My name is Baraa, I am 26 years old and I am from Syria. I left my country in 2012 because of the war. In 2015 after a long and difficult journey I finally settled down as a refugee in Germany where I study and work.

When I first came to Germany I started using a language learning application where people exchange languages. I wanted to learn German and improve in English and I taught others Arabic. It was there where I met my Anastasia, an American student studying Arabic. After almost 5 months of talking everyday, I finally met her when she came to Europe on vacation. From the moment I saw her I knew she was my destiny. Ever since that time, she has come to visit me a few times a year, mostly during the summer. Long distance has been very difficult, but it is worth it when you find true love.

In 2016 we became engaged and hired a lawyer to begin working on a fiancé visa. However, the several versions of President Trump’s Travel ban proved we had a long and almost impossible road ahead. Since that time, our future has been on hold. We are trying to figure out how to be together. I want to start my studies but don’t want to start in Germany if I am coming to America soon, so I am working to save money. Anastasia is starting her masters degree at university of Michigan this coming Fall where I plan to join her as soon as possible. After struggling for many years trying to figure out work and school for both of us while wanting to be together, we have decided to move forward with the fiancé visa even though it is risky because of the travel ban. Our lawyer submitted the application along with the travel ban waiver. We believe our case is strong and we will finally be together soon!

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We paid $3,500 out of pocket for lawyer fees and the visa. We still need to buy a plane ticket, pay for a small wedding, and pay for an adjustment of status once we get married. I also want to start classes as soon as possible at a community college to take classes in photography and fulfill my dream of being a professional photographer. Anastasia is working to pay for her studies and I am working to save as much as I can, but it is not enough for our immediate future.

We are asking for your support to help us begin our future together after overcoming many difficulties. We are so excited at the thought of finally being together and never having to say goodbye. We thank you for your support.