Thursday, June 25, 2009

Skilled Independent Migration Visa

Skilled Independent Migration Visa is one of the categories within the General Skilled Migration or Skilled Visa group which can be applied for both on-shore or from within Australia or off-shore or applicant is not in Australia. The General Skilled Migration caters to those who are not sponsored by an employer and the applicant applies on the strength of his own qualification in this type of visa.

Generally, the applicant must have skills and qualifications for an occupation listed on Australia's Skilled Occupation List (SOL), must be over 18 and under 45 years of age, with good English language ability, and recent skilled work experience or a recently completed eligible Australian qualification, among others.

In the Skilled Independent Migration Visa, apart from the obvious requirement of skill, the applicant must submit acceptable evidence and pass specific tertiary o trade credentials. The applicant must also submit acceptable evidence that they have the necessary or minimum requirements of experience for the specific vacancy they are trying to apply. The applicant will have to hurdle a points test where the applicant's age and the specific skill, among others will be rated and graded against a minimum passing rate.

Other types of Skilled Migration Visa includes:
? State/Territory Nominated Independent where a particular State/Territory seeking the applicant's skill will nominate that applicant
? Australian Family Sponsored which becomes available if the applicant has a close relative
? Independent Regional where applicant finds easier requirements and lower points tests passing.
The migration laws of Australia are quite complex and changes to rules and regulations are not infrequent. The DIAC is the government agency where current and official information may be obtained.

Robert Harrison is an expert in the Australian migration industry and backed by seasoned solicitors in Australian migration. http://www.firstmigrationgroup.com/ is offering a revolutionary alternative in fee charging migration services for those who want to immigrate to Australia the successful way

K3 Marriage Visa - Your Ultimate Guide

If you've found your perfect match from another country and you want to take him or her with you to the United States to start a new life together, then you might think of getting a K3 marriage visa.?
?
The K3 marriage visa falls under a non-immigrant visa category that allows spouses of U.S. citizens to enter the United States until they can lawfully adjust their status into a permanent residence status.
?
There are many benefits of getting a K3 visa.?First, it takes shorter waiting periods for everything to be processed as opposed to marriage-based immigration visas.?Also, your spouse can engage in employment by applying for a work permit, and your children can enter the United States through the K4 visa, given that they are listed in the visa petition.???
?
To be eligible to get a K3 visa, one has to be legally wed or married to a U.S. citizen.?The U.S. citizen spouse should file a family based immigration petition (I-130) on the non-citizen spouse's behalf.?Another requirement is if the non-citizen spouse wishes to enter the U.S. while waiting for his/her green card petition approval and the succeeding lawful change in status to permanent resident.??
?
On behalf of your non-U.S. citizen spouse, you should file Form I-130 with the USCIS service center that has authority over your non-citizen spouse's place of residence.?Afterward, you will get Form I-797, stating that the Form I-130 was received by the USCIS.?A copy of this form should be sent together with a USCIS Form I-129F to the USCIS in Chicago, Illinois for adjudication.?This is then forwarded to the appropriate American Consulate so your spouse can apply for a K3 visa.?

We are here to make things a little easier during the K3 Visa process. We have a lot of useful information to help with all of your needs. Please visit us at http://www.visak1k3.com/k3-visa-news

Avail the Total Benefit From Immigration Lawyers

The word law always comes with norms, rules, legalities etc. Law is something which has its importance and it is not something that can be understood and applied by all. To be a lawyer you really need to undergo a serious course of law studies. There are various categories of law, and among them immigration law and immigration lawyers. Immigration lawyers are occupying a very reputed place in the law firm. In daily basis the immigration lawyers get a good number of cases to handle in this aspect.

Thus, basically the main reason of approaching an immigration lawyer is to get work permit in the foreign land. But one doesn't get work permit very easily, for this one needs to take assistance from immigration solicitor or immigration lawyer. There are various norms and rule one needs to fulfill before getting work permit. Basically if you planning to get the work permit in UK. To get UK work permit you have to consult a right immigration solicitor or a immigration lawyer who can really guide you with all terms and condition regarding getting a UK work permit.

If you really want to get UK work to permit than you really need to consult a expert immigration solicitor who can really help you and guide regarding get work permit. Talking in details about the immigration law than the immigration law firms can help in the following way, first and foremost it gives you a total idea about the dos and don'ts of the laws and rules on immigration law. Moreover, the immigration law firms of UK accept application and carry's British post abroad. They also publish in immigration Tribune and law courts. They accept all kinds of application related to immigration laws and regulations.

Thus, there are various prospects in immigration laws and the immigration lawyer's needs to take proper care that they work according to the given law, and moreover they always work according to the norms established for the law in general. Thus a particular thing that you should take into consideration that is before applying for immigration certificates, you should see that whether you are eligible to be an applicant for the to get UK work permit, thus it is very important so that you can very well judge whether you eligible for the permit. Moreover, the law firms in UK generally have very well versed in immigration law and expertise in there field.

Therefore, it is very important for you to learn more in details about immigration law and immigration lawyers in order to take the maximum value from it. So, if you want to get UK work permit than approach the right immigration solicitor or immigration lawyer and get what you desire. In this regard for assistance you can take the help fro a UK based immigration law firm that is danielcohenimimmigration firm.

Author Bio: - So for any sort of requirement in this relevant field, you know the exact way to go with http://www.daniellecohenimmigration.com

The Difference Between Deportation and Exclusion

In simple terms deportation and exclusion have the same consequences. However deportation is a process of removing the person who is already living in the United States. Exclusion is a process where a person arriving in United States is not allowed to enter.

The legal proceedings for both the cases differ in some ways. The reasons why a person may be excluded from entering the country can be health reasons, possession of illegal drugs like marijuana or cocaine or violation of any of the airport laws. The reasons for deportation may be breaking the law, overstaying the visa permit, or involved in criminal activity, working illegally, and going against the rules set by the immigration and naturalization services.

Exclusion that has been caused by illnesses and health grounds may be temporary. If you have been affected by some kind of virus you can be cordoned in the airport premises until you have been treated. However exclusion on the basis of criminal grounds can be permanent and you may never be allowed to enter the country again. Deportation also similarly can take place for a brief period of time and at a later point you may be allowed into the country depending on the act.

However if it is anything to do with breaking the laws or engaged in criminal activities in that case deportation is a permanent remedy. That is why it very important to watch your luggage and not leave it unguarded in airports. Also drugs and marijuana are taken very seriously by the officials at the airport.

About Author:
Pauline Go is an online leading expert in the legal industry. She also offers top quality articles like :
Criminal Law,
Perjury Penalties

How to Hire Foreign National Employees Without Violating United States Immigration Laws?

Several multinational companies have the need for workers from foreign countries for various kinds of jobs. However bringing people from other countries to work in the United States is not an easy task anymore. It is more or less like a lottery system where the person who gets the visa is lucky.

However companies now can be smarter about the way they deal with the work permits. The H1 B status of an employee can actually be kept alive and prospective employees can still be brought into the country to work. It is called a H1 B transfer and using this employer can transfer the visa to the prospective employee to make them work for the company.

H1 B visas are granted for 3 years and it can be typically be extended to a maximum period of 6 or 7 years also if you want to retain the employee try to look at many other options while you get the extension. Start planning for future extension or change in visa status before the visa expires. There different categories of visas for employees like L1 and L2 and each one have their benefits and limitations when it comes to transfers or extensions.

See how you can manipulate these benefits in order to get a longer sty period for the employee. Also if the employee has stayed long enough then you may want to consider getting a permanent residency which is a more lasting solution. The employer can discuss the possibility of it with the employee and get the process started.

About Author:
Pauline Go is an online leading expert in the legal industry. She also offers top quality articles like :
Criminal Law,
Perjury Penalties

Guide For Finding a Good Immigration Lawyer

There hundreds of rules and regulations for immigrants and some in the benefit of immigrants and some work against them. It is impossible for a layman to know all the terms and meaning of the law. A person who is planning to get citizenship or a green card should have an immigration lawyer on their side for help.

However having said that finding a good immigration lawyer can be a daunting task if you do not know how to look for one. The lawyer you know or looking for should know all the possibilities of immigration and should be well versed with the rules and regulations. The lawyer should be good with filing the papers and organizing the events for you.

Some lawyers are really good and carry a lot of experience. You should probably go with someone like that because their experience will help you in the long run. Also within the segment of immigration lawyers they have different specializations. For example if you are being faced with a deportation case then you should not approach someone who works for naturalization processes.

A deportation lawyer will be the best for you because they know how to fight and win your case. Specialty matters to a great extent when you are looking for lawyers. Also if you need help with naturalization or getting your green card you should allow an immigration lawyer process your papers correctly and accurately. In fact you will have more peace of mind even if you are spending money and at least be sure that you have done your part correctly.

About Author:
Pauline Go is an online leading expert in the legal industry. She also offers top quality articles like :
Criminal Law,
Perjury Penalties

How Does Detention and Deportation Affect Legal Permanent Residents?

Detention means putting a person in prison and detaining him or her for committing a crime or felony. The crime could be staying illegally in the country and that is why they are being faced with detention. However deportation comes after detention where the people who have been caught living illegally and been in prison are sent back to their own country.

Legal permanent residents or LPR are people who have been given the permit by immigration department to live and work in the United States. Detention and deportation can affect legal permanent residents. Having a green card does not guarantee any immunity from the immigration officials and they can still be sent back if they find something is wrong.

The immigration officials check files and records constantly even after the green cards have been issued and at that time if they find any discrepancies then the family who has a permanent residency can still be deported. Also if the green card holder has been involved in a crime scene or illegal activity then he or she might have to be faced with deportation penalty after detention. Green card holders do not have any legal rights to oppose the decision of the immigration services.

Also the most number of people who are being deported are the Latin Americans and Mexicans who have been found to be living without any authorization in the country. This is also brings the actual green card holders under the magnifying glass. The immigration services may come back for more proof even after giving the green card to the people.

About Author:
Pauline Go is an online leading expert in the legal industry. She also offers top quality articles like :
Criminal Law,
Perjury Penalties

What is Dual Citizenship?

Dual citizenship refers to the legal right some individuals have to be citizens of more than one country. There are advantages to dual citizenship. It can save individuals money on taxes and other legal fees. Plus, there is a certain amount of freedom that goes along with having citizenship in two or even more countries.

However, you may wonder if having dual citizenship is legal or not. Whether or not this is legal depends on the laws of all countries you inhabit. Worldwide, of course there's no law as to how many countries you can live in. However, if you live and make money in one country, you have to make sure that living elsewhere and making income is permissible with that first country. There may be various rules and procedures you have to follow.

For example, what if you are born in one country but want to become a citizen in another one? Some countries might demand that you disassociate yourself from other companies. In other instances, becoming a citizen of another nation doesn't necessarily disqualify your citizenship in another country. Furthermore, some countries automatically disassociate you while others require written notice.

What's important to remember is that according to authorities, you are a citizen of the country you are currently staying in. Therefore, when you are in Canada you are not an American citizen according to the most individuals. All that matters is that you follow the law of the country you are staying in. This means taking all related obligations like taxes, military service, and certain travel restrictions. In unusual cases, like if American doesn't permit traveling to a Middle Eastern country, yet Canada does, your traveling plans would have to respect the wishes of each country, depending on which you are staying in at the time.

You're not considered a man (or woman) who is multi-national according to the law. This is what you can pride yourself of being, personally speaking, a man or woman who has assets in more than one country. However, the country you live in will only expect honesty with regards as to your active citizenship. When you are in America, you follow America's rules. (No policeman will have any compassion for you if you state you were not doing anything illegal by Canada's standards!)

If you're interested in learning how to build wealth, keep it and live the life you've always dreamed of, then ByeByeBigBrother.com is the place to start. Learn perfectly legal tactics to protecting what you've got and become "Happy, Healthy, Sexy & Wealthy!" Visit ByeByeBigBrother.com to learn more today.

Types of Visa For Visiting the United States

The United States is a beautiful country and is among the favorite tourist destinations of many tourists around the world. In addition, the United States is one of the most successful countries in terms of economical growth which have attracted people from other nations to reside or work in this country for better living conditions, and to receive a higher salary.

Millions of people from other countries visit the United States every year for different reasons. They travel to the country as tourists to visit their friends and relatives. Some travel for other reasons such as attending a seminar, conferences, training, medical needs, exchange programs, temporary worker, business meetings or decided to reside in the US.

As a matter of government policy, any foreigner entering into other countries must first secure a visa.. So it is important that you have knowledge on what kind of visa you need to apply for, which depends on the purpose of your trip.

Every year many people from different countries apply for US visas such as visitor visa, work visa and immigration visa. Application for visa includes securing an application form and attending a series of interviews. The US Embassy in the respective countries of the visitor will do necessary counter checking of all data provided through an interagency database. All submitted documents will be verified by the concerned agencies.

Just recently, the United States government has updated the policies in visa applications in order to provide better security for visitors and the American citizens. The evaluation and screening process are stricter in this time of economic recession. Visa application procedures have improved a lot with the implementation of an automated system for faster processing.

US visas are categorized into two; the immigrant visa and the non-immigrant visa.

The immigrant visa is sought by foreigners who have long term plans of permanently residing or working in the United States. However, the applicant should be sponsored by an employer or a relative who is a US citizen before being eligible for an immigrant visa.

This also requires that the petitioner should fill up the Affidavit of Support form which will indicate his financial capability to support the immigrant during his stay in the country. Normally, the process of applying for an immigrant visa can take up as long as two to three years to complete.

With respect to this application, the US government implements an immigration visa lottery in which lucky winners can have the opportunity to be given special privileges in shortening the application process to about two or three months only.

The non-immigrant visas can be applied for a foreigner who intends to stay in the United States for a short period of time. This is a visa that allows a person to stay in the country on a temporary basis.

Non-immigrant visas are commonly applied by tourists, performers, government officials, journalists, trainees, students and temporary workers. It can also be used for other purposes such as for medical treatment and business meetings. For temporary worker visa it is necessary that the petition be first approved by the US immigration including the Naturalization Service before proceeding with the application.

When you have plans in visiting the United States for whatever purpose, it is important to process ahead of time and to comply with all the necessary requirements. This will significantly avoid any delays on your travel. It is important to gather more details to the nearest US Embassy in your country to know the policies concerning your travel.

For more information on Media and Journalists Visa and Work part time in America please visit our website.

Tuesday, June 16, 2009

Find an Immigration Attorney For Smooth Transition to New Citizenship

Today more people than ever are looking for a better life in a new country. Regardless of what the reason for picking up your roots and relocating is, you will likely have to find an immigration attorney at some point of your journey. Although it is technologically speaking easier than ever to travel there are still many cultural and social aspects one needs to consider carefully. And a good lawyer will help you with both general knowledge and legal advice, making the transition to a new citizenship as smooth as possible.

The immigration lawyer search is something that ideally should be started as soon as possible. One good, and very often free, starting point is using one of the online services that help you find a lawyer. As people today are more mobile than ever, it is easy to fall into the trap of believing that new citizenship will be just as easy. Without the proper legal assistance however, you may be stepping off the plane into a harsh reality. Not only may the laws of your new country, concerning crucial things like employment and housing, be radically different from what you are used to, but there are also some sociological aspects you may never have even heard of - but that are very real all the same.

Pride and Prejudice?

Although it easily sounds like idealists ranting the problem of prejudice within the society is
a matter that shouldn't be overlooked when it comes to immigration. It is a much studied aspect of the social and psychological aspect of the humanity and it has already raised concerns within the society because of its immorality and its inappropriateness. For this reason, many societies have done their best to nullify prejudice by launching massive information campaigns and enlisting the help of various super star celebrities to incite supporters regarding the war on prejudice and its manifestations. All the same, various forms of prejudice is something "foreigners" often will have to deal with at some point. By finding a good immigration attorney you will at least be mentally prepared for this.

Legal Knowledge Is a Given

But helping you adjust to the society you have moved to is often something of an extra credit among lawyers. it is not always something you'll find mentioned when searching for an immigration lawyer referral. Naturally an immigration attorney should primarily be concerned with protecting your legal rights, seeing to it that you have all the relevant information when it comes to applying for a job etc. And it goes without saying that they must know all the laws that apply in your case. But an overall willingness to help you with adjusting to a new location should certainly be seen as a very positive trait in your attorney as well.

Because in the end, when it comes to your success and wellbeing as a member of a new society, there are many rules you need to play by that may not be covered by any formal law.

To find an immigration attorney should be your top priority both in order to get all the needed red tape out of the way as quickly as possible, and to get started with the more social aspect of adapting to your new home country. Bob H Clarke writes for the informational website http://www.getattorneyconsultation.com, where you can find relevant pointers to many of the most fundamental legal questions requiring the help of an attorney.

Immigration Policies of Australia

Everybody desires a better life - this desire has led people to go to other countries, which they think offer them the opportunity to achieve their dreams. A typical country of choice is Australia since it is one of the most prosperous countries in the world. In view of this, Australia immigration policies have been implemented in order to better facilitate the process of moving into their country.

The new immigration policy has two components, namely, Migration and Humanitarian, these two aspects makeup the backbone of the Immigration Policies of Australia.

Explained simply, the Humanitarian aspect concerns those people who came to Australia to seek refuge. These include refugees, people who legally entered the country and sought its protection, as well as illegal immigrants. Even when the country is flexible concerning Humanitarian immigration, it still reserves the power to decline applications that are deemed unfit.

The Migration aspect is divided into three categories: Skilled Migration, Special Eligibility, and Family Stream.

Australia gives much importance to Skilled Migration since through it, they can find a solution to some of their employment deficiencies. This aspect is divided further into three categories: General Skilled Migration, Employer Nomination and Business Skill.

Australia believes in the importance of a united family, that is why their immigration policy has a Family Migration category. Immigrants and residents alike can nominate their child, partners, parents, and/or dependent relatives for migration. In this aspect, the country reserves the right to ask for DNA testing, when it is deemed necessary.

Special Eligibility Migration concerns individuals who have had previous connections with Australia such as its former residents and those individuals who were born in Australia but grew up in another country.

These new policies will make more people consider Australia immigration.

Sunday, June 14, 2009

What is an Immigration Agent? - And How Can They Help You Emigrate to Australia?

Australian immigration agents are the topic of this installment of our guide to emigrating to Australia...

Using an immigration agent, who is an expert in the field of emigration issues, isn't necessary when applying for an Australian visa, but many prospective immigrants enlist the help of one anyway. This is because their knowledge and experience of the visa regulations and the application process can shorten the time it'll take to obtain your visa, and almost eradicates the likelihood of an incorrect application being lodged (most offer a guarantee of a refund if this happens).

If you opt to use an agent, be sure to only use one that is registered with the Australian Department of Immigration and Citizenship (DIAC) and also make sure you get a full account of all the costs involved before starting the application process.

Many offer free online eligibility tests, which are designed as a preliminary review of your eligibility to apply for an Australian Visa. These are a good place to start; they take only a few minutes to complete and are based upon the official criteria set by the DIAC.

If you seem to be eligible, an agent will then contact you to discuss your application and will advise you on what type of visa you require for your circumstances. This is both a complex and crucial step as there are numerous types of visas available and applying for the wrong one will result in your application being rejected and the whole process having to be started again. Having decided on the right type of visa, they'll then collect, examine, assess, and process all of the information and documentation necessary for your application.

Want to learn more about emigrating to Australia? Click here to continue reading our guide: Emigrating To Australia

Marriage in China - Applications and Fees For US Citizens

Marriage in China - Applications and Fees for U.S. Citizens

This article is to provide U.S. Citizens with a cost summary for the legal paperwork you will need if you are considering a marriage in China. I understand how confusing and difficult it can be to find current and correct information. After bringing my Chinese spouse to the United States in just under 8 months in 2005, and without the use of an attorney, it just became natural for us to help others who seek information and wish to bring a Chinese spouse to the U.S. The easiest way to understand the cost of a marriage in China is to look at before and after your spouse arrives in the United States.

Cost Before a Chinese Spouse Arrives in the U.S.

Before leaving the U.S. for a marriage in China you will need to have civil documents notarized and authenticated by your local and state government as well as by the Chinese Consulate/Embassy having jurisdiction over the state where you live along with a passport and visa. After arriving in China there will be a cost to register your marriage to your Chinese spouse, to translate documents first to Chinese then after the marriage to have all legal documents translated back into English and notarized. As soon as your marriage in China is complete you can file your first paperwork with USCIS, the I-130 Petition for Alien Relative followed by the I-129F Petition. The cost of this first phase of documents and fees will be about $875, give or take a little depending on the regional Chinese Civil Affairs office that processes your paperwork to register your marriage in China.

Cost After a Chinese Spouse Arrives in the U.S.

After your marriage in China and the arrival of your spouse in the U.S. there will be a medical examination order from USCIS, the Petition to file for Permanent Resident, and then finger printing. The cost of this second phase will be around $1430.00. If there is a child coming with your Chinese spouse that is under 14 years of age you can add $600. If the child is over the age of 14 and under 21 add $930.

Vaccinations and Immunizations

When a spouse, child, or fiancee enter the United States the required vaccinations and immunizations for starting school will eventually be necessary, as well as for the I-693 Medical Examination for Permanent Resident or Adjustment of Status. If there are any records of vaccinations and immunizations have them notarized and translated to English before your Chinese spouse, fiancee, or any child leaves China. This will save time, money and needless injections after your Chinese spouse arrives in the U.S.

Keeping Your Marriage in China Simple

There are many documents, applications, and fees involved before leaving the U.S. for a marriage in China. In the China Marriage and K3 Visa Guide I break down this paperwork process into small steps that are easy to follow. For many, this has given them the ability to feel confident when traveling to China to register their marriage to their Chinese spouse and to file the necessary petitions with U.S. Citizens and Immigration Service (USCIS). More importantly, they know what the cost will be up-front by filing their own paperwork.

Randy Marsh is the Author of the China Marriage and K-3 Visa Guide. The Proven Step by Step Legal Process for Marriage in China http://ChinaMarriageGuide.com

To receive a Free report and case studies on bringing a Chinese spouse or fiancee to the United States visit http://USVisaToolbox.com

How to Get Rid of Blemishes and Improve Your Appearance With Yoga and Home Acne Remedies

Yoga can help you to get rid of blemishes because yoga is based on exercises, meditation, diet management and natural herbal medicines.

With yoga you will have a proper balance of body hormones. As you know that hormonal imbalance and the resulting changes in our body are key reasons for acne breakouts.

Yoga recommends a simple and easy to digest food, which helps in maintaining the hormonal balance in our body. This food may have spices like coriander, turmeric, cumin, neem flower, and fenugreek seeds. Some of these spices have antibacterial and natural healing properties, which help to get rid of blemishes.

External application of sandalwood and turmeric paste to pimples, blemishes and acne speeds us the healing process. Sandalwood produces a soothing effect, while turmeric has healing properties.

If you seriously want to get rid of blemishes with the aid of yoga, then you have to get very disciplined. Because yoga is all about disciplined life which helps not only in improving your physical appearance but also improves mental imbalances like panic, anxiety, worries, stress etc.

Yoga has breathing exercises (pranayama) as well as physical exercises or asanas. Breathing exercises help in increasing the supply of oxygen to various parts of our body. Exercises like sun salutation or "suryanamaskar", padmasana, pavanmuktasana etc involve forward bending and inverted bending postures. These exercises help the endocrine system and thus our entire body functioning improves.

Some of the advanced asanas like kapalbhati, makarasan, jal neti etc can be performed only under proper guidance. Yoga should only be performed after you learn it properly from a yogic teacher. Some of the advanced exercises, if performed incorrectly can cause damage.

Yoga along with some other home acne remedies can really speed up the process to get rid of blemishes.

Home acne remedies that you don't know yet - I am going to reveal to you secrets that can get rid of blemishes in a few days. This may seem impossible, but is actually 100 % true. Believe me, you can get rid of blemishes within few days. To see your blemishes vanish visit http://www.know-to.com/acne/acne.html.

Friday, June 12, 2009

Australian Citizenship Requirements

Australian citizenship requirements are the topic of this installment of our guide to emigrating to Australia...

To become a formal member of Australian society you need to apply for citizenship there. If you do so and are accepted then your rights, privileges and opportunities will be equal to those who were born in the country, and you'll no longer need to apply for visas to reside there.

Certain criteria are in place for you to be eligible for Australian citizenship; you should have been residing there for the last 2-4 years (exactly how long differs on personal circumstances), you must be planning to live there long-term, you should over 18 years old, and must be of good character (which is judged on references you provide and your criminal record). Additionally, a computerized test of 20 multiple choice questions on a range of aspects of Australia must be passed.

You can apply online or by post (application forms being available to download from the website of the Department of Immigration and Culture (DIAC) or from a branch of the Australian High Commission) and the fee is approximately $200. Prior to doing so you should thoroughly read through the information on the DIAC website regarding fees, concessions, exemptions, methods of application and the application process, as doing so will increase your chances of a successful application.

You could also consult with a migration agent, as they're experienced in the citizenship application process. Failed applications won't affect your permanent residence visa or your ability to continue living in Australia, but you won't get your application fee refunded.

The final step in the application process requires you to make the Pledge of Commitment at a special ceremony presided over by an Australian government official. After this has been done you'll receive a Citizenship Certificate which enables you to change have your documents (passport, driving license, etc.) amended to reflect your new status.

Want to learn about other aspects of emigrating to Australia? Click here to read more: Finding A Job In Australia Or Major Cities In Australia

Stopping Immigration World Wide

Everyone loves the region where they were born and raised with few exceptions. Who would choose to leave family and friends for an indefinite period of time? Who would leave knowing that a permanent reunion may never come and the next time home to stay may be in a box? Who would exit knowing maybe not even that will be possible? Imagine living in another country that is far away or not so far away from home, but living under difficult physiological, psychological, and moral conditions. Imagine not speaking the language, the local customs are foreign and having no understanding of the legal system, therefore every official is a threat. Imagine your own ex patriot fellow countrymen victimizing you whenever possible.

Imagine every other communication from home is a request, a plea or a demand for more money. Think of these circumstances as your life with almost no chance of redemption. No holidays, no weekends off, no time out, no chance for equal or fair pay, no get out of jail card, no deliverance, no kidding. Welcome to the life of the legal or illegal immigrant. Immigrants are leaving their home countries in record numbers because the minds bodies and labor they can provide are in heavy demand to feed the host countries needs, appetites, and addictions, for food, work, innovation, intelligence, child care, farming, drugs, and even sex. In fact is this really immigration at all, because the word "immigration" means - to enter and usually become established: to come into a country of which one is not a native for permanent residence.

This meaning in no way Encompass's or even marginally describes the actual situation that exists. Moving people from one area to another to simply enter or become established is not what is happening. Let's add another word as a helper like "indenture" which means - a contract binding one person to work for another for a given period of time. Now we are getting closer to the actual situation but we are not quit there yet. Now lets add on more word a descriptive but ugly word, "slavery" which means - drudgery, toil: submission to a dominating influence: state of a person who is chattel of another. Immigration, indenture, slavery, three words that are almost never associated or used in conjunction with each other, because if so used, we have to come to grips with some hard realities which are extremely uncomfortable and inconvenient. These words however they represent the true reality of the circumstances we live in today.

Slavery was never erased, wiped out, ended or done away with as our ultra modern dogma asserts, all it has done is undergo a form of metamorphosis. It has mutated into a more covert assiduous updated form, fully galvanized to corporate and governmental societal institutions. The enslaved today are construction laborers and alien factory workers working for years under the worst safety and environmental conditions possible for subsistence wages without access to family or proper health maintenance. The enslaved are young women tricked into prostitution for little or no money in a strange country, or perhaps sweat shop workers living in the shadows and working 12-16 hour days. Emancipation is now a cruel joke and all that matters is that the crops which feed the dominate societies, corporations, and countries are harvested on time. This happens because we the consumers allow it. Really we don't care what happens to an immigrant, indentured servant, or a slave as long as we get the fresh tomatoes, lettuce, greens, or produce. This is a pit of exploitation shared equally by many countries as diverse as the USA, Spain, South Africa and even Saudi Arabia and Brazil. Immigration is a global problem with local treatment of symptoms only.

We live next to these people we look, but not see them. They are like decorations machines or tools; they are utilized but not recognized. We have developed if not mastered a method of isolating ourselves from their plight. When ever we look at them and start to wonder about their lives we force ourselves to think of something else or we start to rationalize as to why it's not our concern. Truth is we are content with the way things are as long as our needs are being met and the au pair shows up on time to take care of the kids so we can have a night out. We want immigration but on our terms and that doe's not mean legal immigration it means convenient immigration. The supply of people available to do what we want, we demand be manipulated like any other commodity coming from a warehouse to a factory, the point is "on time delivery".

This means people available to do work and fulfill our needs at the exact time they are needed. Then they must be out of sight, out of mind, until required again. Of course people have a habit of not conforming to this regimen, so we pretend this is not the reality. We commission at best, guest worker programs and at worse a police state to manage immigrants by building walls at the borders to restrain and contain them. People would not immigrate in masse if they had what they need at home. The point is to make sure that does not happen. After all who would deliver breakfast with toast in a snowstorm at 7am in New York City on a holiday, if there were no Mexicans or someone like them?

What is the solution? Is it our entire fault? The only answers to these questions have to involve taking a clear unbiased view of the situation and coming to grips with some painful facts. If the demand for immigrants or the products or services they make possible is eliminated, then this would do a lot to cull the ranks of immigrants. However the truth is most of us do not want to eliminate the luxuries and niceties that fit so comfortably into our present life style.

The truth is the ease, entertainment and services that compose our lives make the leisure of ancient royalty pale in comparison. This soft life makes us desire exactly what they desired, slaves and servants. If we were all to adjust our lifestyles then there'd be fewer immigrants because the demand for them would be lower. Second we need to rein in our ever expanding desires for more food, services, drugs, debauchery and accept a simpler a more frugal temporal lifestyle. Thousands of Asian/oriental women are imported to western countries alone because Caucasian males find them different, mysterious, exotic, and more submissive than Caucasian women (be that finding libido fantasy or reality); it leads to mass immigration from the countries used to fulfill this need.

Yes, it is our fault by default and design because some of this is just clearly tied to our past histories, we simply inherited existing situations. Yes again, because we have constructed new avenues by which new kinds of immigration have sprung up and flourished based on new incentives we control. Wars bring immigration, mass agriculture brings immigration, the sex trade brings immigration, mass technology brings immigration, and even our refusal to take on tedious, dirty, dangerous or labor intensive jobs expands and solidifies the need for more immigration.

Striking at the source of the problem means taking a hard unpleasant look at the countries where immigrants come from, it does not matter which one you choose the story is usually the same. The source countries usually have economic, political, and social, instability, caste, or population issues that force exodus. Of course as a byproduct the more affluent countries, societies or regions of the world seem hell bent on keeping things exactly as they are. The result is the world has been carved up into locations of "haves" and "have not's" and this seems to serve the "haves" and their procurer's all too well!

Read more at the following websites:

http://www.squidoo.com/jobs-18
http://naturallylosebodyfat.blogspot.com/

Habib
Seattle, Washington, United States
He is an independent writer that seeks to bring to the forefront alternative and non status quo ideas. He is committed to seek and pass on views on dieting that delve into the non conformist views while highlighting the human factors of individuality par circumstance.

UK Citizenship Test - How to Pass the Life in the UK Test

Are you a candidate for the Life in the UK Test? People applying for UK citizenship (or for indefinite leave to remain) are required to take the Life in the UK Test. If your English skills are higher than ESOL Entry 3, you will need to pass the Life in the UK test before you submit your application for citizenship. Otherwise you will need to take citizenship classes. ESOL and citizenship classes help you to improve your English and learn more about life in the UK.

What to Expect

The exam is computer-based and is only available to take at an accredited Life in the UK Test centre in the UK (England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland). The test has 24 questions with a time duration of 45 minutes, With practice, the Life in the UK Test will become much easier. You are advised to read the relevant chapters from the official book a couple of times until you are confident. The questions are based on the information in the handbook 'Life in the UK: A Journey to Citizenship'(second edition). The answers to the questions can all be found in the book. This is the only official handbook for the Life in the UK Test.

Preparing to Pass

The test costs as much as ?34, and the official book can cost about ?10, so going into the test without the proper preparation can be both costly and time-consuming. You should make sure you use the Second Edition of the handbook when studying for the test. Going through the book on its own is unlikely to be as helpful as undertaking some practice tests. Anyone who has limited time to read the book should do this. In fact practice tests are highly recommended for anyone taking the test.

Make sure you take identification such as a passport; full or provisional UK photocard driving license; immigration status document endorsed with a UK Residence Permit, bearing a photograph of the holder; any of these Home office documents: Certificate of Identity Document, Stateless Person Document, or Convention Travel Document. Make a note of any reference numbers if you have taken test before.

Take unlimited Life in the UK test questions in exam conditions. Get a free ebook when you subscribe. There is no need to fail the test. Get all the practice and learning materials that you need british citizenship test.

Preparing For the Life in the UK Test

If you are planning to apply for settlement (also known as Indefinite Leave to Remain) you are required to pass the Life in the UK Test. If your level of English is lower than ESOL Entry 3 and you wish to apply for naturalisation or indefinite leave to remain, you will need to attend combined English language (ESOL) and citizenship classes instead.

The Exam

There are plenty of test centres up and down the UK to sit the test. You should book your test at least a couple of weeks before you plan to take it. There are also learning centres to help improve your keyboard skills. Take the test before you apply for naturalisation.

The test has 24 questions with a time duration of 45 minutes, With practice, the Life in the UK Test will become much easier. You are advised to read the relevant chapters from the official book a couple of times until you are confident.

Test questions are designed to test your knowledge on the chapters of the book, which are based on chapters 2, 3, 4, 5 & 6 of the revised handbook (second edition) "Life in the United Kingdom: A Journey to Citizenship". Most of the chapters are fairly easy, but some require a bit more effort.

Preparation is key

There are a lot of facts and figures which you will need to learn in order to pass the Life in the UK Test. There are many who have lived in the UK all their lives would find this test extremely challenging. A re-test costs around 34, so failing can be very expensive. It is advised that you join a practice test site to make sure you are fully prepared.

If you are getting at least 75% of answers (18 out of 24) correct most of the time, then you are ready for the official test, otherwise re-arrange your test date and undertake further study. Apply for settlement or submit citizenship application.

Take Life in the UK test questions in exam conditions. Review your test feedback and analysis as a guide for further revision and practice. Don't pay for another resit. Get all the practice and learning materials that you need british citizenship test.

K3 - Spouse Visa

The K3 spouse visa is a non-immigrant marriage visa. This visa came into effect in April of 2001. The purpose of this visa was to bring the spouse of the US Citizen to the United States to live as well as work. This visa has a two year validity to enter the US until the immigration procedure.

The applicant of a K3 visa must be the legal spouse (wife/husband) of the US Citizen and be legal married. The applicant must also be eighteen years old to sign the affidavit.

When applying for the K3 visa be prepared to have the following documents for the process. You will need documents that prove the sponsor is a US Citizen. You will need copies of your marriage certificate. If either party has been married before and now divorced, they will have to supply the proof of termination from previous marriage (death or divorce certificate). They couple will need valid passports, birth certificates and medical examination certificate.

The American citizen must file Form I-130 to establish the relationship with the applicant and Form I-129F with the USCIS (U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services). These need filed before applying for the K3 spouse visa. The US citizen will receive a Notice of Receipt which will then allow the US Citizen to forward the application to the country where the marriage had taken place. Once the petition has been approved, the USCIS will forward the petition to the US consulate where the applicant had applied for the K# spouse visa. The process varies as it could take a few months or up to a year or more.

There are many benefits to using the K3 visa over the other immigration visas. It is best to read all the benefits for the various immigration visas and decide what is best for your situation. The sooner the process is complete, the sooner you will be with your loved one.

We are here to make things a little easier during the K3 Visa process. We have a lot of useful information to help with all of your needs. Please visit us at http://www.visak1k3.com/k3-visa-news

Green Card Lottery DV-2010 Results Revealed - Find Out Today Online If You Can Live & Work in the US

The Diversity Visa Lottery (commonly known as the Green Card Lottery) gives 55,000 permanent residency visas to foreign national to come to live and work in the US. However being selected as a winner does not guarantee you a green card as you must pass some additional criteria as well in the application process.

You must have kept the confirmation page information from when you entered the DV Lottery between October and December 2008. The Status information for DV-2010 lottery is available online from July 1, 2009, until June 30, 2010. Between May and July 2009 results should be sent out to the lucky applicants with an official letter from the U.S. Department of State Kentucky Consular Center in Williamsburg, Kentucky. All notifications are by mail to your nominated address and you should note that there is NOT any email notification

There is NO cost to be in this lottery and many fraudulent sites charge you saying they will provide extra service by doing this for you at a fee and resubmit the application each year if it is unsuccessful. Do NOT fall for the SCAMS that try and charge you to enter the Green Card Lottery.

The actual DV-2010 visas will be issued between the period of October 1, 2009, and September 30, 2010. Applicants must obtain the diversity visa or adjust status by the end of the fiscal year. The notification letters will have additional instructions, including information about additional forms and other documentation required as well as immigrant visa application fees.

Unfortunately those who missed out on the green card and permanent residency will NOT receive any notification but for the first time ever will be able to check the status of their entry through the E-DV website.
If you missed out this year the Green Card Lottery (DV-2011 lottery) will begin in October 2009 for those wanting to enter this year with more information about this lottery due by September.

Hopefully you are one of the green card lottery (diversity visa lottery) winners!

CJ helps foreigners understand US Permanent Residency and get their Green Card by explaining the DV Lottery and the PERM process.

K-1 Visa Interview Issues

The climax of the US visa process is the K1 visa interview. This phase of the process may be the most anticipated, second only to the approval phase. In many ways, a US visa lawyer can be helpful in assisting a Thai with the fiance visa interview.

Many Thai Fiancees approach an impending visa interview with a sense of foreboding and fear. Many are afraid that they will do or say something that will cause their visa to be denied. Some are confused about what they need to bring to the interview. In a few cases, visa applicants are concerned about a sensitive issue in their past and hope to avoid discussing it or seek to conceal it.

For those who contemplate lying to the consular officers at the US Embassy be advised: consular officers are trained to be on the lookout for those wishing to use deceptive techniques in order to obtain a visa. If one is caught lying to a consular officer it could result in not only rejection of the present application, but a bar on entry to the United States for years. It is always a good decision to provide truthful answers to any of the consular officer's questions.

For those simply nervous about the K1 visa interview itself, it may be reassuring to point out that the consular officers are not in the habit of using the visa interview as a method of brow beating a Thai fiancee. Instead, the visa interview is a means of conducting due diligence in an effort to determine whether a couple's relationship is bona fide and the Thai fiancee is not legally inadmissible to the USA.

Often, K1 visas will be denied under 221 (g) of the Immigration and Nationality act. The word, "denial," is somewhat misleading in the context of a 221 g in the sense that it is not so much a denial as it is a request for more information. When a 221 g request is presented to the Thai fiancee it usually means that the petition was deficient in some way, usually some document is missing. The consular officer will remit a form to the Thai fiancee that stipulates what is missing and what needs to be presented in order for the consular section to process the K1 visa.

Should a fiancee receive an outright denial because the consular officer made the decision that the relationship was not bona fide, then that decision is unlikely to be subject to an appeal. However, should the consular officer deem the K1 visa applicant legally inadmissible to the USA, then there may be a waiver available for that ground of inadmissibility.

(Please note that the content contained herein is to be utilized for informational purposes only and should not be inferred as creating an attorney-client relationship between the author and any subsequent reader. One should always obtain legal advice from a competent licensed attorney.)

Ben Hart is a licensed lawyer from the United States. He is also President & Managing Director of Integrity Legal, a firm with offices in the USA and Thailand. To contact Integrity Legal please email Info@Integrity-Legal.com or call Toll Free 1-877-231-7533 For more information please see: http://www.integrity-legal.com

Green Card 101 - Details on Green Card

Procedures regarding immigration law are often very sensitive and timely. Legislation is under continual evaluation and reform, we like to keep our clients informed and updated. The following are some frequently asked questions about immigration processes:

Q: What is a green card?

A: A green card gives an alien (foreign national) the right to permanently live and work in the United States . The card itself is a government-issued identification (about the size of and resembles a driver's license), that serves as proof of permanent resident status in the U.S. A green card holder, also known as a lawful permanent resident (LPR), may leave and re-enter the U.S. at any time and has the opportunity to become a U.S. citizen. Although referred to as "permanent," a green card may be revoked if the holder breaks certain laws, does not maintain residence in the U.S., or travels outside the U.S. for an extended period of time.

Q: Can my relative sponsor me for a green card?

A: If you have a relative who is a U.S. citizen or who has permanent residency status, you may also be eligible to obtain permanent status in the United States . For the relative to sponsor you to immigrate to the United States , he/she must be a citizen or lawful permanent resident of the U.S. and be able to provide documentation proving that status. He/she must also provide documentation that shows that he/she can support you at above the mandated poverty line, by filling out an Affidavit of Support.

Most importantly, your eligibility to be sponsored by your relative in the United States depends on whether your relative is a U.S. citizen or a lawful permanent resident. Any U.S. citizen may sponsor his or her close family members for a green card. Provided that the sponsor is at least 21 years old, this includes a husband or wife, unmarried children under the age of 21, a married son and daughter of any age, siblings, and parents. A green card holder (lawful permanent resident), may sponsor their husband or wife, and/or unmarried son or daughter of any age.

Q: How long do I have to wait before I can apply for a green card?

A: If you wish to immigrate as a relative of a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident, you must obtain an immigrant visa number based on the preference category in which you qualify. People who want to become immigrants are classified into categories based on a preference system. The immediate relatives of U.S. citizens who include parents, spouses, and unmarried children under the age of 21 do not have to wait for an immigrant visa number to become available once the visa petition filed for them is approved by the USCIS. An immigrant visa number will become immediately available. The relatives in the remaining categories must wait for an immigrant visa number to become available according to the following preferences:

First Preference - unmarried, adult sons and daughters of U.S. citizens over the age of 21; Second Preference - spouses of lawful permanent residents, their unmarried children (under 21), and the unmarried sons and daughters of lawful permanent residents; Third Preference - married sons and daughters of U.S. citizens; and Fourth Preference - brothers and sister of adult U.S. citizens.

Once the USCIS receives the visa petition (Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative), it will subsequently be approved or denied according to the nature of the application. The USCIS notifies the person who filed the visa petition if it was approved. The approved visa petition will be sent to the Department of State's National Visa Center , where it will remain until an immigrant visa number is available. The Center will notify the foreign national when the visa petition is received and again when an immigrant visa number is available. You do not need to contact the National Visa Center unless you change your address, or if there is a change in your personal situation or that of your sponsor that may affect eligibility for an immigrant visa such as reaching age 21, marriage, divorce, or death of a spouse. The U.S. Department of State's website will tell how long it will take to apply for the green card depending on what preference category you fall into.

Naresh M. Gehi is an Attorney at Law with two offices located in Queens . For assistance in filing bankruptcy, please call (718) 263-5999 to schedule an appointment for a FREE personal consultation. Or, visit our website to know more about US Immigration Attorney Mr. Gehi; We also specialize in matters relating to, but not limited to, immigration law and divorce. Our website - http://www.immigrationquestion.com

5 Important Things to Consider Before Applying For Canadian Student Visa!

From the past few years, education institutions and universities from Canada have indulged in rigorous promotional activities to create awareness among international students, and attract them to pursue higher studies in Canada. The responsibility to market and promote Canada as a study destination and excellent education service provider relies on CEC (The Canadian Education Center) network, which is a non-profit company.

There are primarily two reasons that favor Canada's standing as the preferable study destination:

  • Higher education standards and renowned universities that are at par with US universities.
  • However, the education expenses are relatively very less.
So, in case you are tempted to pursue your higher studies from any of the reputed Canadian instructions, given below are a few things that you must consider especially if you are looking forward to Canadian settlement after your education and get a high-paying job.?
  1. Being international students, you may have to pay a little higher tuition fee than what Canadian students pay. Add onto this, your cost of living there.
  2. International students are not allowed to work for a fixed minimum number of hours every week. So, you must make sure that you can finance your studies and cost of living in Canada, even when you are not working.
  3. Students must dig in-depth information about the Canadian university or institution they are planning to enroll for. Impressive brochures, websites or audiovisual presentations must not influence your mind. Many times, educational institutions that visit India for promotion provide only a few basic diplomas that help students in pursuing university level studies. Seeking advice of immigration consultants is the best way to go in choosing the right university and going about the successful completion of immigration procedure for Canada.
  4. It would be a good idea to ask for graduated students from the university and get a syllabus handout of the course you are willing to pursue. Talking to current or ex-students of the university is an important thing that will give you the true picture of the quality of education that is offered. Do not get swayed by glowing credentials and sweet talk.
  5. Get in touch with your immigration expert and they will tell you that students who had been studying in Canada for over 8 months may extend an application for work permit for joining a job after they have obtained a degree or passed a course. This kind of work permit is termed as 'practical training', though sometimes it can be difficult for international students to get a suitable job as local students are preferred by many employers.
Keeping these things in mind will help you prepare yourself for the smooth transition to the Canadian student life ahead. If you have long term plans for settling down in Canada, you may like to advise your parents to file an application for permanent resident visa as well.

Though you may apply for Canadian immigration on your own but it is advisable to seek guidance of an experienced immigration consultant for an easy transition to Canada by avoiding expensive mistakes that may even cost you your career.

Ajay Sharma is an immigration expert who provides his valuable advice to people seeking immigration in countries like Canada, Denmark, USA, Australia and many others. With years of experience under his belt, he is the principal immigration consultant of ABHINAV.com, which is in business since 1994. Over the years, Abhinav has continually stood the test of time and has helped its clients in accomplishing their relocation dreams to foreign lands, successfully and smoothly.

Maintain Your H-1B Status In Today's Economy

The slow economy in recent times has compelled many employers, especially those in the Information Technology industry, to lay off H-1B employees. Unfortunately, a lot of H-1B employees wind up in troubled waters once they are notified by their employers regarding the termination of their employment. It is extremely important for an H-1B visa holder to be in status at all times.

Loss of employment and termination of the H-1B status can result in the candidate becoming illegal in the United States. Sometimes, a candidate may be out of status and may accrue unlawful presence. Unlawful presence occurs when an H-1B candidate continues to reside in the United States after the expiration of the I-94 document and has no other application for relief pending with the USCIS. Once a person accrues unlawful presence in the United States, he or she then may be subjected to the three year or ten year bar. For example, if an H-1B candidate has accrued unlawful presence for more than 6 months, he or she is subjected to the three year bar. However, if the candidate continues to accrue unlawful status for more than one year, he or she will be subjected to the 10 year bar.

WHAT ARE THE EMPLOYERS OBLIGATIONS IF AN H-1B HOLDER IS TERMINATED?

Once an H-1B visa employee is terminated, it is the duty of the employer to settle all wage issues with the employee and provide the employee with a ticket to his or her home country. Additionally, the employer should also inform the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services regarding the termination of the services of the H-1B employee. H1b employee is required to get the same benefits received by a US worker, in terms of severance package, health insurance continuation at employee's expense etc. If you find another job and your employer has already provided air tickets to you to go back to your home country, you can't cash that air tickets.

WHAT SHOULD AN H-1B VISA HOLDER DO TO PROTECT HIS OR HER STATUS?

If you are an H-1B visa holder and if you anticipate that your status will be terminated, it may be possible to apply for another status. There are different options available. The individual may qualify for another category depending upon his/her situations. For example H-1B holder may transfer his/her status to an H4 visa and also can acquire his/her student status for further studies. There are various realistic options to maintain your presence legally in United States; we recommend you to contact Immigration Attorney immediately. An attorney assists you to transfer your visas or recommends other realistic options.

? Education
? Change of Employer
? Change of Visa Status

For example, we recently succeeded in assisting an H-1B holder in transferring to an H4, and thereafter, we also assisted him in obtaining an H-1B again after he found another employer.

If you or any of your friends are about to lose your jobs and are currently on H-1B visas, we highly recommend you visit the law offices of N.M. Gehi, P.C. For assistance in transferring your h1b visa status, to maintain lawful status in United States and h1b related matters, please call (718) 263-5999 to schedule an appointment or else click here to schedule for a FREE personal consultation. Or, visit our website for more realistic options given by US Immigration Attorney Mr.Gehi at http://www.immigrationquestion.com We also specialize in matters relating to, but not limited to, immigration law and divorce.

Monday, June 8, 2009

Information and Tips on South African Spousal, Life-Partner Permits

While South Africa is a key destination for many tourists and foreigners, many South Africans who visit foreign countries come back to their home country with the hopes of their current or future foreign spouses (husbands or wives) or foreign life-partners (partners in a permanent relationship) residing with them in their beautiful home country.

What is a South African Spousal Permit

All foreigners require a permit to reside legally in South Africa, whereby a spouse (husband or wife) of a South African would need to apply for a spousal permit. A temporary residence permit can be issued to a foreign spouse who has been married to a South African for less than 5 years, but in turn, permanent residence can only be applied for once the couple have been married for 5 years or more. An excellent tip would be: it is safer to apply for temporary residence first (whether married for more or less than 5 years), as permanent residence takes approximately 18 months (these timescales are not guaranteed), therefore the foreign spouse would be legal to reside in South Africa, whether applying for permanent residence or not.

What is a South African Life-Partner permit?

This permit is practically the same as a spousal permit, but the partner (not spouse) of a South African who has been in a permanent relationship will be required to apply for a life-partner permit. In order to receive this permit, documentation would need to be submitted as proof that the relationship has existed for the said number of months/years. A temporary residence permit can be issued to the foreign life-partner of the South Africa who has been in a relationship for less than 5 years (as with the spousal permit). Permanent Residence can only be applied for once the partners have been in a permanent relationship for 5 years or more. As with the spousal permit, it would be best to apply for temporary residence first, as permanent residence takes approximately 18 months (these timescales are not guaranteed), therefore, allowing the partner to reside with the South African legally while waiting to apply or receive a result from permanent residence.

South Africa has a diverse constitution; therefore, same-sex relationship partners or civil union partners are able to apply for South African spousal or life-partner permits.

Can a Foreigner Work/Operate a Business/Study on a South African Spousal / Life-Partner Permit?

It is a hug advantage and beneficial to obtain a South African spousal or life-partner temporary residence permit, as foreigners who are on these permits are able to work, operate a business or study in South Africa with the correct endorsement. This permit negates the need for work permits and business permits to be applied for and all the vast number of documentation that is required. While these spousal or life-partner permit endorsements require on a few additional documents to enable the foreigner to work/operate a business or study in South Africa.

Tips: If a foreigner will be working, operating a business or studying in South Africa, it is best to know exactly what you want, as these endorsements are specific, therefore, the name of employer/business or educational institution will be mentioned on the permit, not allowing the foreigner work for another company, operating a different business or studying with a different institution, without re-applying (with an entirely new application) for a new specific endorsement on the spousal or life-partner permit.

What is the length of these permits and can these permits be extended?

The length of the temporary residence permit is decided by the Department of Home Affairs, these permits can be issued for a period between 1 - 3 years. Yes, the South African spousal or life-partner temporary residence permits can be extended at the end of their validity, provided that the proof of relationship or marriage certificate is submitted with the extension application.

As South African's love their country and it is their constitution right to have their spouses or life-partners residing in South Africa, many foreign spouses or life-partners are taking the opportunity to experience the beauty and vast cultures of South Africa with their loved ones.

Friday, June 5, 2009

Is America Still a Melting Pot?

Growing public opinion surrounding the national borders of the United States has fueled debates in the nation's capital by politicians demanding stricter enforcement of border patrol and regulation. The topic of immigration is under scrutiny as the national threat of terrorist attacks from unfriendly nations rocked the world in the early days of the twenty first century. Since the attack of September 11, 2001 legislation regarding the nation's borders has been on the forefront of political leaders' minds throughout the nation. The requirements of naturalization for legal and illegal aliens residing in the United States have been tightened as the terror threat continues to loom over the country.

Those that live and work in the United States after fleeing another country are finding it increasingly difficult to be granted visas and legal resident status because of government crackdowns along the borders. Once the gateway to America for immigrants entering the country through New York harbor, immigration lawyers in New York are assisting foreign nationals to gain permission to remain in the United States legally. People of Middle Eastern descent are especially concerned about issues of deportation or possible imprisonment based on their ethnic backgrounds.

Immigration attorneys in New York are fighting the government to allow peace abiding foreign nationals the opportunity to become naturalized citizens of the United States. The immigration process already includes a thorough background investigation conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation that includes a fingerprint verification of everyone filing for legal residency and naturalization status. Once nicknamed the melting pot, has America closed the doors on the tired, the poor, and the huddled masses yearning to breathe free?

Berd and Klauss, PLLC (http://www.berdklauss.com) is an immigration attorney in New York The firm represents clients that require an immigration lawyer in New York. Billings Farnsworth is a freelance writer.

Marriage in China - The Cost For a US Citizen

As the Author of the China Marriage and K3 Visa Guide one of the most popular questions I'm often asked is: "After my Chinese spouse arrives in the United States what is the total cost for a marriage in China?" After you are married in China and your spouse enters the U.S. on a K3 Visa, the cost will vary depending on the choices you make and how you proceed. Over the years I have developed many alliances with U.S. Citizens who have successfully married in China and brought a spouse to the U.S. along with those who have filed petitions to bring a fiancee to the U.S. to marry here. Our case studies cover both, with and without the use of an attorney. As we discuss the total cost we need to look at 3 important factors: 1. Legal cost; 2. Transportation; and 3. Filing documents, paperwork and fees. In part one, we'll look at the legal cost of hiring an attorney.

Marriage in China - Legal Cost of Hiring an Attorney

Many of our readers have been lured to advertisements for immigration attorneys for as little as $500 to $800. Our case studies prove that on average U.S. Citizens hiring an attorney for help bringing their spouse or fiancee to the United States from China will pay $2000 to $2500 to have an attorney fill out their forms and mail them to U.S. Citizens and Immigration Service (USCIS). In one case a gentleman from Wisconsin paid over $5000 dollars. The sad part is, in that case it took his Chinese spouse the longest time to arrive in the United States after his marriage in China, 2 years and 8 months because of mistakes in filing. On the other hand, we have discovered many U.S. Citizens who have filed their own paperwork and their Chinese spouses arrived in the United States in as little as 8 months after receiving a K3 Visa. If you do decide to hire an attorney you will need to talk price up-front. Its best to ask for a flat rate so you know the final cost. If you decide to do your own paperwork and save the money there are U.S. Citizens who have first-hand experience with bringing a spouse from China. You can connect with them on sites like US Visa Toolbox or in forums such as those offered by Travel China Guide.

In the next informative article from US Visa Toolbox we will break down the cost for filing documents and petitions for a marriage in China. We will also look at different ways many U.S. Citizens have saved a bundle of money on traveling to China.

Randy Marsh is the Author of the China Marriage and K-3 Visa Guide. The Proven Step by Step Legal Process for Marriage in China http://ChinaMarriageGuide.com

To receive a Free report and case studies on bringing a Chinese spouse or fiancee to the United States visit http://USVisaToolbox.com

Pros and Cons of Returning to India

The west has always portrayed itself as a symbol of prosperity and free will; where your work is respected no matter what it is that you are doing. Things like good pay and job value have drawn people consistently to the US and Europe. Indians have been at the forefront of this immigration from India to the western countries. It is not very hard to empathize with them because India and its citizens have always sought higher education and better employment opportunities any which way they come.

Indians are prepared to face any kind of challenge that is posed to them as long as they get rewarded handsomely for their efforts. With the recent economic downturn; India has become more resistant to recession than any other country and has therefore put itself in a position that the Americas and Europe enjoyed a few decades ago. Indians abroad now want to return home sighting the job opportunities at hand.

This process of returning to India and looking for a job does have its ups and downs. Now on the brighter side, the economic condition of the Indian subcontinent being more stable than those in the west means that there are potentially more jobs on offer. This also means that the competition for these jobs is good thereby drawing a rich horde of potential employees from within the country as well as abroad. This eventually leads to an improvement in the quality of work that is performed as well as the efficiency of operations. Non Resident citizens of India returning from abroad have to adapt to a few things however before they can jump immediately to working in the home atmosphere in India. The advantages of not working immediately upon return to India range from getting adapted to the local conditions to knowing what sort of jobs are on demand.

The main advantage however rests with the fact that the Non-Resident citizen is used to certain standards of living in the west and he/she may not find anything and everything that is happening with the employment scene in India completely acceptable. Taking some time off upon return to India will give one a chance to observe the local job scene and how things work in an office. NRI's will be used to more job value in the west but such things are a little less pronounced in India, but then you do get relatively more respect compared to your juniors. Spending time can also give one an opportunity to learn more about the work ethics in India and the moral values of the people.

The main disadvantages of taking a break though remains in finding the right kind of job. The more time you spend being idle the more are the opportunities you waste. Also some immigration policies would prefer its NRIs working than idle and feeding off the Indian economy. As the economic scene changes globally, even the smallest details have to be taken into account, which will help us take a decision on whether to work immediately upon returning to India or not.

HS is the webmaster of IMRTI. He has years of work experience in the IT sector both in India and the USA. He has started a revolution of sorts by taking the return to India wave to another level through his innovative website.

His themed outlook towards the relocation idea is reflected in his writing about these ideas. He knows the Indian job industry in and out and writes about it just as well.

K-1 Fiance Visa - An Overview of Bringing Your Foreign Fiance To the US

Becoming engaged is one of the most important things a person can do. While making wedding arrangements is enough work in and of itself, obtaining a visa to allow your foreign fianc?o come to the US to marry can seem like a daunting task. The K-1 visa, also known as a fianc?isa, allows your non-US fianc?o travel to the US for up to 90 days in order to marry you. Here's what you should know about getting one:

1. You must be a US citizen in order to petition for a K-1 visa on behalf of your foreign fianc?US permanent residents cannot petition for a K-1 visa.

2. Both you and your fianc?ust be able to get married. Essentially this means that you must both be of
legal age and any previous marriages must be over.

3. You and your fianc?ust have met with each other in person at least once within the previous two years before filing the petition. Since your fianc?n most cases does not already have permission to enter the US, this means you must have traveled to see her at least once in the last two years.

4. You, or someone willing to sponsor your fianc?must be above the poverty line. In most cases this will require you to show that you meet minimum income requirements.

5. Your fianc?ill need to undergo a medical exam, as well as an interview at the US embassy closest to where she resides.

The process of obtaining the K-1 visa is twofold. First, you must file a petition with USCIS on behalf of your fianc?Once the petition is approved, USCIS will send it to the American embassy closest to where your fianc?s located. The embassy will then contact your fianc?o schedule a medical exam and interview. Your fianc?will also be asked to submit certain documents.

You may accompany your fianc?o the interview. Some petitioners have reported that this increases the chances of approval. The embassy officer will ask you and your fianc? series of questions to determine whether the relationship is real and non-fraudulent.

When your request for the K-1 visa for your fianc?s approved, she will have 6 months to travel to the US. She may only enter the US once with the visa and she will have 90 days to marry you. There are no possible extensions. If the marriage does not take place, she will have to leave the country. If the marriage takes place within 90 days, your fianc?an obtain conditional permanent residency and can stay in the US to live with you.
After 2 years, your spouse will be eligible to petition to remove the conditional status and gain permanent residency.

A licensed attorney can help you through the process of obtaining a K-1 visa for your fianc?/p>

Erik Morales is an attorney who runs a website offering info about the K-1 Visa process. He also offers assistance with obtaining the K-1 Fiance Visa. You may reach his website at http://www.getak1visa.com

How Do You Apply For the L-1 Visa So You Can Transfer to the US to Live & Work?

The United States L1 visa allows companies situated in the US and overseas to transfer employees from its foreign operations to the US operations for up to seven years.

After the maximum period in L-1 visa status, the employee must be employed leave the US for at least a minimum of 1 year before a new application is made for the L-1 visa or even H-1B Visa status. The employee must have worked for the US company outside of the US for at least one year out of the last three years.?

Companies operating in the US can apply to the relevant USCIS service center for an L1 visa to transfer someone to the US from their overseas operations. Employees in this category will, initially, be granted an L-1 visa for up to three years.

An L-1 visa petition is filed with the USCIS on Form I-129, along with the Form I-129L supplement.

Canadian citizens applying for the L-1 visa under NAFTA (North American Free Trade Agreement), the petition may be filed at the port of entry like the airport or land border.

The 2 types of employees who are eligible for the L-1 visa;

a) Specialized Knowledge

Employees with significant expertise in the company's products or services, major systems or procedures, research and development or patentented techniques are issued an L-1B visa, initially for 3 years able to be extended to a maximum of 5 years.

b) Managers

The executive or manager? category can be strict and usually requires a detailed description of the role. The person should either have a supervisory responsibility for staff or a major demonstrated prominent role. The L-1A visa would be issued in this case, for a 3 year period initially and then able to be extended in two year increments up to a maximum of 7 years.

CJ shows foreigners how they can apply for the L-1 Visa and transfer to the US for employment

How to Apply to Become a US Citizen

Once you have decided to become a citizen of the "Land of Opportunities" then I bet you are wondering how to go about it. I am sure you know that there is paper work and forms to complete and I know that you will have heard about the dreaded citizen test. But how do you start the ball rolling?

The easiest way is to hire an immigration lawyer who will happily deal with all the laborious forms and litigations that you will have to go through and offer you advise on sitting the exam. Immigration lawyers however are extremely expensive and if you are in the minority who can afford this luxury then this is your answer.

Most of us however do not have spare cash lying around waiting to be devoured by lawyers. In which case the process is going to be slightly more difficult for you. Don't get me wrong, it is exactly the same process, you just won't have someone checking your forms and getting you onto the next step, it will all be on you. But I promise, it is by no means impossible.

Applying to become a US citizen is straight forward and relatively user friendly. First of all you need to have lived on US soil for a minimum of five years, each of these years spending at least six months in the country. Without having done this you will not be able to apply to become a legal immigrant.

The next step is to fill in the citizen application form. This form you can collect from the USCIS or download and is generally straight forward to fill in. You must be one hundred percent truthful within this form however as any lies can and will be discovered prolonging the process or even halting it all together.

The final step is the Citizen Test. This is the most feared element, but even if you are one of the few who can afford an immigration lawyer, when it comes to this test, you're on your own. The good thing about it however is that the questions are straight forward and there are sample questions available on the internet and lots of guides on how to pass it out there to get you through it.

And that's it, simple huh? I know it seems daunting, but when you break it down it really isn't that bad at all.

To improve your chances of success, you need to learn more about how to apply to become a US Citizen, so visit our squidoo for free information on the process, the forms and the test questions: http://www.squidoo.com/US-citizen-application

US Citizen Test Questions - Here Are Some Sample Q-As to Help You!

When going through the process of becoming an American citizen, there is one point that worries people more than most. If you hadn't guessed already, it is the USCIS Test Questions. The mere mention of these can leave those about contemplating undergoing the test a total nervous wreck. But really are they that bad?

We will look at some sample questions and give you tips on how to practice for your upcoming exam to enable you to walk into that examination hall confident, and to walk out a U.S citizen.

Here are ten of the possible hundred questions you could be asked in the exam, see how you do:

1. What is the constitution?
2. How many branches are there in our government?
3. Who makes the laws in the United States of America?
4. Who said "Give me liberty or give me death"?
5. Where does the freedom speech come from?
6. What are the colors of our flag?
7. How many stars are there on our flag?
8. What do the stars mean on the flag?
9. How many states are there in the union?
10. What is the fourth of July?

Some of these you will have had no problem in answering; others may have been more problematic. But the great thing is that the question are there for you on the internet, and if you are truly dedicated to becoming a U.S citizen then it won't take much revision to get you up to A+ quality.

A great website to help you revise is the US Government Info site. On there you will get all of the possible questions you could be asked along with the answers ready at your finger tips waiting for you to test your knowledge. Along with the questions this site will also provide great information on current issues and any changes within the test. It is an unbiased and factual website that you can rely on as it is provided by the US Government.

If computer based support is not your cup of tea, get in touch with your Community Based Organization, also known as the CBO. These guys will offer you support in your mission to pass the US citizen test. These can be easily located through the wonders of the internet with a quick search. Failing that there are tons of useful guides on how to pass the citizen test, all you have to do is select one that best suits you.

Good Luck!

Answers:

1. The supreme law of the land
2. There are three branches in our government
3. Congress make the law of the United States
4. Patrick Henry
5. The bill of rights
6. Red, white and blue
7. 50
8. One for each state in the union
9. There are 50 states
10. Independence Day

To learn more about the U.S Citizen Test Questions you will have to deal with in your application, visit our squidoo for free information on the process, the forms and the test questions: http://www.squidoo.com/US-citizen-application

Australian Immigration Visas

Australian immigration visas are the topic for this installment of our guide to emigrating to Australia...

There are several types of visa that can be applied for when emigrating to Australia depending on how long you plan to stay there and what you'll be doing there. These are the main types:

The skilled independent visa is a residency visa for those with qualifications and skills in demand. You're not required to have an employer to sponsor you to get one but a test will need to be passed (which assesses your qualifications, experience, aptitude, etc.). An alternative is a business visa, which doesn't require you to pass a points test so long as you're sponsored by an employer.

A working holiday visa allows people aged 18 to 31 to stay in Australia for up to 12 months (with extensions being a possibility). working rights are limited to incidental employment of up to 6 months per employer to supplement your stay, which means that these are only really beneficial to backpackers and travelers, not people looking to establish themselves in the country on a long term basis.

Retirement visas are meant for self-funded retirees who are 55 years or older, have no dependents (other than a spouse who can be any age), and who want to reside in Australia during their retirement years. It's a temporary visa that permits you to stay in the country for four years, though you can apply for subsequent ones on expiry, with each allowing you to stay for a further four years.

To obtain a visa to study in Australia you're required to be enrolled in an Australian academic institution and receive a Confirmation of Enrollment (which is usually issued after tuition fees have been paid). Those planning to also undertake any form of employment will need to apply for one with the additional right of 'permission to work'.

Australian partner visas enable the partner, fiance, or spouse of those permanently residing in Australia (including immigrants) to also live and work in the country. Family visas can be obtained to also get these rights for dependent relatives and children.

Want to learn more about emigrating to Australia? Click here to continue reading our guide: Emigrating To Australia