Immigration in Westchester County, NY

Immigrants in Westchester County

Westchester County, NY is home to about 1 million people, 25% of whom were born outside of the United States (the national average is about 14%). The largest towns and cities include Yonkers, White Plains, and Peekskill. Immigrants in Westchester County come from a variety of countries including the Dominican Republic, India, and China. 

Some immigrant groups are more prominent than others, depending on the area. For example, many Japanese immigrants have made Westchester County their home in places like Harrison and Scarsdale. The result is a smattering of small immigrant-owned businesses like Japanese grocery stores, restaurants, and bakeries. One such establishment is Daido Market in White Plains, where you can pick up delicious items such as natto (fermented soy beans), genmai (brown rice), and gyudon (beef bowls).

Bilingual Education in Westchester

Westchester County is notable for its French community, particularly in Larchmont, Mamaroneck, and New Rochelle. There are several French schools in the county, such as the French Institute / Alliance Francaise, as well as the French-American School of New York (locations in Mamaroneck and Larchmont), which offers an international bilingual education. Both of these schools offer instruction in French, and students have the chance to learn about French culture and history, among other things. 

Educators looking to work in Westchester County have access to a number of visas. Many will find success with the H-1b visa for those with a bachelor’s degree. The H-1b visa allows teachers and administrators to work in the U.S. for up to six years, though many will need to enter the annual lottery. The J-1 exchange visa also allows teachers to work for up to five years. Other options include the Q-1 cultural exchange visa for educators who will share their home country’s culture with students in the U.S. 

Schools may be able to sponsor their staff for green cards, either via the EB-2 for professionals with an advanced degree, or otherwise the EB-3 pathway. Truly exceptional educators may also find success with the EB-2 National Interest Waiver, which allows them to self-sponsor their own green card.

Westchester County Immigration Lawyer

If you live or work in Westchester County and are exploring your immigration options, it’s important to speak with an experienced attorney. Please get in touch today: +1 845-288-2435 / beaconimmigrationlawyer@gmail.com.  

Beacon Immigration PLLC is a law firm located in the Hudson Valley of New York at 6 Eliza Street, Suite 5, Beacon, NY 12508 (Dutchess County).