Am I being discriminated against?

[MedRoni 161]

I don't mean to steer this into a negative conversation/thread and accept everyone's consensus here, but I think there is and should be a right balance. There is no hiding in what people/world's view are, of Pakistan, I am very well aware of the stigma. My point is that by holding a Pakistani passport I am inherently subjected to that stigma, and I am okay with that, but I fail to understand the value Birth Certificate adds - what precisely will it confirm or re-confirm?!

The other reason I find this request unreasonable is because generally people dont understand the circumstance of how/when the Birth Certificates were issued 3-4 decades ago in these underdeveloped countries. For example, its very common to not have the child's name on the birth certificate that is issued only under mother's name. I respect the US immigration process for incorporating these cultural difference to reduce the angst of bureaucratic processes but at the same time find it very odd that European countries are still trying to play catch-up

But you said you had a birth certificate (it is not like you cannot get it from 4 decades ago... you have it), so the only issue you had was because you don't understand why they asked and that you feel discriminated against. Maybe a name pops up in their system that matches yours and they need to determine if that is really you or not... there could be a number of reasons. There is no point in being angry, especially if you already have what they want. If you are truly that upset about it, don't provide it and don't go.

Edited July 17, 2013 by MedRoni

[MIDUVIL 34]

The website for the Italian embassy in the US clearly states "The Consular office will evaluate the documents submitted and may request additional ones at its discretion. Furthermore, you should also be aware that submitting the required documentation does not automatically guarantee the issuance of a visa. " right under the requirements listed. I do not think you were discriminated against. (I also think the officer probably told you or meant to tell you it was discretionary, not discriminatory)Yes, your past travels may help make it easier to get a visa to some countries, but it does not guarantee you anything. Italy may not care you lives in the US so long or have been to Europe before.. they saw something with your application that just makes them want that extra check.

If you have your birth certificate then what is the big deal? Why all the anger for something they are just taking care to make sure all is well? If the trip to Italy is worth it then just supply them with what they requested and enjoy your trip.

Yea like Medroni said "discretionay instead of discriminatory".

When I read this part, i didn't catch it, but maybe it's "discretionary", maybe an open door for several things included "subtil discrimination" (lol).

But take it easy.

Good luck

[OnMyWayID 1,489]

You have been in the U.S. 13 years and Pakistan allows for dual citizenship.. Why not drop the residency and become a citizen? No need for a Visa to Italy..

[hellomms 16]

No one but you seems to think providing a birth certificate is discriminatory and unreasonable. It is not discriminatory and it is not unreasonable to ask for a birth certifiate.

reading doesnt seem to be your forte see my original post "....I asked the officer why its not listed on their website as a requirement and the response was that "it would be discriminatory"

[canadian_wife 1,808]

reading doesnt seem to be your forte see my original post "....I asked the officer why its not listed on their website as a requirement and the response was that "it would be discriminatory"

You ask for insight and then you insult posters

Really?

It IS listed on their website, see post #13

good luck

Edited July 17, 2013 by canadian_wife

[Darnell 8,478]

so, did you decide to go back with the birth certificate, or no ?

[Muba 1]

Let's talk about sports, anyone watch the game last night?