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Anonymous 11/27/2006Great program. Highly recommended.
Anonymous 11/03/2006excellent pod cast!!
Anonymous 09/17/2006Awesome! We're planning to open up a US branch of the family business and this podcast was exactly what we were looking for: unbiased, accurate and easy-to-understand information about the ...
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H1b holder 08/30/2006Excellent show! PLEEEASE keep it up. I just learned about it today and I'm on my way to finish listening all the shows.
A big thank you!!!!!!!!
A little critique: please raise the volume of s...
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Pavel S. 08/22/2006Very good program with lots of information for those who are planning to migrate to the US legally (or have friends/family in that situation).
The lawyers and their guests keep their topics'...
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Episodes
- Immigration Fridays | How to study in the US
(16mb)
Fri, 16 Sep 2005 08:00:00 EST
During our first podcast, we discuss the process for obtaining a student visa. Podcast includes interview with International Students Office's Director at FIU (Florida International University in Miami, Fl). - Immigration Fridays | Evaluating Foreign Educational Credentials in the US (17mb)
Fri, 23 Sep 2005 08:00:00 EST
In our second show, the topic of discussion is Foreign Education Evaluation. Guest of the day is Josef Silny, a professional evaluator of foreign educational credentials. - Immigration Fridays | PERM Labor Certification (15mb)
Fri, 30 Sep 2005 08:00:00 EST
In our third program, we're discussing PERM labor certification and the differences between the old system and the new system --labor cert is the preliminary process for obtaining a green card based on an offer of employment from a US-based company - Immigration Fridays | PERM Labor Certification and Permanent Residency Process (17mb)
Fri, 07 Oct 2005 08:00:00 EST
In our fourth program, we continue discussing PERM labor certification--labor cert is the preliminary process for obtaining a green card based on an offer of employment from a US-based company. Today we are focusing on processing times and visa availability for obtaining a green card or legal permanent residency - Immigration Fridays | Visa Retrogression (17mb)
Fri, 14 Oct 2005 08:00:00 EST
In our fifth program, we spoke about how employment-based immigration is nearing a crisis as long backlogs or wait times for immigrant visas make it unlikely that professionals and/or skilled workers obtain green cards or work permits for the rest of the year - Immigration Fridays | Upcoming Immigration Reform - Reality or Illusion? (22mb)
Fri, 21 Oct 2005 08:00:00 EST
In our sixth program, we discuss the recently signed Homeland Security Appropriations Act for 2006 and President Bush's statements regarding immigration reform, immigration enforcement and a guest worker program. Our guest today is Representative Steve Tobocman from the 12th District of Michigan. He discusses the national and local effects of recent laws, including the REAL ID Act as well as considers the future effect of current immigration proposals - Immigration Fridays | Upcoming Immigration Reform - Reality or Illusion, continued (17mb)
Fri, 28 Oct 2005 08:00:00 EST
In our seventh program we continue discussing recent proposals for immigration reform, immigration enforcement and a guest worker program. Our focus is on four bills introduced in Congress by Republican Senator Chuck Hagel, which include border security, employer verification of work authorization, temporary worker program (or "guest worker program") earned legalization, eradicating H-1B caps for foreign students with higher degrees, and other important changes to current immigration regulations and also to the US Immigration and Nationality Act itself - Immigration Fridays | H-3 Training Visas (19mb)
Fri, 04 Nov 2005 08:00:00 EST
In our seventh program, we discuss how these temporary visas are available for individuals who want to come to the U.S. and inter or train with an institution or company in the U.S. H-3 Training Visas are underutilized and can provide many opportunities to individuals abroad as well as to individuals who are already here in the U.S. The podcast explains the H-3 visa requirements, eligibility and maximum period of stay in that status - Immigration Fridays | Nuts and Bolts of PERM (20mb)
Fri, 11 Nov 2005 08:00:00 EST
In our eighth program, we discuss the new US Department of Labor ("DOL") program that began March 28, 2005 and requires employers to file an electric labor certification application for any position for which a foreign worker is sought and for which DOL certification is required. This new program is known as "PERM" which stands for Program Electric Review Management. Labor Certification if the first step towards obtaining employer-sponsored legal permanent residency or a "Green Card". This Friday we focus on the recruitment, or advertisements, for the position that is required before filing the application with the DOL. - Immigration Fridays | Prevailing Wage Issues in Immigration Cases (20mb)
Fri, 18 Nov 2005 08:00:00 EST
Our invited guest speaker, in our ninth program, is Steve Grogan, a wage analyst and owner/president of Alien Prevailing Wage Determination, Inc. This subject is critical for all employment-sponsored permanent residency, or Green Card, applications as well as for H-1B applications where employers must provide evidence that they are paying foreign workers the prevailing wage and of their ability to pay that wage. In some cases, employers may provide alternative wage information where they are unable to meet the Department of Labor's prevailing wage determinations. That evidence is crucial to the success of H-1B, Labor Certification and Immigrant Visa Applications submitted to the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Service. - Immigration Fridays | Consular Processing - Part 1 (20mb)
Fri, 25 Nov 2005 08:00:00 EST
In our tenth program we focus on nonimmigrant visa processing and discuss the theories and policies behind requiring in-person interviews as well as practical tips for obtaining visa stamps abroad. In the next podcast we will continue to discuss consular processing with a focus on immigrant visa processing. - Immigration Fridays | Consular Processing - Part 2 (19mb)
Fri, 02 Dec 2005 08:00:00 EST
In our eleventh program we focus on immigrant visa processing. We discuss eligibility, the general application process, processing times, filing tips, tips for the immigrant visa interview at the U.S. Consulate abroad. - Immigration Fridays | Family Based Immigration - I-130 Petition For Alien Relative (21mb)
Fri, 09 Dec 2005 08:00:00 EST
In our twelfth program we discuss the basic eligibility requirements, preference categories, procedures, processing times an documentation needed to sponsor a relative for permanent residency in the U.S. We also discuss a couple of examples, in response to questions sent by e-mail communication. - Immigration Fridays | L-1, Intra-Company Transfer Visas (20mb)
Fri, 16 Dec 2005 08:00:00 EST
In our thirteenth program we discuss general eligibility requirements, for both the corporate entity as well as for the individual. We also discuss types of qualifying relationships, duration of stay, and basic procedures required to obtain the L-1 visa. In this podcast we focus on the L-1A visa for an Intra-Company Manager or Executive with a preview of the requirements for processing legal permanent residency (or the "Green Card") for L-1A visa holders. - Immigration Fridays | L-1, Intra-Company Transfer Visas Part 2 (20mb)
Fri, 23 Dec 2005 08:00:00 EST
In our fourteenth program we discuss general eligibility requirements for L-1B, Specialized Knowledge Intra-Company Transfer Visas as well as some practical examples. We discuss the general eligibility requirements and procedures for participation in the L Blanket Program. In this podcast we also discuss the Foreign Affairs Manual's evidentiary requirements and what consular officers seek out when reviewing applications for visa issuance at ports abroad. - Immigration Fridays | Immigration Reform for 2006 (19mb)
Fri, 30 Dec 2005 08:00:00 EST
In our fifteenth program we discuss the hottest bills in Congress and the latest developments and changes to bills that will be up for discussion in next year's first session of Congress. Among the bills and proposals we discuss are HR 4437, or more popularly known as the Sensenbrenner bill. If passed, this bill would create an amendment to allow state and local authorities the inherent authority to enforce (federal) immigration laws; militarize the border including the construction of a fence between the U.S. and Mexico through three states; eliminate the diversity visa lottery; and, render a single DUI conviction a deportable offence. We also discuss H-1B cap and visa retrogression proposals and the DREAM Act. - Immigration Fridays | O-1 Non-Immigrant Visas (20mb)
Fri, 06 Jan 2006 08:00:00 EST
In our sixteenth program we discuss the different categories, evidence required for applications, basic procedure and validity periods of O visas. We discuss some real-life examples and provide tips for applying successfully. We also touch on the subject of applications for legal permanent residency based on extraordinary ability. which we will discuss at length in a future Podcast. - Immigration Fridays | O-1 Non-Immigrant Visas Part 2 (21mb)
Fri, 13 Jan 2006 08:00:00 EST
In our seventeenth program we discuss the process of obtaining consultations required for O visa approval, processing times and filing tips to obtain approvals and visa stamps in a timely manner. We also discuss O-2 visas for support personnel or "crew". - Immigration Fridays | E-2 Visas, wait times, and driver's license issues. (26mb)
Fri, 20 Jan 2006 08:00:00 EST
In our eighteenth program we answer questions regarding the wait times for immigrant visas, requirements for obtaining driver's licenses, and the qualifications for E-2 visas for investors. This is the first podcast that mirrors our Spanish-language podcast. - Immigration Fridays | Consular Processing-Application DS-156 (28mb)
Fri, 27 Jan 2006 08:00:00 EST
In our nineteenth program we discuss consular processing of nonimmigrant visas, and specifically with the DS-156 appication. The attorneys answer two questions from listeners, received via telephone. The two questions involve issues of visa denial and re-application and regarding applicants who must disclose family members currently in the U.S. - Immigration Fridays | H-1B Visas Part 1 (22mb)
Fri, 03 Feb 2006 08:00:00 EST
In our twentieth program we answer two questions from listeners, received by telephone. The two questions involve the qualifications for obtaining H-1B status and changes of employer. This topic will be covered in several podcasts. This is the first part of the discussion on H-1B visas. - Immigration Fridays | Immigration Reform 2006 (33mb)
Fri, 10 Feb 2006 08:00:00 EST
In our twenty first program we discuss immigration reform with special guest, Mr. John Gay. He is the Senior Vice President of the National Restaurant Association and co-founder of EWIC (Essential Worker Immigration Coalition). We discuss the possible immigration reform that is being contemplated by the U.S. Congress at this moment. Specifically, it is likely that the Senate will take up these issues on or about March 2, 2006, with a possible bill being introduced on the Senate floor in the final week of March or in early April. Stay tuned for further news as it becomes available. - Immigration Fridays | H-1B Visas Part 2 (27mb)
Fri, 17 Feb 2006 08:00:00 EST
In our twenty second program we discuss H-1B visas for professionals. This is the second part of our Podcasts on the H-1B visas, as the first part was published on Friday, February 3rd. In this podcast the attorneys explain the minimum requirements and supporting documentation required for obtaining an H-1B visa, the process and location for filing, as well as a few specific cases provides as examples. - Immigration Fridays | E-2 Visas (26mb)
Fri, 24 Feb 2006 08:00:00 EST
In our twenty third program we discuss the general investment requirements to obtain an E-2 visa and gave examples of real cases that we have prepared in the firm. This program was requested by several e-mail communications from listeners, and we responded to a question from a caller during the Podcast. The caller requested we address the issue of opening a restaurant in the U.S. and using that as a basis for an E-2 application. - Immigration Fridays | PERM: Labor Certification; The Audit and Other Post Filing Issues (26mb)
Fri, 03 Mar 2006 08:00:00 EST
In our twenty fourth program we discuss the new labor certification process called "PERM", and specifically the issue of Dept. of Labor investigations in those cases as well as other issues that arise after filing the applications with the Dept. of Labor. We discuss the steps after filing the new form ETA 9089 electronically with the PERM site as well as examples of investigations received in our office. - Immigration Fridays | Immigration Reform (36mb)
Fri, 10 Mar 2006 08:00:00 EST
In our twenty fifth program we speak to Amman Kapoor and Sunnil Joshi who are founders of the organization "Immigration Voice", along with nine other individuals. This organization was born out of their own need for labor certifications and immigrant visa numbers to obtain permanent residency in the United States. They have engaged a renowned lobbying firm in Washington DC to represent their interests in reforming the labor certification process and raising the numerical limitation on immigrant visas for professionals. They hope to spread their message especially during this key time in the Senate's discussions on immigration reform. - Immigration Fridays | United States Citizenship (29mb)
Fri, 17 Mar 2006 08:00:00 EST
In our twenty sixth program we speak about the N-400 application. David J. Hart and Andrea Olivos-Kah talk about the requirements for obtaining U.S. Citizenship or naturalization, the application process and about the exam upon interview. They also discuss the difference between the domicile and physical presence requirements in order to qualify for U.S. citizenship. - Immigration Fridays | Consular Processing - Spousal Petition (37mb)
Fri, 24 Mar 2006 08:00:00 EST
In our twenty seventh program we speak about Consular Processing - Spousal Petition. We have on the phone with us, our own podcast co-host from Montreal Canada, Andrea Olivos-Kah. She explains to us her recent personal experience at the Consulate in Montreal. David and Andrea also touch the topic of filing the K-3 visa with the I-130 application. - Immigration Fridays | Immigration Reform: Is It For Real? (35mb)
Fri, 31 Mar 2006 08:00:00 EST
In our twenty eighth program we speak about immigration reform. We ask Mr. John Gay, the President of the restaurant workers organization and co-founder of the organization for skilled workers, his opinions regarding the possibility for passage of immigration reform. We also ask him specific information regarding the status of the current discussions in the Senate, and the votes and opinions of specific Senators and Representatives in Congress. - Immigration Fridays | Affidavit of Support (21mb)
Fri, 14 Apr 2006 08:00:00 EST
In our thirtieth program we speak about the Affidavit of Support. The attorneys discuss the general requirements of the Affidavit of Support, in what instances the affidavit is required, obtaining a co-sponsor in cases where the sponsor cannot meet the I-864 requirements, and other technical details for ensuring a successful application with U.S. Citizenship Immigration Services. - Immigration Fridays | Employment Authorization And Advance Parole While Adjustment Of Status Is Pending (24mb)
Fri, 21 Apr 2006 08:00:00 EST
In our thirty first program we speak about the Employment Authorization And Advance Parole. David Hart and Andrea Olivos-Kah discuss the regulations that authorize this benefit for those who are pending Adjustment of Status to Legal Permanent Resident, or the ?Green Card?. They discuss the technical aspects of the forms required to apply and where to file. They also discuss real cases, including those who have been advised not to travel abroad until obtaining legal permanent residence. - Immigration Fridays | Immigration Enforcement - Fact or Fiction? (27mb)
Fri, 28 Apr 2006 08:00:00 EST
In our thirty second program we speak about Immigration Enforcement. David Hart and Andrea Olivos-Kah discuss the April 20th announcement by U.S. Department of Homeland Security Secretary Michael Chertoff who declared that the sweeps and arrests in at least nine states constitute the greatest operation of its kind in the U.S. and the beginning of new measures against companies who hire undocumented workers. They also discuss the reports of sweeps and arrests of undocumented migrants in public places in various states, and speak with a witness of a sweep in Florida, by telephone. - Immigration Fridays | Ability to Pay (18mb)
Fri, 05 May 2006 08:00:00 EST
In our thirty third program, we discuss the ability of employer?s to pay the wage for permanent residency or consular processing. David Hart and Andrea Olivos-Kah discuss the regulations and requirements that must be met to ensure an approval of employer-sponsored residency processing. They give some examples from real cases, and also give some advice for the preparation of cases that require labor certification under PERM. - Immigration Fridays | Requests For Evidence or ?RFEs? (25mb)
Fri, 12 May 2006 08:00:00 EST
In our thirty fourth program we speak about RFEs. U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (?U.S. CIS?) may respond to applications for permanent immigration benefits (e.g., adjustment of status to permanent resident applications) or for temporary immigration benefits (e.g., H-1B visas) with an RFE. David Hart and Andrea Olivos-Kah discuss how to respond and the timing of those responses. They also talk about some examples of RFEs that they have seen recently. - Immigration Fridays | Updates on Current Immigration Reform Activities (23mb)
Fri, 19 May 2006 08:00:00 EST
In our thirty fifth program we speak about updates on current immigration reform activities. This week our program was taped Thursday with news and analyses regarding the activities in the Senate and the U.S. government?s activities in general in connection with proposals to reform our immigration system. David Hart and Andrea Olivos-Kah talk about the important amendments that were passed by a majority in the Senate, their significance, and the possibilities of obtaining a comprehensive proposal before the Memorial Day recess scheduled for Memorial Day, May 29th. - Immigration Fridays | The Senates Comprehensive Immigration Reform Bill, What Does It Mean? (19mb)
Fri, 26 May 2006 08:00:00 EST
Our thirty sixth program is the proposed immigration reform legislation that was passed yesterday 5/26/2006 in the U.S. Senate. This proposed legislation would affect, and reform, immigration laws as well as laws about the internal security of this country and labor laws. David Hart and Andrea Olivos-Kah talk about the different provisions of the proposed legislation and their significance. They also talk about the next steps in the Senate and in the House of Representatives, and the possibility of seeing immigration reform legislation come out of conference for President Bush?s signature this year. - Immigration Fridays | H-1B Visa Cap Filled (15mb)
Fri, 02 June 2006 08:00:00 EST
Our thirty seventh program is dedicated to the issue of the H-1B cap. On Thursday, the U.S. CIS announced that it had received sufficient H-1B petitions to fulfill the fiscal 2007 quota. This is the earliest that the H-1B quota has ever been reached. David Hart and Andrea Olivos-Kah discuss the fact that the number of available H-1B visas is clearly not sufficient to meet U.S. businesses demand, and discuss the situation that individuals and employers now find themselves in -- waiting until April 1, 2007 to file an application for October 1, 2007. - Immigration Fridays | U.S. Citizenship or Naturalization Interview (28mb)
Fri, 09 June 2006 08:00:00 EST
Our thirty eighth program is dedicated to the U.S. citizenship or naturalization interview. David Hart and Andrea Olivos-Kah discuss the basic requirements for applying, the documents required at interview, and also regarding the actual interview process. The requirements of physical presence and domicile are explained, since that issue may be confusing for some who are interested in applying for naturalization. - Immigration Fridays | Interior Enforcement And SSA Letters (23mb)
Fri, 16 June 2006 08:00:00 EST
Our thirty ninth program we speak about Interior Enforcement and SSA Letters. The Federal Register published a proposed new regulation on Wednesday 6/14 that once implemented will require U.S. employers to respond to SSA letters within 14 days and will impose specific processes for verifying work authorization of new employees. David Hart and Andrea Olivos-Kah discuss some aspects of this new law as well as the recent U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (or ?ICE?) investigations that have resulted in the arrest of several company representatives and in deportation orders. - Immigration Fridays | The Possibility for Immigration Reform Fades (24mb)
Fri, 23 June 2006 08:00:00 EST
Our fortieth program we speak about Immigration Reform. Considering recent public statements of Republican leaders in Congress and elections scheduled for November, David Hart and Andrea Olivos-Kah analyze the current situation and possibilities for comprehensive immigration reform in 2007. - Immigration Fridays | Problems And Issues In Marriage Cases (28mb)
Fri, 30 June 2006 08:00:00 EST
Our fortieth first program we speak about the issues and problems that may arise in marriage-based applications for adjustment. David J. Hart and Andrea Olivos-Kah focus the discussion on real-life problems/issues, such as: applicants who have been married before and are now filing based on a second marriage whose cases may raise suspicions of fraud; issues of separations/divorce before the marriage interview; and, separation/divorce after the interview and before filing the I-751, application to remove conditions on residency. - Immigration Fridays | The Debate Over Immigration Reform (25mb)
Fri, 07 July 2006 08:00:00 EST
On our forty second program we discuss the events of the past weeks in connection with the debate over immigration reform. David Hart and Andrea Olivos-Kah consider the latest meetings and ?field hearings? among the Republican leadership, the latest declarations to the press made by President Bush, and a June study that demonstrates the potential power of new voters in the mid-term election and also in the 2008 elections. - Immigration Fridays | The Immigration Debate, From The Mexican Point of View (36mb)
Fri, 14 July 2006 08:00:00 EST
On our forty third program, David Hart and Andrea Olivos-Kah discuss immigration reform with Miguel Antonio Meza Estrada who served as Consul of Mexico in Detroit, Michigan and El Paso, Texas and now works as a Consultant in Mexico City, Mexico. We discuss the immigration reform proposals of the Senate and House, as well as the recent U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (or ?ICE?) activities and their impact on both countries. - Immigration Fridays | Canadian Border Crossing Issues (35mb)
Fri, 21 July 2006 08:00:00 EST
On our forty fourth program, David Hart and Andrea Olivos-Kah speak with Canadian attorney James Scarfone, and discuss with him the changes in border processing at the northern border of the U.S. Specifically, they discuss the requirements to obtain waivers, for those with criminal backgrounds, and about the new requirements for travel under the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative and its effect on travel and the economy. - Immigration Fridays | An Immigration Story from Visitor to U.S. Citizen (24mb)
Fri, 28 July 2006 08:00:00 EST
On our forty fifth program, David Hart and Andrea Olivos-Kah speak with Lily at our offices in Miami, Florida. She tells us her immigration history from her first entry into the U.S. on a visitor's visa, various L intracompany visas, H-1B professional worker visas, residency process and finally her application for U.S. citizenship. - Immigration Fridays | Student: Visas,SEVIS and Reinstatement (26mb)
Fri, 04 August 2006 08:00:00 EST
On our forty sixth program, David Hart and Andrea Olivos-Kah speak with Andrés (our guest speaker, Regional Admissions Advisor at the University of Nebraska at Kearney) about his experiences as Advisor to international students since 9/11, the difficulty in obtaining visas through U.S. Consulates abroad, the new program "SEVIS", and how those students who have fallen out of status can be reinstated. - Immigration Fridays | The Possible Repeal of The Cuban Adjustment Act (22mb)
Fri, 11 August 2006 08:00:00 EST
On our forty seventh program, we discuss the Cuban Refugee Adjustment Act of 1966 and the Cuban Liberty and Democratic Solidarity Act. It provides a path to legal permanent residency for those who can show Cuban nationality ? through either birth in Cuba or parentage and a Cuban government document showing registration. Now, in light of the changes in the government of Fidel Castro, David J. Hart and Andrea Olivos-Kah talk about the possible revocation of these laws, and the repercussions of diplomatic relations between the U.S. and Cuba for those Cubans present in the U.S. with final orders of deportation. - Immigration Fridays | TPS and Proposed TPS Designation for Lebanon (19mb)
Fri, 18 August 2006 08:00:00 EST
On our forty eighth program, David Hart and Andrea Olivos-Kah explain the Temporary Protected Status or ?TPS? designation, who can benefit and how to apply. They also explain how to apply for extensions of TPS for those nationals of for example El Salvador, who can benefit from an extension as well as for employment authorization. David and Andrea also talk about the proposal to designate Lebanon for TPS. - Immigration Fridays | Employment Based Second Preference or ?EB-2? (25mb)
Fri, 25 August 2006 08:00:00 EST
On our forty ninth program, David Hart and Andrea Olivos-Kah explain the differences between the different preferences as well as how to qualify under EB-2 so as to obtain permanent residency faster than EB-3 which is currently unavailable. This classification refer to an application for permanent residency based on the sponsorship of a U.S. employer/company. - Immigration Fridays | National Interest Waivers (33mb)
Fri, 01 September 2006 08:00:00 EST
On our fiftieth program, David Hart and Andrea Olivos-Kah speak about national interest waivers. This classification is reserved for those who apply for an immigrant visa without sponsorship from a U.S. employer or a labor certification from the Department of Labor as long as they can evidence that their work is for the benefit and interest of the U.S. Attorney Jordana Hart speaks with David Hart and Andrea Olivos-Kah to explain the classification and its requirements. - Immigration Fridays | Port of Entry Processing of Visas (17mb)
Fri, 08 September 2006 08:00:00 EST
On our fifty first program, David Hart and Andrea Olivos-Kah, by telephone from the northern border, discuss that application process. Under NAFTA, Canadian citizens may apply for TN-1 visas at ports of entry, as well as other types of visa classifications under current immigration laws. - Immigration Fridays | VAWA and U Visas (24mb)
Fri, 15 September 2006 08:00:00 EST
On our fifty second program, David J. Hart, Andrea Olivos-Kah and Jordana Hart discuss eligibility requirements for VAWA as well as U visas, which protect those foreign nationals who are victims of crime in the U.S. VAWA is the acronym for Violence Against Women Act which protects women, and men, who suffer violence and/or psychological abuse at the hands of a U.S. citizen or permanent resident spouse. The law, which was passed in 1994, allows these foreign nationals to apply for protection against deportation, employment authorization and eventually for permanent residency. - Immigration Fridays | Immigration Issues Leading Up To The Elections (26mb)
Fri, 22 September 2006 08:00:00 EST
On our fifty third program, David J. Hart and Andrea Olivos-Kah talk about this week?s activities in Congress, especially in the House of Representatives. David and Andrea discuss three bills the House passed yesterday on national security and border security, and also talk about the impact of those bills and the impact of the lack of workers on U.S. agriculture. - Immigration Fridays | Frequently Asked Questions (30mb)
Fri, 29 September 2006 08:00:00 EST
On our fifty fourth program, David J. Hart and Andrea Olivos-Kah answer questions regarding start dates for work, labor certifications, TN visas under NAFTA, and changes in status. - Immigration Fridays | Adjustment of Status and The 245(K) Exemption (17mb)
Fri, 06 October 2006 08:00:00 EST
On our fifty fifth program, David J. Hart and Andrea Olivos-Kah explain who qualifies and how these applications for residency (or ?green card?) are filed. The exception under section 245k of the Immigration and Nationality Act which permits certain foreign nationals to file for adjustment of status to permanent resident even if they have violated their status (non-immigrant) and/or have worked without authorization. - Immigration Fridays | 245i Adjustment of Status Applications (21mb)
Fri, 13 October 2006 08:00:00 EST
On our fifty sixth program, David J. Hart and Andrea Olivos-Kah explain who qualifies and how these applications for adjustment (or residency) are filed. Under section 245i of the Immigration and Nationality Act, certain foreign nationals are permitted to file for adjustment of status even if they remained in the U.S. illegally. - Immigration Fridays | Frequently Asked Questions (22mb)
Fri, 20 October 2006 08:00:00 EST
On our fifty seventh program, David J. Hart and Andrea Olivos-Kah answer questions sent from listeners in the U.S. and from Colombia. One caller from the U.S.requested information about the maximum period of stay under H-1B classification and about the processing times for a labor certification filed in 2004 with the Department of Labor. The second calls from Bogotá to seek advice about obtaining a tourist visa to the U.S. because he has been denied twice at the U.S. Consulate in Bogotá. - Immigration Fridays | Questions and Answers from Callers (20mb)
Fri, 03 November 2006 08:00:00 EST
On our fifty eighth program, David J. Hart and Andrea Olivos-Kah answer a question from a caller who requests information regarding availability of immigrant visas to proceed with an employment-based permanent residency application. David and Andrea explain the wait times and also review his options. - Immigration Fridays | Analysis of Election Results and Impact on Immigration Laws and Policies (16mb)
Fri, 10 November 2006 08:00:00 EST
On our fifty ninth program, David J. Hart analyzes the impact of the election results on future immigration laws and policies. With the Senate and the House of Representatives in the hands of the Democrats, and with President Bush seeking to pass successful and popular laws to cement his legacy, it appears immigration reform may be possible in 2007. - Immigration Fridays | K-1 Visas and the Internet (20mb)
Fri, 17 November 2006 08:00:00 EST
On our sixtieth program, David Hart and Andrea Olivos-Kah take a call from a Colombian woman who met her U.S. citizen fiancé through the Internet. She seeks advice on how to obtain a visa as fiancée, in K-1 classification, to enter the United States. David and Andrea suggest a strategy for meeting her fiancé in a third country, and also on documenting their relationship which began over the Internet. - Immigration Fridays | Advance Parole or Travel Documents (20mb)
Fri, 01 December 2006 08:00:00 EST
On our sixty first program, David Hart and Andrea Olivos-Kah remind all those who are in the process of obtaining permanent residency of the importance of obtaining Advance Parole or Travel Documents before they plan trips abroad. David and Andrea discuss the filing requirements as well as the practical aspects of utilizing the documents. - Immigration Fridays | Possibilities for Immigration Reform in 2007 (20mb)
Fri, 08 December 2006 08:00:00 EST
On our sixty second program, David Hart and Andrea Olivos-Kah discuss the Possibility of Immigration Reform with Guest John Gay, the National Restaurant Association?s Senior Vice President, Government Affairs and Public Policy. John Gay has been a guest on our Podcast in the past and has provided invaluable insight and information on the debate over comprehensive immigration reform in Congress. Today he speaks with David Hart and Andrea Olivos-Kah about the possibilities of attaining comprehensive immigration reform in the 110th Congress. - Immigration Fridays | Reentry Permits (22mb)
Fri, 15 December 2006 08:00:00 EST
On our sixty third program, David J. Hart and Andrea Olivos-Kah discuss Reentry Permits for Legal Permanent Residents and Conditional Permanent Residents who travel abroad for more than one year. They also discuss related issues, including protecting time for the purpose of applying for naturalization. - Immigration Fridays | G Visas (13mb)
Fri, 22 December 2006 08:00:00 EST
On our sixty fourth program, David J. Hart and Andrea Olivos-Kah take a call from a woman who is employed by an international organization under G visa status. David and Andrea answer her questions regarding changes of status, and regarding work authorization and obtaining a dependent visa for her husband. They also explore other details of this G visa classification designed for employees of international organizations. - Immigration Fridays | Immigration for 2007 (15mb)
Fri, 29 December 2006 08:00:00 EST
On our sixty fifth program, David J. Hart speaks about possibilities of new immigration rules for 2007. - Immigration Fridays | FTA With Chile (15mb)
Fri, 05 January 2007 08:00:00 EST
On our sixty sixth program, David J. Hart speaks with Andrea Olivos-Kah from Santiago, Chile. They discuss the FTA with Chile with our guest, Andres Vergara. Mr Vergara is an executive with the company CCNI. - Immigration Fridays | Featured Author And Article On Reasons People Immigrate To The U.S. And What The U.S. Should Do With Them (34mb)
Fri, 12 January 2007 08:00:00 EST
On our sixty seventh program, David J. Hart and Andrea Olivos-Kah speak with Sameer Dossani the author of the article ?Walls, Amnesty and False Choices? which was featured on our website on January 10, 2007. Mr. Dossani offers the answers to the central question of: ?why do immigrants come to the U.S. and what do we do with them?. He provides an analysis of U.S. policies that encourage immigration to this country and some proposals for providing long-term solutions to the issue of undocumented migration. - Immigration Fridays | Premium Processing Update (25mb)
Fri, 19 January 2007 08:00:00 EST
On our sixty eighth program, David J. Hart and Andrea Olivos-Kah discuss the option of expediting applications for some nonimmigrant visa classifications as well as for some immigrant visa applications for obtaining legal permanent residency in the U.S. The option has existed for temporary or nonimmigrant visa classifications, for example H-1B, L-1, O and P visas, since 2001. Since last year the program has also been expanded for certain immigrant visas. David and Andrea talk about which classifications and types of cases benefit from this option, namely the I-907, Premium Processing Application. - Immigration Fridays | Update on Driver License Issues (19mb)
Fri, 26 January 2007 08:00:00 EST
On our sixty ninth program, David J. Hart and Andrea Olivos-Kah discuss an update regarding recent policies to restrict the issuance of driver licenses to those who can demonstrate legal status. David J. Hart and Andrea Olivos-Kah also discuss the policy in Florida as well as in other states, as well as some State proposals that would make driving without a valid driver?s license a felony. - Immigration Fridays | U.S. CIS Proposes Drastic Filing Fee Increase (16mb)
Fri, 02 February 2007 08:00:00 EST
On our seventieth program, David J. Hart and Andrea Olivos-Kah discuss the proposed U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (US CIS) applications fee increase. U.S. CIS opened a 60-day period of public comment on the proposed rule to increase fees yesterday. We would encourage all those interested to send your comments in to U.S. CIS. The final rules are not expected before June of this year. - Immigration Fridays | Consular vs. Adjustment Processing (20mb)
Fri, 09 February 2007 08:00:00 EST
On our seventy first program, David J. Hart and Andrea Olivos-Kah focus on the consular and adjustment processes, the last step in the legal permanent residency application. David J. Hart and Andrea Olivos-Kah give an overview of the legal permanent residency process, for family and employer sponsored cases, and discuss in detail the pros and cons of consular vs. adjustment of status processing. - Immigration Fridays | Continued Immigrant Visa Backlogs? (18mb)
Fri, 16 February 2007 08:00:00 EST
On our seventy second program, David J. Hart and Andrea Olivos-Kah discuss the bad news for EB-3 applicants and also discuss how this development may affect the push for comprehensive immigration reform. David and Andrea also give a brief explanation of preference categories, the permanent residency process and processing times, and some pointers for those who are interested in being sponsored for permanent residency (i.e., the ?Green Card?) by their employers. - Immigration Fridays | Questions and Answers (25mb)
Fri, 23 February 2007 08:00:00 EST
On our seventy third program, David J. Hart and Andrea Olivos-Kah answer three questions pertaining to family-based immigration, travel for those granted asylum or permanent residency based on asylum, and, the possibilities for an undocumented worker if immigration reform legislation is passed this year. - Immigration Fridays | First Hearing on Comprehensive Immigration Reform! (14mb)
Fri, 02 March 2007 08:00:00 EST
On our seventy fourth program, David J. Hart and Andrea Olivos-Kah speak about the testimony of U.S. Department of Homeland Security (?DHS?) Secretary Michael Chertoff and U.S. Secretary of Commerce Carlos Gutierrez at the Senate Judiciary Committee?s first hearing on Comprehensive Immigration Reform (?CIR?) on February 28, 2007. This marks the first official meeting dedicated to the subject of CIR since the 110th Congress convened. This also marks the first of many hearings that will hopefully produce comprehensive, bipartisan immigration reform bills to be introduced sometime this March. David J. Hart and Andrea Olivos-Kah discuss Mr. Chertoff?s and Mr. Gutierrez?s recommendations for a CIR framework. - Immigration Fridays | Congressional Update (16mb)
Fri, 09 March 2007 08:00:00 EST
On our seventy fifth program, David J. Hart and Andrea Olivos-Kah discuss the recent American Dream Act introduced in the House of Representatives, the DREAM Act introduced in the Senate, the testimony of Microsoft Chairman Bill Gates before the Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor and Pensions, the House Homeland Security Committee?s Subcommittee on Border, Maritime and Global Counterterrorism hearing on the need for secure borders and a temporary worker program, and the recent Senate debate on amendments to the Security bill to fulfill the 9/11 Commission Recommendations. - Immigration Fridays | Lobby Day, for Immigration Reform (21mb)
Fri, 16 March 2007 08:00:00 EST
On our seventy sixth program, David J. Hart discusses his experience and impressions on the possibility and Congressional willingness to work towards immigration reform as obtained from his participation in AILA (American Immigration Lawyers? Association) Lobby Day. David discusses the potential for a comprehensive, bipartisan, immigration bill with Andrea Olivos-Kah as well as some timetables for proposals out of the Senate and House of Representatives. - Immigration Fridays | STRIVE Act of 2007 (22mb)
Fri, 23 March 2007 08:00:00 EST
On our seventy seventh program, David J. Hart and Andrea Olivos-Kah discuss the Security Through Regularized Immigration and a Vibrant Economy or ?STRIVE Act? of 2007 which was unveiled yesterday. The STRIVE Act of 2007 is a bipartisan comprehensive immigration reform bill introduced by Representatives Luis Gutierrez (D-IL) and Jeff Flake (R-AZ), which calls for securing the borders, strengthening interior enforcement, and a mandatory employment verification system before the other sections of the bill are implemented. Those other sections include: a new H-2C temporary worker visa for new workers, an increase in quotas for family-based and employment-based immigrants, a new ?conditional nonimmigrant status? for undocumented workers who qualify, the DREAM Act of 2007, the AgJOBS Bill of 2007, an earned legalization program, and an U.S. citizenship program. We discuss the next steps towards obtaining a bipartisan bill for the President?s signature and the chances of achieving immigration reform before attention turns to the 2008 presidential race. - Immigration Fridays | White House Issues It's Version of CIR (25mb)
Fri, 06 April 2007 08:00:00 EST
On our seventy ninth program, David J. Hart describes the White House's version of immigration reform. - Immigration Fridays | Current Status of H1-B Filings for April 2007 (10mb)
Fri, 13 April 2007 08:00:00 EST
On our eightieth program David J. Hart and Andrea Olivos-Kah speak about the filings of the H1-B visa that began April 2nd 2007. About 150,000 applications were received on April 2, 2007. David J. Hart and Andrea Olivos-Kah discuss how USCIS will handle the applications. - Immigration Fridays | Update on H-1B Master?s Cap and Senate?s Version of Immigration Reform (21mb)
Fri, 20 April 2007 08:00:00 EST
On our eighty first program David J. Hart and Andrea Olivos-Kah discuss the updates on the availability of H-1B Visas for foreign nationals who are subject to the Master?s or Advanced Degree Cap as well as the most recent Senate discussions on comprehensive immigration reform. The good news about the H-1B Master?s cap is that it is still open but with probably less than 3,000 visas available for those individuals who hold a U.S. Master?s degree or other advanced U.S. degree. The good news about the Senate?s negotiations is that we now know a Senate proposal may be released as early as next week with a possible vote in May. Since we already know the House of Representatives is aiming for a vote on its version of comprehensive immigration reform in July, we are now even more hopeful that Congress may reach a negotiated compromise on the issue before the August recess. - Immigration Fridays | Letter Writing Campaign to Promote Comprehensive Immigration Reform (17mb)
Fri, 27 April 2007 08:00:00 EST
On our eighty second program, Attorneys David J. Hart and Andrea Olivos-Kah announce a letter writing campaign to promote comprehensive immigration reform. The letter writing campaign will be organized by the Political Action Committee Immigrants? List and interested individuals will be able to participate through the organization?s site at: www.immigrantslist.com In addition, the Number 1 Spanish-language syndicated radio show ?Piolín por la Mañana? will promote the letter writing campaign in an effort to mobilize Congressional members to act on this important issue this year. The letter writing campaign is scheduled for launching on Wednesday, May 2nd. We will post additional information on that letter writing campaign on our site www.immigrateusa.com next week. - Immigration Fridays | Extension of TPS (12mb)
Fri, 04 May 2007 08:00:00 EST
On our eighty third program, Attorneys David J. Hart and Andrea Olivos-Kah discuss the recent USCIS announcement to extend TPS to nations of Honduras, El Salvador, and Nicaruaqga. They discuss re-registrations and employment issues including re-verification of form I-9. - Immigration Fridays | This Week's Podcast Has Been Cancelled (1mb)
Fri, 11 May 2007 08:00:00 EST
Due to technical difficulties, this week's podcast has been cancelled. We apologize for the inconvenience. - Immigration Fridays | Questions and Answers (22mb)
Fri, 18 May 2007 08:00:00 EST
On our eighty fourth program, Attorneys David J. Hart and Andrea Olivos-Kah answer questions from a listener that include issues of when to file the I-485 Adjustment of Status application considering the resent visa bulletin. Also, when to apply for EAD, and what happens if the I-140 is denied. - Immigration Fridays | Senate?s Proposed Immigration Legislation (24mb)
Fri, 23 May 2007 08:00:00 EST
This week, our regular pod cast ?Immigration Fridays? is being published early due to Congressional activity on proposed comprehensive immigration reform. While amendments will be presented and voted on today, David J. Hart and Andrea Olivos-Kah thought it useful to discuss the proposal, in broad strokes, as well as to provide some analysis of the current criticisms of the current Senate proposal. For example, they discuss the proposed two-class system that will be created by the ?Y? and ?Z? visas, as well as the proposal to replace our current employment-based immigration system with a radical "merit-based" point system. - Immigration Fridays | Status of Senate?s Proposal for Immigration Reform (24mb)
Fri, 01 June 2007 08:00:00 EST
On our eighty sixth program, David J. Hart and Andrea Olivos-Kah discuss the status of the Senate?s proposal for immigration reform. They focus on several factors that will primarily impact U.S. employers and foreign nationals seeking employment and permanent residency in the U.S. - Immigration Fridays | Senate Vote Fails (6mb)
Fri, 08 June 2007 08:00:00 EST
On our eighty seventh program, David J. Hart discuss Dem's withdraw immigration bill from further consideration. - Immigration Fridays | USCIS Filing Fees Increase (17mb)
Fri, 15 June 2007 08:00:00 EST
On our eighty eighth program, David J. Hart and Jordana Hart discuss the increase of USCIS filing fees. - Immigration Fridays | The Visa Bulletin (16mb)
Fri, 22 June 2007 08:00:00 EST
On our eighty ninth program, David J. Hart and Andrea Olivos-Kah discuss the visa bulletin for the month of July 2007. - Immigration Fridays | Immigration News (20mb)
Fri, 29 June 2007 08:00:00 EST
On our ninetieth program, David J. Hart and Andrea Olivos-Kah discuss this week?s immigration news, including the defeat of a cloture vote in the Senate and its significance for immigration reform legislation, the rumors that EB-3 immigrant visas will be capped or backlogged in the future, and the announcement that US CIS suspended Premium Processing service for all I-140, Applications for Immigrant Visas. - Immigration Fridays | Window of Opportunity for Immigrant Visas Closes (18mb)
Fri, 06 July 2007 08:00:00 EST
On our ninety first program, David J. Hart and Andrea Olivos-Kah discuss the DOS announcement that the 60,000 visas it had expected to offer would no longer be available because of ?sudden backlog reduction efforts? by US Citizenship and Immigration Services (US CIS). David and Andrea also discuss the repercussions for those who have already filed, for those who were waiting to file, and for those who wish to begin the employment-based permanent residency process. - Immigration Fridays | New Rules for Certain Medical Benefits (19mb)
Fri, 13 July 2007 08:00:00 EST
On our ninety second program, David J. Hart and Andrea Olivos-Kah discuss the prohibitive costs of U.S.passports for many of those citizens who would apply for Medicare and Medicaid benefits, delays in processing of passport applications, and the burden now placed on states by this federal regulation. The regulations were published on July 2 in the Federal Register and already there are reports of over 1,000 U.S.citizens residents of West Virginia who have been denied benefits and/or renewal of benefits due to their failure to present U.S. passports or other documents to evidence US citizenship. - Immigration Fridays | US CIS Acceptance of Employment-based Adjustment of Status Applications (21mb)
Fri, 20 July 2007 08:00:00 EST
On our ninety third program, David J. Hart and Andrea Olivos-Kah discuss the July 17th announcement that US CIS will now accept Employment-based Adjustment of Status Applications. They discuss the resolution of the July Visa Bulletin fiasco, and give some advice for those who are preparing their applications for filing before the deadline of August 17th. - Immigration Fridays | The Deadline for Filing Fees (6mb)
Fri, 27 July 2007 08:00:00 EST
On our ninety fourth program, David J. Hart and Andrea Olivos-Kah discuss the deadline for the USCIS filing fees. The new USCIS filing fees will begin on July 30, 2007. - Immigration Fridays | Questions and Answers (27mb)
Fri, 03 August 2007 08:00:00 EST
On our ninety fifth program, David Hart and Andrea Olivos-Kah answer some questions from listeners and visitors to our site www.immigrateusa.com. These questions include, who can file for adjustment before the August 17th deadline, whether nurses can now file concurrent I-140 and I-485 applications, whether F-1 students can change status to H-1B and adjust status, and whether those who accumulate unauthorized employment should travel on Advance Parole (while adjustment is pending). - Immigration Fridays | E2 Visa for Nationals of Taiwan (15mb)
Fri, 10 August 2007 08:00:00 EST
On our ninety sixth program, David Hart calls in for our pod cast on the subject of E visas for nationals of Taiwan from Hong Kong. David Hart and Andrea Olivos-Kah discuss the E visa for Taiwan nationals, and the possibilities for nationals of China to participate in the E visa program. - Immigration Fridays | Visa Bulletin for September 2007 (13mb)
Fri, 17 August 2007 08:00:00 EST
On our ninety seventh program, David J. Hart and Andrea Olivos-Kah discuss the September 2007 Visa Bulletin and forecasts for the October 2007 Visa Bulletin. - Immigration Fridays | New rule for labor certification cases: who can pay for the case (12mb)
Fri, 24 August 2007 08:00:00 EST
On our ninety eighth program, David J. Hart and Andrea Olivos-Kah discuss the change in the regulations for applications for labor certification with the Department of Labor under PERM. This change will affect the representation and payment of fees for the permanent residency process. - Immigration Fridays | New rule for employers: obligation to act upon receipt of SSA ?No-Match? Letters (19mb)
Fri, 31 August 2007 08:00:00 EST
On our ninety ninth program, Attorneys David J. Hart and Andrea Olivos-Kah discuss the new DHS ?No Match? Regulations, "Safe Harbor Procedures for Employers Who Receive a No-Match Letter." They discuss the implementation of the new regulations, new obligations for employers, as well as the controversy and law suits to stop them from being implemented on September 14th. - Immigration Fridays | TPS for Peruvians? (13mb)
Fri, 07 September 2007 08:00:00 EST
On our one hundredth program, Attorneys David J. Hart and Andrea Olivos-Kah discuss the possibility of Temporary Protected Status or ?TPS? for Peruvian nationals. Since it was recently reported that Emilio Gonzalez, Director of the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (US CIS), stated the Bush administration will review the request to grant Peruvians in the United States temporary residence and work permits, Andrea and David discuss the consequences of that decision. - Immigration Fridays | October 2007 Visa Bulletin (15mb)
Fri, 14 September 2007 08:00:00 EST
On our hundred and first program, Attorney David J. Hart gives an update on the visa bulletin for October 2007. - Immigration Fridays | ?U? visas and DREAM Act (23mb)
Fri, 21 September 2007 08:00:00 EST
On our hundred and second program, Attorneys David J. Hart and Andrea Olivos-Kah discuss the newly published ?U? visa regulations and today?s introduction of the DREAM Act as an amendment to a Senate Defense Department authorization bill. The ?U? visa would grant legal status to foreign nationals who are victims of crimes, and the DREAM Act would grant legal status and a path to legal permanent residency to young people who wish to pursue higher education or service in the military. Both news items are also covered in postings dated September 6 and September 17, respectively. - Immigration Fridays | Answer to Naturalization Question and Information on US CIS Receipt Delays (20mb)
Fri, 28 September 2007 08:00:00 EST
On our hundred and third program, Attorneys David J. Hart and Andrea Olivos-Kah answer a question from a listener regarding eligibility to file for naturalization, and also discuss the US CIS notice regarding receipt delays published today. The notice, and conversation, focuses on those adjustment of status applicants who eagerly await receipt notices with new legal status. - Immigration Fridays | Advisory on ICE Raids (17mb)
Fri, 05 October 2007 08:00:00 EST
On our hundred and fourth program, Attorneys David J. Hart and Andrea Olivos-Kah discuss recent ICE (Immigration and Customs Enforcement Agency) raids, both individual and worksite raids, in the news. They also provide some advice for employers and for individuals. - Immigration Fridays | Special Status of Canadians (19mb)
Fri, 19 October 2007 08:00:00 EST
On our hundred and fifth program, Attorneys David J. Hart and Andrea Olivos-Kah discuss the special status of Canadian nationals (i.e., citizens of Canada). David and Andrea discuss visa exemption status of Canadian nonimmigrants as well as port of entry processing of nonimmigrant classifications under NAFTA, and offer some practical tips. - Immigration Fridays | Removal/Deportation, and Waivers (22mb)
Fri, 26 October 2007 08:00:00 EST
On our hundred and sixth program, Attorneys David J. Hart and Andrea Olivos-Kah speak with Attorney Abraham Cardenas who specializes in removal (i.e., deportation) and waivers. Our guest discusses requirements for obtaining waivers and also updates on ICE (Immigration and Customs Enforcement) issues.