Podcasts about immigration services uscis

In this week's episode of Parsing Immigration Policy, Senior Legal Fellow George Fishman explains that verifying Social Security numbers could be the solution to two issues: States' need for tools to help identify those eligible to vote in the United States and DHS's need for tools to uncover employers who are knowingly employing illegal aliens.Voter Eligibility VerificationExecutive Order: U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has announced that it will be giving states and localities the ability to check SSNs of individuals registering to vote and those already on the voter rolls to verify citizenship.History: Fishman reflects on his role in proposing this idea nearly three decades ago as part of the 1997 Voter Eligibility Verification Act. How it will work: State and local governments will be given access to federal databases through an upgrade of USCIS's Systematic Alien Verification for Entitlements system to confirm citizenship.Employment Eligibility VerificationNo-Match Letters: Although the administration has not announced any action on re-instating “no-match” letters, the SSA could revive the practice of notifying employers when a worker's Social Security number doesn't match the name listed in the SSA's database.History: The episode covers the history of no-match letters, including their origins, past implementations, and abandonment by the Obama and Biden administrations. Policy Recommendations: Fishman recommends that SSA resume issuing no-match letters and DHS reissue its regulations instructing employers that they may be found to know that they are employing illegal aliens if they don't take certain actions upon receipt of no-match letters.HostMark Krikorian is the Executive Director of the Center for Immigration StudiesGuestGeorge Fishman is the Senior Legal Fellow at the Center for Immigration Studies.RelatedThe Trump Administration is Empowering States to Verify Voters Citizenship“Preserving and Protecting the Integrity of American Elections”Reviving No-Match Letters: A powerful tool against illegal employmentIs the Harvard TRO Likely to be Effective?DHS Pulls Harvard's Student-Visa Certification AuthorityIntro MontageVoices in the opening montage:Sen. Barack Obama at a 2005 press conference.Sen. John McCain in a 2010 election ad.President Lyndon Johnson, upon signing the 1965 Immigration Act.Booker T. Washington, reading in 1908 from his 1895 Atlanta Exposition speech.Laraine Newman as a "Conehead" on SNL in 1977.Hillary Clinton in a 2003 radio interview.Cesar Chavez in a 1974 interview.House Speaker Nancy Pelosi speaking to reporters in 2019.Prof. George Borjas in a 2016 C-SPAN appearance.Sen. Jeff Sessions in 2008 comments on the Senate floor.Charlton Heston in "Planet of the Apes".

The H-1B visa is one of the most sought-after work visas in the United States, allowing employers to hire foreign professionals in specialty occupations. While the standard processing time for an H-1B visa can take several months, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) offers an optional H-1B Premium Processing service.  

Nearly every day, on any news service, images of people being quickly led away is chilling as the current Administration continues its sweep of rounding up and deporting suspected illegal immigrants.Thus, in this current climate of increased audits, investigations and scrutiny on immigration, it is essential that healthcare organizations sponsoring foreign nationals for employment, ensure that documentation, policies, and practices are updated and fully compliant.During the next live edition of the venerable Monitor Mondays live Internet radio broadcast, seasoned immigration attorney Matthew Webster will walk you through such essential issues as H-1B visas, L-1 visas and employment-based green cards. Webster is also expected to report on requirements from the Department of Labor (DOL) and the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).Webster, senior immigration attorney at the law firm of Fredrikson & Byron, will discuss the impact of material changes when H-1B amendments are required.The long-running broadcast will also include these instantly recognizable features:• Monday Rounds: Ronald Hirsch, MD, vice president of R1 RCM, will be making his Monday Rounds.• Risky Business: Healthcare attorney David Glaser, shareholder in the law offices of Fredrikson & Byron, will join the broadcast with his trademark segment.• Legislative Update: Matthew Albright, chief legislative affairs analyst for Zelis, will report on congressional action taking place in Washington, D.C.

In New York City, spirited badge-holders and independent music fans wove in and out of 150-person capacity clubs filled with groups from around the globe during the New Colossus Festival, held a few weeks ago. Now in its sixth year, 196 artists were scheduled to perform, more than half from outside the United States. But New Colossus may be an exception, not the rule, for international artists hoping to perform in the U.S. In the last few years, the process of obtaining necessary visas has grown much more arduous and expensive. "It's already at the maximum level of difficulty that we can rationalize," said Mischa Dempsey, frontperson for the thrilling Montreal band Knitting, who performed at New Colossus and described the process as "labor intensive." "I can't even think about it getting worse." On April 1, 2024, the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) introduced a visa fee increase, raising the cost from $460 to over $1,615 per musician application, the first bump since 2016. According to the USCIS website, the increase allows the organization to "recover our operating costs more fully and support timely processing of new applications." Nearly a year later, "we are seeing the opposite," immigration attorney Gabriel Castro said. "We are seeing cases actually slow down." Changes to the system have caused delays. According to Tamizdat, a nonprofit that advocates for international artist mobility, all visa petitions are now filed through a centralized service center in Texas and are randomly divvied up to preexisting California and Vermont service centers. The result has been slowed processing times. Matthew Covey, an immigration attorney and Tamizdat's executive director, says Vermont has gone from one month to three. In California, it previously took two to four months, but now, it's eight. "Nobody's filing petitions long enough in advance to sustain an eight-month delay," says Covey. "You got a 50/50 chance of it being done in a reasonable amount of time or having to pay an extra $2,800 to expedite it." This article was provided by The Associated Press.

On February 25, 2025, the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) announced new registration requirements for certain non-citizens residing in the United States. This announcement was published in accordance with President Trump's January 20, 2025 executive order, Protecting the American People Against Invasion, which requires the Department of Homeland Security to ensure non-citizens register with the government under section 262 of the Immigration and Nationality Act, 8 USC 1302.   

In the second part of our two-part podcast series on H-1B visa applications, Kara Lancaster (shareholder, Raleigh) and Meagan Dziura (of counsel, Raleigh) begin with a deep dive into the process of how individuals selected in the H-1B lottery file petitions (including related travel restrictions) the filing options for those selected (including change of status and consular notification), and the timeline for when individuals can enter the United States. Kara and Meagan touch on special provisions for F-1 students, the importance of considering L-1 visa holders, and other visa categories that may also benefit from entering the lottery. The speakers also cover recent updates from U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), the impact of increased fees, and strategies for managing various employee visa situations.

In part one of this two-part podcast series on H-1B visa applications, Kara Lancaster (shareholder, Raleigh) and Meagan Dziura (of counsel, Raleigh) discuss recent updates from U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) and provide valuable insights on how to prepare for the fiscal year 2026 H-1B lottery. Meagan and Kara cover the basics of the H-1B visa, its benefits, and why it is a popular choice among employers. They share practical tips on what steps you can take now to prepare for the registration window, which typically opens in early March, including updates from USCIS and the importance of early planning. The conversation also covers the benefits of the H-1B visa, recent changes to the registration process, and the impact of increased fees on employers.

J-1 Cultural Exchange Visas often come with a 2-year residency requirement pursuant to Sec.(212)e of the Federal Regulations. Foreign Nationals holding such J-1 visas, often get trapped applying and waiting for an I-612 to be approved, before moving to file for change of status or adjustment of status with U.S. Citizenship & Immigration Services (“USCIS”).    I will share three essential tips our immigration lawyers use to successfully navigate changing our clients J-1 visa status to a new work visa status; or adjusting clients to a U.S. Permanent resident status, notwithstanding a pending I-612 waiver. 

Jeremy Shockett, a seasoned legal expert with over 30 years in New York's courtroom battles, offers a rare glimpse into the darker corners of the justice system. From prosecuting notorious criminals to advocating for legal reform, Shockett's career reveals both the harsh realities and hopeful transformations within criminal justice. In this exclusive interview, he reflects on high-profile cases, evolving policies, and the personal impact of navigating the shadows of law and crime. Discover the complexities and challenges of New York's legal landscape through Shockett's seasoned perspective. [00:40] - About Jeremy Shockett  Jeremy is a shareholder in Anderson Kill's New York office. He co-chairs the White Collar Defense group. He is a member of the firm's Corporate and Commercial Litigation practice group. Jeremy has represented individuals and corporations in front of the Department of Justice (DOJ), Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), Internal Revenue Service (IRS), and the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/tbcy/support

Today's guest is one of those rare individuals who has excelled in leadership positions that include not just public sector government service but the private sector as well. We are joined by Rob Brown, the current Chief Technology Officer and Executive Vice President of Systalex, a company providing commercial and federal agencies with contemporary solutions. Prior to his roles at Systalex, Rob worked at several private companies and spent seven years at the US Citizen and Immigration Services (USCIS), first as Division Chief and then as CTO. He has a strong background in IT and business and has extensive experience in the field, from managing technical teams and corporate IT strategies to completing large-scale IT deployments. In this conversation with Rob, we discuss his experience of navigating both the public and private sectors, what it's been like returning to small business leadership, and his advice for others considering this type of transition. Tuning in, you'll learn about the challenges of transitioning between these worlds, the regulations and dynamics that govern each sphere, valuable lessons that can help agencies be better small business partners, and much more!Key Points From This Episode:An overview of Rob's experience as CTO at USCIS.What made him return to the private sector.A rundown of the various roles that he occupies at Systalex.Navigating the transition between the public and private sectors.Rob's reflections on contracts, networking, timing, and re-establishing connections.Top takeaways on cultivating a growth strategy and getting buy-in from your team.How Rob managed his relationships during his transition to the private sector.Finding balance: the demands of occupying an executive role and delivering resources.Rob's advice for federal employees looking to transition into the private sector.Human-centered design, AI products for government, and what's next for Rob and Systalex.A recap and summary of what we covered today.Sponsors:Withum: withum.comWithum is a forward-thinking, technology-driven advisory and accounting firm that offers a range of services including business advisory, forensic and valuation services, accounting and assurance, digital transformation, cybersecurity, and tax consulting.Twenty39 — Helping small businesses be successful in GovCon: twenty39.comIf your business is considering government contracting and needs expert advisory, business development, proposal management, and/or operations support, we are here to help! We provide end-to-end enablement for pursuing government contracts.Hive39 Community: twenty39.com/hive39-communityAn inclusive online community for GovCon Small Businesses and Consultants to learn, share, and grow. Receive free resources to support your business in pursuing government contracts, meet new partners, identify small business-relevant events and cost-appropriate vendor resources, stay up to date on policy and legal changes impacting small businesses, and share 1099 and partnership opportunities. Join today! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this episode we harken back to early COVID times. Brian Thai from DHS joins us to discuss an AGA Journal article he wrote about the user fee crisis that arose during those times at the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) and other DHS components.

Description: In this episode of Roofing Road Trips®, Heidi sits down with Mary Kate Fernandez of Adams and Reese to talk about the H-1B Visa program. Introduced by the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), which serves as a gateway for skilled foreign workers to contribute their expertise to American companies, the H-1B Visa program can be an opportunity for employers to find workers. But for contractors aiming to leverage this program, approaching it strategically involves staying abreast of best practices, seeking guidance from professionals well-versed in immigration law and understanding the nuances of the application process which Mary Kate will discuss during the podcast. Tune in to understand the intricacies of the H-1B Visa and ensure smoother navigation through the program.  Learn more at RoofersCoffeeShop.com!   Are you a contractor looking for resources? Become an R-Club Member today! https://www.rooferscoffeeshop.com/rcs-club-sign-up  Follow Us!   https://www.instagram.com/rooferscoffeeshop/?hl=en  https://www.facebook.com/rooferscoffeeshop/  https://www.linkedin.com/company/rooferscoffeeshop-com  https://www.tiktok.com/@rooferscoffeeshop 

If you're considering helping your spouse immigrate, you'll likely need to file Form I-130 (Petition for Alien Relative) and Form I-130A (Supplemental Information for a Spouse Beneficiary) with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). This marks the beginning of an immigration journey that may not always be straightforward. It's essential to educate yourself on the process and requirements to minimize potential problems that could lead to delays. Ultimately, obtaining quick approval of the spousal petition is crucial in facilitating your husband or wife's immigration journey.

The last step of the marriage green card process is the interview which is scheduled by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) if the spouse seeking a green card lives in the United States, and by the National Visa Center (NVC) if they live abroad. This process can seem overwhelming for some, but with the right knowledge, you will be well equipped to ace your interview. 

In today's episode of Parsing Immigration Policy, Elizabeth Jacobs, the Center's Director of Regulatory Affairs and Policy, does a deep dive into her recent analysis of the new U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) fee schedule, set to take effect on April 1, 2024. Jacobs discusses how the 2024 fee rule is being leveraged to advance […]

In today’s episode of Parsing Immigration Policy, Elizabeth Jacobs, the Center’s Director of Regulatory Affairs and Policy, does a deep dive into her recent analysis of the new U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) fee schedule, set to take effect on April 1, 2024. Jacobs discusses how the 2024 fee rule is being leveraged to advance Biden’s policy objectives... Source

In today's episode of Parsing Immigration Policy, Elizabeth Jacobs, the Center's Director of Regulatory Affairs and Policy, does a deep dive into her recent analysis of the new U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) fee schedule, set to take effect on April 1, 2024.Jacobs discusses how the 2024 fee rule is being leveraged to advance Biden's policy objectives, ignoring the requirement that USCIS fees should be commensurate with the costs of processing specific applications.As USCIS faces increased demands and backlogs, the implications of these fee adjustments extend beyond revenue generation, influencing immigration policies and pathways far into the future.Key takeaways:Fees for immigration services for employers and entrepreneurs are set disproportionately high to offset new discounts and exemptions for other benefits, including USCIS' growing humanitarian docket. This shift in fee determination from a proportional to an ability-to-pay model is reminiscent of Karl Marx's philosophy of "from each according to his ability, to each according to his needs."The majority of naturalization applicants will receive a significant discount, incentivizing certain voter demographics to become naturalized. USCIS will offer nearly a 50 percent discount to all N-400 (Application for Naturalization) applicants who demonstrate their household income is 400 percent of the Federal Poverty Guidelines or less. Depending on size, a household income of as much as $124,800 annually would qualify for this discount. Jacobs estimates that roughly 65 percent of green card holders would qualify for the discount, generating a potential annual loss of revenue of $203 million.The types of immigration benefits subject to a fee waiver are significantly expanded. The rule significantly expanded the benefits that may be exempt from fees altogether – leaving fee-paying applicants and petitioners to cover the costs. USCIS reported forgoing $613 million in revenue in its FY 2016/17 fee review, and an astounding $1.494 billion in its FY 2019/2020 fee review. How much revenue will USCIS forgo as a result of fee waivers?The bottom line? This new fee structure passes significant costs – including the growing costs of the border crisis – to U.S. employers hiring legal foreign workers.In his closing commentary, Mark Krikorian, the Center's Executive Director and host of the podcast, criticizes those on both sides of the immigration debate who have used the recent Baltimore bridge tragedy as an excuse to push their policy agendas.HostMark Krikorian is the Executive Director of the Center for Immigration Studies.GuestElizabeth Jacobs is the Director of Regulatory Affairs and Policy at the Center for Immigration Studies.RelatedDHS Delays Updating USCIS's Fee Schedule, Exacerbating Agency's Financial WoesUSCIS's Fee Rule Inappropriately Transfers Cost of Broken Asylum System to US Employers52 Congressional Lawmakers Protest USCIS's Proposed Fee ScheduleFollowFollow Parsing Immigration Policy on Ricochet, Apple Podcasts, Youtube, Amazon Music, Spotify, Stitcher, Google Podcasts.Intro MontageVoices in the opening montage:Sen. Barack Obama at a 2005 press conference.Sen. John McCain in a 2010 election ad.President Lyndon Johnson, upon signing the 1965 Immigration Act.Booker T. Washington, reading in 1908 from his 1895 Atlanta Exposition speech.Laraine Newman as a "Conehead" on SNL in 1977.Hillary Clinton in a 2003 radio interview.Cesar Chavez in a 1974 interview.House Speaker Nancy Pelosi speaking to reporters in 2019.Prof. George Borjas in a 2016 C-SPAN appearance.Sen. Jeff Sessions in 2008 comments on the Senate floor.Charlton Heston in "Planet of the Apes".

In recent months, the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has announced significant fee increases across various visa categories. These changes could have substantial implications for businesses relying on skilled foreign talent. Our session aims to provide comprehensive insights into these fee hikes and equip you with proactive strategies to navigate them effectively. Associate Attorney, Belma Burkic, along with our Client Services Manager, Arianna Gonzalez, covered the following: • Overview of USCIS Fee Increases• Consideration for Non-Profits and Small Companies• Legal Considerations for Employers• Employee Contributions and Fee Payment Options• Strategic Planning for Increased Immigration Budget Listen In!

Listen in as we will delve into the upcoming changes brought by the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) with the introduction of Online Organizational Accounts, which are scheduled to be launched on February 28, 2024. This session will provide valuable insights into the pros and cons of this new system, offering you a comprehensive understanding of its implications for your organization as USCIS continues to expand its online filing features to employment-based immigration, including petitions filed for H-1B specialty occupation workers.

Rob Law is the former Chief of Policy at U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Border Crisis. Biden and Trump headed to the border.

Criminal records can significantly affect individuals seeking green cards and citizenship in the United States. The United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) carefully evaluates an applicant's background during the immigration process, including their criminal history. While a criminal record doesn't automatically disqualify someone from obtaining a green card or citizenship, it can complicate the process and potentially lead to denial or other consequences.

GUEST 1 OVERVIEW: Gene Valentino is a GOP political strategist and insider who also serves as the host of the Grassroots Truth Cast Podcast. He has an impressive background, having previously held the position of County Commissioner in Escambia County, Florida. GUEST 2 OVERVIEW: Ken is an American lawyer and politician who served as the senior official performing the duties of the Deputy Secretary of Homeland Security from 2019 to 2021. A member of the Republican Party, he also served as the Principal Deputy and Senior Official Performing the Duties of the Director of U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) and was Attorney General of Virginia from 2010 to 2014.

Full and fair access to immigration legal services is vital to ensure justice for asylum seekers and other migrants seeking protection in the immigration courts or immigration status before U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Legal representation is also essential to the effective functioning of the immigration court system, improving outcomes and appearances at all levels—an essential element for a body that is facing more than 2 million pending cases. Resolution of affirmative applications before USCIS and immigration court cases takes years, and the waiting times continue to grow. For poor and low-income immigrants, there is an average of only one legal representative for 1,413 unauthorized persons in the United States and this number varies greatly by state. Panelists discuss the current state of immigration legal services and the growing need for representation. They address the importance of investment in universal representation and the use of innovation and technology to ensure access to justice for those seeking status and protection in the United States. Legal services strengthen the integrity of the institutions which implement U.S. immigration laws and uphold due process and international law principles.   Speakers: Anna Marie Gallagher, Executive Director, CLINIC Rodrigo Camarena, Director, Justicia Lab Annie Chen, Initiative Director, Advancing Universal Representation, Vera Institute Emmett Soper, Counsel to the Director, Executive Office for Immigration Review, U.S. Department of Justice Wendy Young, President, Kids in Need of Defense (KIND) www.migrationpolicy.org

As you know, the last step of the marriage green card process is the interview which is scheduled by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) if the spouse seeking a green card lives in the United States and by the National Visa Center (NVC) if they live abroad. I understand how hard and difficult this process is for many of you, so today we're here to discuss how to prepare for your marriage-based green card interview. Although this interview may still be months away, knowing what to expect will help you feel more confident and prepared when that important day comes. So in this video, we will talk about preparing for the marriage-based green card interview so that you don't experience a denial of your green card application.

GUEST HOST: Lou Pate filling in for Steve Hook.  GUEST OVERVIEW: Ken is an American lawyer and politician who served as the senior official performing the duties of the Deputy Secretary of Homeland Security from 2019 to 2021. A member of the Republican Party, he also served as the Principal Deputy and Senior Official Performing the Duties of the Director of U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) and was Attorney General of Virginia from 2010 to 2014.

In late September, DHS and USCIS released new resources about the Naturalization Test Redesign.  This prompted updated commentary from VOA News, ILRC, Bill Bliss, and other stakeholders.  In order to address and clarify to redesign process, USCIS will be hosting NIICE: National Immigrant Integration & Citizenship Education Conference, October 18-19, in Washington D.C. Plus resources to contact CONGRESS about the potential Government shutdown.  And a QUICK CITIZENSHIP QUIZ that connects the Constitution, the Fed Code, and Adult Education. 7/19/2023 Naturalization Test Redesign Resources (DHS, USCIS)  DHS Office of the Citizenship and Immigration Services Ombudsman webpage July 19, 2023 Engagement with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) on the Naturalization Test Redesign Initiative July 19, 2023 Naturalization Test Redesign Updates Power Point Presentation PDF648.78 KB0 July 19, 2023 Naturalization Test Redesign Initiative Readout PDF230.72 KB07/19/2023 July, 19, 2023 USCIS and Office of CIS Ombudsman's Webinar Series: Naturalization Test Redesign Updates VIDEO!  USCIS Naturalization Test Redesign Development 2022 webpage See also LINCS and Lynne Weintraub's Citizenship News posts for further comments. 9/19/2023: Citizenship Test Changes Might Require Better English Skills, VOA “Possible changes to the naturalization interview would make civics questions multiple choice to “reflect current best practices in test design,” USCIS said in a document explaining the update to the test. Schmelzer said that would make the test harder for immigrants who may not have a great understanding of American history or English.” Article includes audio and quiz.  You can watch a sub-titled video of VOA Learning English Podcast for Wednesday September 20, 2023. The Citizenship story starts at 11:08.  Appropriate for intermediate ESL adult learners.  09/20/2023 USCIS Naturalization Test Redesign – Flaws in Design and Transparency, ILRC ILRC attorneys and guest speaker Bill Bliss gave an overview of the USCIS naturalization test redesign announced in December 2022. Educators of low-literacy adults believe that these changes would make the test significantly more difficult for applicants. This is a free webinar. Click 9/20 USCIS Naturalization Test Redesign; create account; checkout; go to your account to view the recording.      Note: webinar resources include slides (note: slide 31 “Register comments” for email addresses), “English and US History & Government Tests” (from ILRC Naturalization & US Citizenship, and recent articles by Bill Bliss. A transcript of Bill Bliss's interview was posted as Medium: 9/22 USCIS Naturalization Test Redesign — Flaws in Design and Transparency. 10/17/2023 to 10/18/2023 NIICE: National Immigrant Integration & Citizenship Education Conference: THE ROAD TO ACCESS AND INCLUSION, USCIS Headquarters, Camp Springs, MD USCIS, in partnership with the White House Task Force on New Americans (TFNA) and the Interagency Naturalization Working Group (NWG), is bringing together professionals with equities in immigrant integration and citizenship education from both the public and private sectors. The conference is free; however, participants are responsible for transportation and lodging. The conference will take place October 17-18 with optional pre-conference activities on October 16. Virtual and in-person attendance options are available.  Please CAREULLY review the registration info under the NIICE website information and registration tabs. Please refer questions to: NIICEConference@uscis.dhs.gov. Resources to Contact CONGRESS about the Potential Government Shutdown Voice of America (VOA) US News VOA US Immigration News VOA Learrning English House.gov Senate.gov uscitizenpod: Who are my U.S. Senators and U.S. Representative? uscitizenpod: National Adult Education and Family Literacy Week Civics Quiz      

The K-3 visa is for the foreign spouse of a U.S. citizen. It was designed to shorten the physical separation between the foreign national and his or her U.S. citizen spouse. Specifically, it allows foreign nationals to enter the United States to await approval of the immigrant visa petition. K-3 visa recipients subsequently apply to adjust status to a permanent resident (green card holder) so that he or she may live permanently in the U.S. with their spouse. However, for most applicants, the K-3 visa isn't worth it. In 2019, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) issued only five K-3 visas. Since the K-3 visa processing can take a while, it sometimes takes just as long as it would to directly get your marriage green card. Suppose you and your spouse are already married with a pending Form I-130. In that case, you should probably directly apply for a green card via consular processing, which takes the same time. Once you arrive in the United States with an approved green card, you can work immediately as a permanent resident without having to file additional applications.

GUEST OVERVIEW: Kenneth Thomas Cuccinelli II (/ˈkuːtʃɪˈnɛli/ KOO-chi-NEL-ee; born July 30, 1968) is an American lawyer and politician who served as the senior official performing the duties of the Deputy Secretary of Homeland Security from 2019 to 2021. A member of the Republican Party, he also served as the Principal Deputy and Senior Official Performing the Duties of the Director of U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) and was Attorney General of Virginia from 2010 to 2014.

In part three of our multi-part series on changes to the Form I-9, Tiffany Coburn and Meagan Dziura provide insights into the alternative procedure for remote verification of employment in light of the recent changes in policies instituted by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Specifically, our speakers discuss the threshold requirements for employers to qualify to use this alternative procedure, which can help meet physical examination requirements for Forms I-9 completed remotely under the COVID-19 temporary flexibilities and also permits permanent virtual verification in lieu of physically examining Form I-9 documentation. Meagan and Tiffany also generally discuss E-Verify, what it means to be in good standing with E-Verify, and how to establish a general policy for using the alternative procedure consistently.

To get an employer-sponsored green card, a United States company will file various immigration forms with the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) on the employee's behalf. The employer is considered the petitioner (the party filing the immigrant petition with USCIS), and the employee is the Beneficiary (the party directly receiving immigration benefits). Based on the employer's actions on the employee's behalf, the employer is considered the sponsor.

If you're planning to help a spouse immigrate to the United States, you'll likely need to file Form I-130 (Petition for Alien Relative) and Form I-130A (Supplemental Information for a Spouse Beneficiary) with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). It's the start of an immigration journey that won't always be straightforward. So it's wise to educate yourself on the process and requirements to minimize potential problems that result in delays. After all, quick approval of the spousal petition aims to help your husband or wife immigrate.

THE TIM JONES AND CHRIS ARPS SHOW 0:00 SEG 1 Rob Law, former Chief of Policy at U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), talks about the ongoing push to hold Sec. Mayorkas accountable for the border crisishttps://twitter.com/the_roblaw   17:50 SEG 2 Guy Cortise, Retired Navy SEAL, talks about his time as a Navy SEAL, having his mask fill with blood during a dive, whether a woman will make it through Navy Seal training, how diverse his class was in 1976, practicing law, joining the reserves, and working with fellow SEAL, Larry Fowler https://www.navyseal.com/larry-fowler-podcast/  36:34 SEG 3 Joe Biden is in NYC doing some softball interviews and fundraising today https://newstalkstl.com/   FOLLOW TIM - https://twitter.com/SpeakerTimJones   FOLLOW CHRIS - https://twitter.com/chris_arps   24/7 LIVESTREAM - http://bit.ly/newstalkstlstream   RUMBLE - https://rumble.com/NewsTalkSTL  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The requirements for petitioning a foreign citizen spouse for permanent residence (green card) are more exhaustive than any other relationship. When filing Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative, the petitioner must submit supporting documents to evidence the relationship, because immigration officials from the U.S. Department of State and U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) have an additional layer of scrutiny for spousal relationships. After all, sham marriages are one of the most common ways to commit green card fraud. So immigration officials want to be sure that your spouse obtains a green card based on a genuine relationship.

HOUR 1Former President Donald Trump defends himself against allegations he mishandled classified documents on 'Special Report. / (FOX News) https://www.foxnews.com/video/6329751193112?fbclid=IwAR395LZRETWm5D_QYe5dekrlgrXxqeYw8AH-IU_A8TVWHP1G9qgE6_zBN5kAmerica First Policy Institute's Rob Law, former Chief of Policy at U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) discusses the ongoing push to hold Secretary Mayorkas accountable for our U.S. border crisis. [last 2 segments / 1st Hour]HOUR 2The U.S. Coast Guard is continuing a search and rescue mission for a missing submersible that was exploring the wreckage of the Titanic. / (CBS News) https://www.cbsnews.com/video/inside-the-missing-titanic-exploration-sub/Secretary Blinken meeting in China concludes / (NBC) https://www.nbcnews.com/news/world/blinken-xi-meet-talks-china-visit-rcna89984Europe's Airbus announced the biggest plane deal in history on the opening day of the Paris Airshow on Monday, with an order for 500 narrowbody jets from Indian budget carrier IndiGo / (CNBC?) https://www.cnbc.com/2023/06/19/airbus-wins-record-500-plane-order-from-indias-indigo.html?A press release was sent from the office of Gov. Mike Dunleavy revealing the items vetoed when the governor signed the Fiscal Year 2024 state operating and capital budgets yesterday / (ANS) https://www.alaskasnewssource.com/2023/06/19/governor-issues-vetoes-2024-fiscal-year-budget/Tom and Charles talk about school funding and the Gov's vetoesTodd Smoldon, Gov Dunleavy's Mat-Su office director  on school funding and vetoes 

Calgary immigration lawyer Evelyn Ackah explains the NAFTA TN visa for Canadians, a non-immigrant visa that allows citizens of Canada to work in the United States in a professional occupation. The TN visa is a part of the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA), which was created in 1994. NAFTA was replaced by the United States–Mexico–Canada Agreement (USMCA) in 2018 and went into effect on July 1, 2020. The USMCA is a modernized version of NAFTA that includes new provisions on labor, environmental protection and digital trade.The TN Visa program provides a streamlined process for Canadians to obtain a U.S. work permit. For a Canadian who wants a NAFTA TN Visa, you must be a citizen of Canada and have a job offer in the United States in a professional occupation. The list of eligible occupations is published by the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).The North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) makes it possible for Canadian citizens to work in the United States on a TN visa. The TN visa is a non-immigrant visa that allows Canadian citizens to work in the United States in a professional occupation. If you are interested in working in the United States on a TN visa, I encourage you to listen to my podcast. In this podcast, I will discuss the following topicsWhat is a TN visa?Who is eligible for the TN visa?What are the requirements for a TN visa?How to apply for a TN visa?What are the benefits of the TN visa?About Evelyn AckahEvelyn Ackah is the Founder and Managing Lawyer at Ackah Business Immigration Law. We work with individuals and business owners from all over the world who want to cross borders seamlessly. For more information on immigration to Canada or the United States, Ask Evelyn Ackah at Ackah Business Immigration Law today at (403) 452‑9515 or email Evelyn directly at contact@ackahlaw.com.The Ask Canada Immigration Lawyer Evelyn Ackah podcast by Calgary Immigration Lawyer Evelyn Ackah was named #1 Best Canada Immigration Podcast in 2022 by Feedspot.BOOK YOUR FREE CASE EVALUATION

It has been an eventful year for U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). In this podcast, Awanti Damle and Kara Lancaster, members of Ogletree Deakins' Immigration Practice Group, provide a rapid-fire and informative summary of the top five immigration topics for employers. Awanti and Kara discuss proposed increases in filing fees for certain visa petitions, including H-1B and L-1 petitions, and the phased expansion of premium processing for some nonimmigrant and immigrant visa types. They also provide insight on pay transparency laws applicable for employers recruiting foreign nationals, the waiver of an in-person interview in the visa stamping process for some types of applications, and whether there will be an additional selection round in the annual H-1B lottery.

Are you interested in becoming a permanent resident of the U.S.? Today I will discuss how to obtain a Permanent Resident Card, commonly called a green card. This document allows you to live and work in the U.S. indefinitely. And with a mini-story, you will practice your speaking skills. Hi there! I'm Georgiana, your English teacher. Thanks for joining me for a new episode. My mission is to help you speak English fluently with no grammar and no textbooks. And, if you want to help me, it's very simple, just share the podcast with your friends. That would mean a lot. Thanks! Before we begin, I suggest you get the transcript from my website. SpeakEnglishPodcast.com Okay! Let's start! A "green card" is a plastic card with the individual's biographic information, photo, fingerprint, and expiration date issued by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services. The card once called the "green card" has kept its nickname, even though it is now yellowish and has a barcode on the back. The Permanent Resident Card is valid for ten years and must be renewed. However, the cardholder's status as a "permanent resident" remains valid unless the status is abandoned or revoked by the U.S. government. Becoming a permanent resident gives you the right to live in the U.S. permanently, work in any legal job you are qualified for, be protected by all U.S., state, and local laws, and vote in local elections that don't require U.S. citizenship. There are several other ways of obtaining it, but the most common way to get the Permanent Resident Card is through family sponsorship. If you have a U.S. citizen relative, they can submit a petition to the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) on your behalf. The petition must be accepted before you can apply for the card. Another common way to get a green card is through a job offer. An American employer can file a petition to the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) in your favor if they can prove that no other qualified American workers can fulfill the role and that you are the best fit for the job. As you can see, obtaining a green card can be a long and complex process. That's why it's important to consult an immigration lawyer to understand the steps and see if you are eligible. With the proper guidance, you can make your dream of living and working in the U.S. a reality.   Get the full text on my website: speakenglishpodcast.com/podcast/

In this episode, we discuss the recent policy guidance issued by the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) on calculating child's age under the Child Status Protection Act (CSPA). We discuss the confusion that arose in 2015 with the Department of State's Visa Bulletin's two-chart system and the implications of USCIS's decision to use either the final action date chart or the filing date chart for CSPA calculations. Learn how this policy update will impact applicants filing adjustment of status, the potential to file a motion to reopen for denied cases, and the relief it brings to families facing the risk of their children aging out. Don't miss this essential information on navigating the complexities of US immigration policy!

In this video, we will be discussing interview waivers for green cards. An interview waiver allows certain green card applicants to skip the in-person interview with a U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) officer, streamlining the application process. We will cover who is eligible for interview waivers, the criteria USCIS uses to determine if an interview can be waived, and the benefits and drawbacks of using an interview waiver. Additionally, we will provide tips for preparing a strong application to increase your chances of being granted an interview waiver. We will also discuss what to expect if USCIS requests additional information or denies your request for an interview waiver. By the end of this video, you will have a better understanding of interview waivers for green cards and whether they are a viable option for your particular situation.

Martine recounts her personal journey as a stateless person and undocumented immigrant; narrating how her seven-year battle with the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) and Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) eventually resulted in her gaining U.S. citizenship. Martine's website: illegalamongus.com OR martinekalaw.com

In February 2021, we began publishing articles detailing the extensive backlogs and processing delays at U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) and how these delays have impacted foreign nationals, their families and U.S. employers.It has been more than twenty-one (21) months since President Biden took office and while the Biden-Harris Administration has made many promises to modernize the immigration system and enact comprehensive and compassionate immigration reforms, it has been exceptionally slow to deliver meaningful changes that positively impact foreign nationals, their families and U.S. employers.In this episode we are going to discuss the Current Backlogs and Processing Times, tell you about a new piece of legislation that promises to alleviate some of the delays and at the end of the podcast we have some tips for employers and foreign nations that can help to minimize the time it takes to process your petition.To arrange a consultation contact us here https://meyner.com

Dr. Shibley discusses how she became involved in psychological evaluations for US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) and immigration court and how mental health professionals can play an important role in helping this diverse and often disempowered population of immigrants and their families. Dr. Mariela G. Shibley is a clinical and forensic psychologist with a private practice in San Diego, California. In addition to specializing in issues related to acculturation, immigration, and trauma, she is a leading expert in conducting psychological evaluations for USCIS and Immigration Court. She has conducted and supervised over 2,000 such evaluations and provided court testimony, training, and education on immigration and mental health. A regular guest speaker at conferences of the American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA), Dr. Shibley is recognized for her knowledge and expertise in this area. She is the founder of PsychEvalCoach, an online training program for mental health professionals, and her book, Conducting Immigration Evaluations, is scheduled to be released in April 2022. The link for the training program is www.psychevalcoach.com and the book: Conducting Immigration Evaluations: A Practical Guide for Mental Health Professionals. https://www.routledge.com/Conducting-Immigration-Evaluations-A-Practical-Guide-for-Mental-Health/Shibley-Holt/p/book/9780367689988

In 2007, Pankajkumar Patel, who had entered the United States illegally with his wife Jyotsnaben in the 1990s, applied to United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) for discretionary adjustment of status under 8 U. S. C. §1255, which would have made Patel and his wife lawful permanent residents. Because USCIS was aware that Patel had previously checked a box on a Georgia driver's license application falsely stating that he was a United States citizen, it denied Patel's application for failure to satisfy the threshold requirement that the noncitizen be statutorily admissible for permanent residence. §1255(i)(2)(A); see also §1182(a)(6)(C)(ii)(I) (rendering inadmissible a noncitizen “who falsely represents . . . himself or herself to be a citizen of the United States for any purpose or benefit under” state or federal law). Years later, the Government initiated removal proceedings against Patel and his wife due to their illegal entry. Patel sought relief from removal by renewing his adjustment of status request. Patel argued before an Immigration Judge that he had mistakenly checked the “citizen” box on the state application and thus lacked the subjective intent necessary to violate the federal statute. The Immigration Judge disagreed, denied Patel's application for adjustment of status, and ordered that Patel and his wife be removed from the country. The Board of Immigration Appeals dismissed Patel's appeal. Patel petitioned the Eleventh Circuit for review, where a panel of that court held that it lacked jurisdiction to consider his claim. Federal law prohibits judicial review of “any judgment regarding the granting of relief” under §1255. §1252(a)(2)(B)(i). But see §1252(a)(2)(D) (exception where the judgment concerns “constitutional claims” or “questions of law”). The panel reasoned that the factual determinations of which Patel sought review—whether he had testified credibly and whether he had subjectively intended to misrepresent himself as a citizen—each qualified as an unreviewable judgment. On rehearing, the en banc court agreed with the panel. This Court granted certiorari to resolve a Circuit conflict as to the scope of §1252(a)(2)(B)(i). Held: Federal courts lack jurisdiction to review facts found as part of discretionary-relief proceedings under §1255 and the other provisions enumerated in §1252(a)(2)(B)(i). Pp. 6–17. Credit: Justia US Supreme Court, available at: https://supreme.justia.com/cases/federal/us/596/20-979/ --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/scotus-opinions/support

In response to ongoing and extensive processing delays, on May 4, 2022, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) published a Temporary Final Rule (TFR), which automatically extends the employment authorization documents (EADs) of certain foreign nationals from 180 days to 540 days.But who is eligible for the 540-day automatic extension? Listen to this week's podcast and find out!

On March 30, 2022, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS or the Agency) published a final rule that expands premium processing service for additional immigration benefits, which will become effective on Tuesday, May 31, 2022.

In this podcast, Kara Lancaster and Derek Maka discuss recent updates U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has made to its policy on work authorization for H-4, L-2, and E dependent spouses. The speakers explain the differences within USCIS's new guidance, the filing strategies employers may see H-4, L-2, and E dependent spouses use to benefit from these changes, as well as the I-9 implications for employers.

“No borders. No walls. No USA at all.”      Chant by Antifa rioters marching in the streets of Denver.   With Ukraine and Russia dominating the headlines, America seems to have lost focus on the border - and the war - that really counts. It's not Ukraine, it's America's southern border with Mexico. The Biden Administration seems simply to have “opened it up.” Completely. And what's happening is an ongoing catastrophe that's fueling illegal immigration, human trafficking and drug smuggling. People from over 100 countries around the world have crossed the border illegally in the last year. We need to focus on this war on our own border here, at home - a strange war where it seems our adversary is our own federal government. What the Biden administration is doing is not incompetence at protecting our border, it's a deliberate policy to open it up. But we don't have to wait for a change in the Administration. “A plain reading of the Constitution gives border state governors war powers under Article 1, Section 10, Clause 3 to interdict and remove illegal aliens to Mexico without the permission of the federal government” says former Trump homeland security official Ken Cuccinelli. If the federal government won't protect the southern border, the states themselves can; moreover, governors from non-border states can also send help. Explaining how this could happen are my guests on this episode, principals in an exciting new policy shop, the Center for Renewing America. Russ Vought, the Center's president, Director of the Office of Management and Budget  for President Trump's full term in office, responsible for overseeing the implementation of the President's policy, management, and deregulatory agendas across the entire Executive Branch. And Ken Cuccinelli, Deputy Secretary of Homeland Security (DHS) and Director of U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) under President Trump. Ken also served as Attorney General of Virginia, where he was the first in the country to sue over Obamacare, and made critical advances against human trafficking, health care fraud, gangs and child exploitation. This is a fascinating discussion, and not only about how we might deal with our border crisis, but also the many ways we could get a federal government that works for us, rather than the other way around.

Martine Kalaw is the CEO and president of Martine Kalaw Enterprises, LLC; a consultancy focused on learning & development, human resources, and diversity, equity & inclusion for corporations, organizations, and nonprofits. She holds a Master's in Public Administration focusing on immigration law from Syracuse University's Maxwell School and has authored two books, Illegal Among Us: A Stateless Woman's Quest for Citizenship and The ABCs of Diversity: A Managers Guide to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. As an organizational development expert, Martine has single-handedly built and executed onboarding solutions, management and leadership programs, global mentorship programs consisting of 400+ employees, and designed and customized training for Macy's, Xaxis, Wheels Up, and Education First. Martine transforms the implicit biases of working professionals and leads “heavy” conversations related to race and legal status. She specifically focuses on unconscious beliefs towards blacks and immigrants through workshops and seminars while also equipping companies with training to up-skill new managers. Martine partners with global professionals to implement learning and workforce development strategies and solutions incorporating race and biases, manager training, and inter/intra department communication. Her soft skills curriculum is popular with late-stage startups experiencing pangs due to a merger, an acquisition, exponential growth, or a sudden reduction in business.A passionate DE&I consultant, Martine has written for publications like Huffington Post and has delivered a TEDx talk on immigration policies as they relate to equity and inclusion. She's also appeared on C-span.Outside of her work, Martine contributes thought leadership around immigration reform. She's spoken at Senator McCain's 2006 Town Hall Rally on Immigration and the U.S. House of Representative's Judiciary Subcommittee's 2007 hearing on Immigration Reform. Her story has appeared in USA Today, Metro New York, and The New York Sun. Martine is also the founder and executive director of Stateless and Dreamers Foundation (SAD), which she created after her seven-year battle with the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) and Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), which eventually led to her U.S. citizenship. SAD provides guidance and practical tools that stateless persons and undocumented immigrants can use to navigate between lawyers and the courts more effectively.The A World of Difference Podcast is brought to you in partnership with Missio Alliance.Stay In Touch: Connect on Facebook and Instagram with thoughts, questions, and feedback. Rate, review and share this podcast with anyone that would love to listen.   Find Us Online: @aworldof.difference on Instagram and A World of Difference on Facebook, on Twitter at @loriadbr & on Clubhouse @loriadbr.https://linktr.ee/aworldofdifference or loriadamsbrown.comInterested in one-on-one or group coaching on how to live a life that makes a difference? Check out: https://www.loriadamsbrown.com/coachingDid you know that podcasts are a great way to grow your personal and business brand voice?Go to https://kitcaster.com/difference/ to apply for a special offer for friends of this podcast.Here's the secret, we all want to feel connected to brands we buy from. What better way to humanize a brand than through sharing your story on a podcast.Kitcaster is a podcast booking agency that specializes in developing real human connections through podcast appearances.If you are an expert in your field, have a unique story to share, or an interesting point of view-- it's time to explore the world of podcasting with Kitcaster.You can expect a completely customized concierge service from our staff of communication experts. Kitcaster is your secret weapon in podcasting for business. Your audience is waiting to hear from you.Mentioned in this episode:Join Difference MakersJoin us in our membership community for exclusive content for only $5/month at https://www.patreon.com/aworldofdifference. We go deeper with each guest, and it makes such a difference.PatreonDo you want to go deeper?Join us in Difference Makers, a community where we watch and discuss exclusive content that truly makes a difference. Give us $5 a month (the price of a latte), and join in on the conversation with our host Lori and others who want to make a difference. We'd love to have you join us!PatreonThis podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Chartable - https://chartable.com/privacyPodtrac - https://analytics.podtrac.com/privacy-policy-gdrp

Martine Kalaw is the CEO and president ofhttps://martinekalaw.com/ ( Martine Kalaw Enterprises, LLC); a consultancy focused on learning & development, human resources, and diversity, equity & inclusion for corporations, organizations, and nonprofits. She holds a Master's in Public Administration focusing on immigration law from Syracuse University's Maxwell School and has authored two books, https://amzn.to/3rDp3Ng (Illegal Among Us: A Stateless Woman's Quest for Citizenship) and https://amzn.to/3gRXVUV (The ABCs of Diversity: A Managers Guide to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion.) As an organizational development expert, Martine has single-handedly built and executed onboarding solutions, management and leadership programs, global mentorship programs consisting of 400+ employees, and designed and customized training for Macy's, Xaxis, Wheels Up, and Education First. Martine transforms the implicit biases of working professionals and leads “heavy” conversations related to race and legal status. She specifically focuses on unconscious beliefs towards blacks and immigrants through workshops and seminars while also equipping companies with training to up-skill new managers. Martine partners with global professionals to implement learning and workforce development strategies and solutions incorporating race and biases, manager training, and inter/intra department communication. Her soft skills curriculum is popular with late-stage startups experiencing pangs due to a merger, an acquisition, exponential growth, or a sudden reduction in business. A passionate DE&I consultant, Martine has written for publications like Huffington Post and has delivered a https://www.ted.com/talks/martine_kalaw_the_value_of_investing_versus_helping (TEDx talk )on immigration policies as they relate to equity and inclusion. She's also appeared on C-span. Outside of her work, Martine contributes thought leadership around immigration reform. She's spoken at Senator McCain's 2006 Town Hall Rally on Immigration and the U.S. House of Representative's Judiciary Subcommittee's 2007 hearing on Immigration Reform. Her story has appeared in USA Today, Metro New York, and The New York Sun. Martine is also the founder and executive director of Stateless and Dreamers Foundation (SAD), which she created after her seven-year battle with the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) and Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), which eventually led to her U.S. citizenship. SAD provides guidance and practical tools that stateless persons and undocumented immigrants can use to navigate between lawyers and the courts more effectively. The A World of Difference Podcast is brought to you in partnership with https://www.missioalliance.org/ (Missio Alliance). Stay In Touch: Connect on Facebook and Instagram with thoughts, questions, and feedback. Rate, review and share this podcast with anyone that would love to listen.   Find Us Online: https://www.instagram.com/aworldof.difference/ (@aworldof.difference) on Instagram and https://www.facebook.com/A-World-of-Difference-613933132591673/ (A World of Difference) on Facebook, on Twitter at https://twitter.com/loriadbr (@loriadbr) & on Clubhouse https://www.joinclubhouse.com/@loriadbr (@loriadbr).https://linktr.ee/aworldofdifference (https://linktr.ee/aworldofdifference) or http://loriadamsbrown.com/ (loriadamsbrown.com)Interested in one-on-one or group coaching on how to live a life that makes a difference? Check out: https://www.loriadamsbrown.com/coaching (https://www.loriadamsbrown.com/coaching) Did you know that podcasts are a great way to grow your personal and business brand voice? Go to https://kitcaster.com/difference/ (https://kitcaster.com/difference/) to apply for a special offer for friends of this podcast. Here's the secret, we all want to feel connected to brands we buy from. What better way to humanize a brand than through sharing your story on a podcast.

Professor Greg Jackson joins Tim to talk about what it takes to pass the American citizenship test, what's on it, and what all means. Do you think you could pass the test? You may be surprised. You may know Greg from previous episodes where we discussed George Washington, the history of the American Flag, or the history of the U.S. Capitol building. Greg is a historian and history professor at Utah Valley University. And he's the host of the very popular podcast called, “History that Doesn't Suck.” In this episode, we explore the test to become an American citizen. https://traffic.libsyn.com/secure/shapingopinion/Citizenship_Test_auphonic.mp3 Less than two years ago, The Woodrow Wilson National Fellowship Foundation decided to conduct a test to find out just how much Americans actually know about their country, its history and what it means to be a citizen. The country failed. But let's be more specific. The survey found that two out of three Americans would not pass the test that's required to become a U.S. Citizen. First, a little background on that test. Before an immigrant to the United States can take the Oath of U.S. Citizenship, he or she must pass a naturalization test that's administered by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). It's a two-part test. There is a civics test. And there is an English language test. While some accommodations may be made for age and physical limitation, applicants for citizenship are expected to demonstrate they can read, write and speak words in ordinary and daily usage in the English language. And they have to demonstrate that they have a basic knowledge and understanding of American history, government and tradition. So, when the Woodrow Wilson National Fellowship Foundation, conducted its survey, here are some highlights – or lowlights – of what it found. Only 13 percent, or almost 1 out of 10 Americans knew that the Constitution was ratified in June 1788. Most thought it was 1776 when the Declaration of Independence was signed. 60 percent, that's 6 out of 10 Americans, did not know the countries the U.S. fought against in World War Two. More than half of those surveyed did not know how many justices are on the U.S. Supreme Court. There are nine. People who were 65 years old and older scored best with 74 percent answering at least 6 out of 10 questions correctly. Those 45 years old and younger did the worst. Only 19 percent were able to pass the exam. I know what you're wondering right now. You're wondering if you could pass the exam yourself.  Well, before you try to answer that, we decided this may be a good time to take the mystery out of the test. Links History that Doesn't Suck Podcast Greg Jackson, Utah Valley University Sample Civics Test, U.S. Citizenship & Immigration Services 12 Years a Slave, by Solomon Northup (Barnes & Noble) Narrative Life of Frederick Douglass, by Frederick Douglass (Barnes & Noble) Ken Burns' Documentaries, Barnes & Noble About this Episode's Guest Prof. Greg Jackson Dr. Greg Jackson is best known for being the Creator, Head Writer, and Host of History That Doesn't Suck and contributing as a historical consultant to the podcast American Elections: Wicked Game. Greg is Associate Professor of Integrated Studies and Assistant Director of National Security Studies at Utah Valley University, where he teaches courses spanning US, European, and Middle Eastern history. Greg earned his Ph.D. in history from the University of Utah. When Greg isn't researching, teaching, or podcasting, he's usually hanging with his family, cycling, rock climbing, or indulging his love of languages. Greg speaks fluent French, rusty-but-conversational Spanish, and has some working ability in Arabic and Classical Latin.