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> I'm an immigrant, they helped me get Permanent Residency, and I've always been underpaid. The company has a chronic history of underpaying and undervaluing tech people.

Whatever you are considering at this time, please please please do not think in terms of gratitude for this company. They brought you to your current job because of your utility. They are NOT in the business of helping immigrants. At worst, if you leave, another immigrant will get their chance at a Permanent Residency.

> Three friends in the last three months have stood their ground and eventually just walked out, the company didn't try to offer them anything to stay on, even though they're doing the work of 10 people and are basically irreplaceable.

I would start looking for other options EVEN IF they offer me better compensation/benefits etc. Any time someone more can leave, leaving you with like double or triple the work. We can be almost sure there are no stock options etc. in your company for tech people. You can't go on negotiating pay every few months. It is hard, and makes you look very selfish: "the company is in a constant 'crisis', and this guy just wants increased comp/benefits." (No matter how self-made the crisis is)

I would add only that it isn't polite to call them unreasonable - just that the offer is not realistic. It's a fact that increased responsibilities demand higher compensation, and you shouldn't have to explain that to them. Make a counter-offer: "Considering the added responsibilities and my extensive experience in the field and within the company, I'll be happy to take the position for $AMOUNT."

I like it. Short and to the point.

Hang in there; not all employers suck like that. And you can always be your own boss if you're persistent enough ;-)

But do what you have to do to protect yourself and what you've worked hard for.