applicants seeking different types of visas, green cards, or U.S. citizenship. There are a few ways that disability may impact immigration to the United States, including:
- Disability accommodations: The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) offers reasonable accommodations to applicants with disabilities at any stage of the immigration process. These accommodations can include taking tests orally, providing sign language interpreters, or allowing applicants to be interviewed at home or a medical facility.
- Form N-648: Applicants with a physical or developmental disability, or mental impairment that prevents them from learning English and civics, may be eligible for a medical certification for disability exception. A licensed medical professional must evaluate the applicant and certify Form N-648.
- Family reunification: International law allows refugees and asylees to be joined by close family members. However, some countries may impose conditions on this right, such as requiring applicants to prove they have sufficient financial resources.
- Harmful behavior: Applicants with a history of harmful behavior associated with a mental or physical disorder may be inadmissible. Harmful behavior is defined as behavior that poses a threat to the safety, welfare, or property of the applicant or others.
More Disability Immigration Services We Can Provide
Advice and Personal Assistance in Immigration for People with Special Needs
Families caring for children on the autism spectrum often face staggering financial burdens, especially when accessing vital therapies. In Brazil, the cost for behavioral therapies such as ABA (30 hours per week) can exceed $30,000 per month. According to a 2024 PENSI and Fipe-USP study, families with level 3 autism experience a 36.5% deficit in their healthcare budgets. Even for families with level 1 or 2 autism, the figure is still high at 21.2%. Comparatively, families without autism face a significantly lower rate of 12.7%.
Beyond ABA, access to other critical therapies such as speech therapy, occupational therapy, hippotherapy, music therapy, and physical therapy is both challenging and costly, often exceeding $50,000 per month.
However, in the United States, the picture is remarkably different.
Access to Affordable Therapies and Support in the U.S.
- Insurance Coverage: Low-cost health plans in the U.S. cover therapies such as ABA, speech, and occupational therapy in full. Medicaid includes a specialized line, CMS, which is entirely free for individuals with special needs.
- Subsidized Health Plans: Insurance plans for middle-income families, supported by government subsidies, typically require a co-payment of $2,500–$4,000 annually per family for comprehensive services. These plans cost between $3,000 and $10,000 per year for a family of four.
- Higher-Income Families: Families with annual incomes above $200,000 spend no more than $20,000 per year on medical care, covering the entire family.
Educational Opportunities
- Specialized Schools: Thousands of private schools cater to children with autism, averaging $35,000 per year.
- Public Schools with Specialized Programs: These provide tailored support, including special classes for children on the autism spectrum.
- Government Scholarships: For families opting for private education, scholarships ranging from $11,000 to $36,000 per year are available based on the child’s level of support and location, regardless of family income.
Accounting Support for Financial Transfers
Our experienced accounting team ensures smooth financial transactions between Brazil and the U.S.:
- Safe and legal methods for sending and withdrawing money.
- Assistance with tax implications and compliance.
Sports, Leisure, and Community Resources
The U.S. offers numerous programs for sports, recreation, and education, often free or at significantly reduced costs. The infrastructure, support systems, and opportunities for individuals on the autism spectrum are far more advanced compared to many other countries.
Is Moving to the U.S. Feasible?
Absolutely. Accessing these treatments and opportunities is possible through a well-structured immigration process. This journey can be simpler and faster than many families anticipate, especially with experienced legal and personal support.
How We Help
Navigating the immigration process with children or adults with special needs can be overwhelming. Our team has 8 years of expertise in assisting families to access better treatments and quality of life.
Areas of Expertise
- Health Insurance Selection: Identifying the best coverage for therapies and treatments.
- Medical and Therapeutic Support: Finding doctors, specialists, and alternative therapies.
- Education and Activities: Locating schools, sports, and cultural programs.
- Scholarship Applications: Assisting in securing financial support for education.
Start your journey toward a better future today. Contact us to learn more about how we can support you and your family.
Ready to begin your Disability Immigration Visa Journey?
Let the Experts at New Path Group Services Help Through the Process
If you’re unsure about which visa option may be right for you and your partner, or you just want to discuss your immigration plans in more detail, reach out to our team today. Our experienced team of visa specialists can walk you through the specifics of each visa path, and help you choose the best route based on your needs.