Everyone is looking for working acne treatment solutions. This is largely because, beyond leaving ugly blemishes on your skin, acne can deliver a punishing blow to a person's self esteem, regardless of their age. Not all acne treatment solutions work for everyone. If there was one across the board solution, everyone would use it and acne would no longer be an issue. Sadly, that's not the reality in our society. There has been an increasing amount of evidence amount doctors to link diet and acne together. In the past the two were thought to have little to do with each other. Today, however, it's being proven that agents in certain foods do not get digested or cleansed completely by the body's organs such as the kidneys. This allows certain harmful agents to move about the body and one of the ways in which they manifest is in the form of acne. There is evidence for this in a number of ways, the lack of acne cases in indigenous people being one. While it's foolish to think about switching to the diet of someone from the settlers times, there are certain substances which you can cut back on. This is why, in recent years especially since there has been more proof between the two, a number of detox based acne treatment solutions have surfaced. These treatments involve cleansing the body entirely of danger foods and drinks and keeping their consumption to a minimum. This form of acne treatment solutions have shown to have remarkable and immediate response rates among acne sufferers who try them. If you'd like to learn more about detox based acne treatment solutions and which substances you should cut back on and which you should avoid altogether, visit http://www.yourreviewsite.com/AcneCures/index.html for more information.
Thursday, July 23, 2009
Acne Treatment Solutions - A Solution You Haven't Considered
3 Winning Acne Skin Solutions
There are a number of acne skin solutions on the market involved annoying and expensive creams and pills which dry out your skin and lips or have harmful and scary side effects. This causes people to look for more natural acne skin solutions. There are a number of things you can do in your everyday life to significantly reduce your chance of future breakouts, as well as diminish your existing acne. Jogging - Aerobic exercise is a natural way to release endorphins into your body from the pituitary gland. Endorphins give you a sense of well being and happiness to greatly. They also consequently greatly reduce levels of stress which has an effect on hormones, ultimately yielding clear skin. Owning healthy skin goes hand in hand with owning a healthy body. Hygiene - It may seem obvious, but proper washing habits are paramount to having clean skin and is one of the major acne skin solutions. Wash your face twice a day, no more as that can agitate the skin. Don't use a washcloth, either, as it will do the same. Use a non-comedogenic or non pore clogging soap to do so, and if your skin gets too dry, use a non-comedogenic lotion, as well, which has been specially formulated for the face. Pat your skin dry once you're finished with a soft towel, and wash your face right before bed especially. During the day, don't touch your face as it will agitate your acne but also spread the acne causing bacteria around your face and cause further breakouts. Diet - Nutrition and diet are also very influential on your skin and in recent years has been given a great deal of more credibility in becoming one of the best acne skin solutions. Some foods do not get processed, digested, or cleansed as well as others and contain agents which is not good for your skin. Blocking of the pores occurs and acne is the result. This is why, particularly in recent years as the correlation between acne and diet has been given more and more evidential proof, a number of detox based acne skin solutions have come out. These methods involve cleansing the body of acne causing agents and leaving consumption to a minimum. Additionally, these acne skin solutions have yielded remarkable and immediate results amount patients who this, largely because it attacks and prevents acne at its source. If you'd like to learn more information on the "danger" foods, or for more information, visit http://www.yourreviewsite.com/AcneCures/index.html to learn more and take control of your acne today.
Eb5 Visas - Who Applies For Them?
Whether you are seeking to enter the United States or are simply curious about eb5 visas and want to learn more, you might be interested to know who typically uses them. The eb5 visa is also known as an investment visa, as either a $500,000 to $1 million investment is required to qualify. With this money, those who want eb5 visas have to open a business and create jobs for at least ten United States citizens. However, there are not many requirements beyond those, which might make you wonder who is applying for this type of visa. Some people do not need to enter the U.S., but simply want to, as they have lived their lives in another country and want to experience living in the United States. These people might include retirees. Those who open a new company in areas known for being great to retire in, such as California and Florida, are often older and ready to own a business. Since they simply have to provide the initial investment for it and not run it each day, eb5 visas can be perfect for retirees looking to enjoy life in the United States. You do not need to be retiring to see the benefits of living in the United States. The cost of living is less than that of many countries, and the schools are also often considered better. Plus, most quality schools here are free, unlike some countries. Thus, families with children might be interested in eb5 visas, as well. Since the investor can move their family here, including children under age 21, it is a great way to get a feel for life in the U.S. For the first two years, the investor and their family will have a conditional visa. If they still enjoy this country after five years, they can apply for citizenship. This makes eb5 visas a fast track to getting into this country, owning a business, and eventually becoming a citizen after a few years of residency. Students who are graduating from college in the United States might also be interested in the eb5 visa. If they do not want to leave the country soon after graduation, and can obtain a large business loan, this type of visa can allow them to open a business. If they open a company related to their major, it can help them get real world experience and find out if they want to stay in that career forever, or if it is not for them. This is particularly helpful for business students. No matter who you are, you might find eb5 visas interesting enough to consider. Simply getting to know more about them and the type of people who often apply for them can help make a final decision. Whether you are a recent graduate, a soon-to-be retiree, or someone with a family, an eb5 visa is worth looking into.? For more information on who qualifies for an EB5 green card or visit the http://eb-5investorgreencard.com website for information on obtaining an EB-5 visa.
Benefits of the Eb5 Visa Regional Center Plan
If you want to enter the United States as soon as possible, it might seem like you have few options. Most green card programs take years to allow immigrants into the country, and they have many requirements. However, be advised that there is a way to enter this country after fulfilling only a few conditions. If you want to move to the United States with your family as soon as possible, you should learn about the eb5 visa Regional Center route. You might have heard of this visa, which requires you to make a one million dollar investment in a business in the United States. After proving you have the capital, starting a new company or taking over an old business, and creating ten or more full-time jobs for U.S. citizens, you have fulfilled your side of the bargain. Often, you can be living in the United States within eight months under this system. If getting together a million dollars seems intimidating, consider whether you could get a business loan for $500,000 instead. If so, you can still start your own business using the eb5 visa, but you would simply start it in a targeted area, which has unemployment rates that are higher than the nation's average. There are about 50 of them scattered through this country, with more on the way, and most of them have a Regional Center that helps you hire employees. This means that for half the price of a regular eb5 visa, and in a much faster time period than a regular green card, you could be living in the U.S. with your own business through the eb5 visa Regional Center pathway. The shorter time it takes to obtain this type of visa, which averages six to ten months, is just one of its benefits. There is also no labor requirement, unlike typical green cards that request that you have a job. You will own your own business, but you do not necessarily have to take part in everyday management. This is particularly an advantage of the eb5 visa Regional Center route, as targeted areas often have people there to help you hire employees and make other decisions. Additionally, you can choose to live anywhere in the country. Even if you use the eb5 visa Regional Center route, you do not have to live in the city where your business is located, especially if you do not plan to be involved in day-to-day operations. You can move your immediate family, including unmarried children under the age of 21, with you to the United States with this visa type. As long as you have the ambition and investment capital to go along with this type of opportunity, you should. Taking the eb5 visa Regional Center route offers more flexibility and advantages than most other methods of entering the United States. For more information on who should consider an EB5 regional center or visit the http://eb-5investorgreencard.com website for information on obtaining an EB-5 visa.
DNA Test For Family Based Immigration Cases
In a family-based immigration petition, the applicants are required to submit primary documents such as birth certificate, school records, and other documents that help verify the claimed family relationships. When these initial or secondary documents are missing or have proved inconclusive, the U.S. immigration authorities such as USCIS or U.S. embassies overseas may request the petitioner and the beneficiaries to take a DNA test in order to determine the biological relationship scientifically and conclusively. The immigration applicants bear the complete responsibilities of arranging and paying for DNA testing. However, the U.S. immigration authorities strictly require that the DNA test, if pursued, be performed by one of the laboratories accredited by the AABB (formerly American Association of Blood Banks). Typically, DNA testing is utilized to determine paternity, maternity and siblingship in family based immigration cases. Most immigration applicants may need these DNA tests under the following circumstance: The majority of the applicants who choose to take a DNA test are requested by USCIS after they file the petition or by the U.S. embassies/consulates after their interview because their primary documents do not satisfy the immigration authority to approve the petition. The request may come in a form of Request for Further Evidence (RFE) or Notice of Intent to Deny (NOID). In this situation, the DNA test is completely voluntary and optional. However, because of the conclusive power of DNA family relationship testing, the testing results are regarded as a piece of critical evidence for the immigration purposes. If an individual opts for the DNA test to prove the family relationship, he or she can contact one of the AABB-accredited DNA testing laboratories that are approved by the U.S. immigration authorities to perform this type of test. Typically, the DNA laboratories with knowledge about the immigration DNA test process will send a specimen collection kit to the requesting U.S. immigration agency overseas or its designated panel physicians, who will arrange and witness the specimen collection for tested parties overseas. The tested parties residing in U. S. can go to one of the specimen collection facilities associated with the testing laboratory. At the collection, the tested parties will be properly identified and their IDs verified to satisfy chain of custody, which ensures that the testing results can be used as legal evidence. The collected specimens then will be shipped directly back to the testing laboratory in U.S. for analysis. When results are generated, the DNA laboratory will send the results directly back to the requesting USCIS field office or U.S. embassy/consulate overseas in conformity with the official immigration testing protocols. If chain of custody is broken in this process, the immigration authorities can challenge the results. The DNA test results cannot always guarantee the approval of an immigration case. Related information about DNA test for immigration purposes can be found on USCIS website and on Department of State's website. Universal Genetics (http://www.universalgenetics.com) is a leading AABB-accredited DNA testing laboratory in the U. S. Conveniently located in Los Angeles and with a large specimen collection network across the country, Universal Genetics has helped a lot of immigration applicants bring their families together through DNA testing. Universal Genetics has accumulated comprehensive and in-depth knowledge about immigration DNA tests and the testing protocols. It has a service team that is able to speak multiple languages including English, Spanish, Chinese, Vietnamese and Korean. Universal Genetics is proud to be a specialized DNA testing laboratory for immigration purposes.
Immigration Laws in the United States
Immigration law is the federal law which regulates immigration to the United States. Immigration law in the United States is governed by federal statutes and determines whether a person is an alien, the rights, duties, and obligations associated with being an alien in the United States, and how aliens gain residence or citizenship within the United States. Immigration laws also deal with asylum seekers. The Naturalization Act of 1790 was the first federal immigration statute. Modern immigration rules are governed by the Immigration and Nationality Act of 1952. This Act created the Immigration and Naturalization Service also known as the INS to serve as the federal agency responsible for the enforcement of immigration laws. However post 9/11, the INS was replaced by the Department of Homeland Security. Three agencies of the Department of Homeland Security - U.S. Customs and Border Enforcement (CBE), U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) - now perform the duties of the INS. The Immigration Act of 1990 equalized the allocation of visas across foreign nations, eliminating archaic rules, and encouraging worldwide immigration. The Immigration Reform and Control Act of 1986 deals with illegal immigration. This Act imposed tough criminal sanctions on employers hiring illegal aliens. The Illegal Immigration Reform and Immigrant Responsibility Act of 1996 regulates the process of an alien entry into the United States. A person can become a US citizen by birth or by naturalization. Naturalization is the process by which aliens can become US citizens. The process of naturalization is governed by the Immigration and Nationality Act. An alien seeking US citizenship must file an application with the USCIS. The alien must be at least 18 years old and a lawful permanent resident (green card holder) and must be residing in the US for five years immediately preceding the date of application for naturalization. There are separate rules of naturalization of aliens whose one parent is a US citizen or an alien married to a US citizen. Alien relatives of a US citizen can also apply for US citizenship based on the relation to the US citizen. The USCIS will make a decision on the application and inform the alien of its decision. If the application is denied, the alien can file an appeal and request that the application be decided by another officer. If the second officer too denies the application, the alien can seek a review of the decision in the US District Court. http://www.legalservices.califindit.com
Raul Jimenez has worked as a state prosecutor for the last 5 years. He is a specialist in Civil Law and has taught various college level courses. Currently Raul is working to develop the Legal Services section of CaliFindIt.com, California's premier source of information. If you are looking for any type of legal service within the Greater Los Angeles area, be sure to check out http://www.legalservices.califindit.com.
How Can We Come Up With Good Immigration Law Policy While Living in Denial of the Details?
Our immigration laws are based on the data we have from our census. You see, our nation knows which industries need people, and how many people we have to support. We also know of our economic base and taxation, and we have budgets for our various levels of government to provide all the services to all the people. But what happens when we no longer know how many people are in our nation and we underestimate that number? How can we come up with a good immigration law policy, when we do not even know what the actual population is in the United States? For years, our politicians and government has been using the figure of 12 million people when estimating how many illegal aliens are in our nation. Actually it's been about 15 years now they've been using that number. Obviously, many of those illegal aliens have come into our nation and had anchor babies adding to the number of citizens, and there has been a constant increase in the number of illegal aliens coming to live in the United States permanently, but living under the radar. Until we come to the realization, and the truth, stop living in the denial of the details of our current population, and all its needs we don't dare make policies for healthcare, education, transportation, or the array of services that the government provides. Because if we have no idea how many people are in here now, we have no way of knowing how much it will cost, or how to properly plan for the future, so everything is covered. Please consider this. Lance Winslow is a retired franchisor - Lance Winslow's Bio. Lance Winslow is formerly the CEO of WashGuys family of franchises for instance one of Lance Winslow's favorite companies on the team; http://www.windowwashguys.com/links.shtml/.
Immigration Information - Canada
Canada is one of the largest countries in the world in terms of area, yet it has a relatively "small" population with just over 33 million people. It is a country that is made up of immigrants, and it continues to be one of the most sought after countries in the world to live in. Canada is also one of the safest countries in the world and provides an abundance of opportunities for immigrants to the country to settle in and to live a great life in. There are many reasons Canada provides these opportunities. Reasons that these opportunities exist include Canada's excellent relations with its North American neighbors, a prosperous economy, as well as its rich natural resources among many more! Canada is also home to many exciting and dynamic cities. Each of these cities have their unique sense of community and culture as well as landscape and geography. This provides for an exciting experience when anyone visits Canada for the sake of travel or for immigration. Some of these cities include Toronto, Montr?, and Ottawa in the eastern part of Canada as well as Saskatoon, Winnipeg, Calgary, Edmonton, and Vancouver in the west. All of these cities have many areas that they specialize in. Toronto, for example is the financial capital of Canada, while Calgary is home to major energy companies. Edmonton is known as one of Canada's premiere research and education centre's and Vancouver is home to a major port that facilitates more than 40 billion dollars worth of trade annually! Additionally, Vancouver and its neighboring city Whistler will be hosting 2010 Winter Olympic Games! To learn more about Canada and its immigration information, click here http://immigrationinformationcanada.com/
Obtaining an Eb5 Investment Visa at a California Regional Center
If you have decided to use the eb5 visa to enter the United States from your home country, your next step is to decide where to open your business. If you are just using the typical path to an investment visa, you can select any area in the country. However, if you do not want to manage your business everyday, a Regional Center in a Targeted Employment area is best for you, in which you have about 50 areas to choose from. Many immigrants select the sunny state of California. Considering that its economy is somewhat extensive and stable, this is not surprising. It seems nearly any business can thrive in the large state, and there are several Regional Centers to choose from. One is the California Military Base, or CMB, which is centered on six military bases that are now closed. The geographic location is in both Southern California and the County of Sacramento. There are many benefits to going with CMB when you obtain your investment visa. This particular location combines the money put in from investors like you with both private funds and government money. The result is the creation of more than ten jobs, and you do not have to be directly involved in the hiring process. Ensuring you fulfill this requirement is paramount in the investment visa procedure, so this should be an important consideration. This location also tries to ensure that you will see a return on investment. There is a four percent cap on business expenses, which means that you will not have to put a lot of money into business operations. This is especially positive if the business does not do particularly well for some reason, as you will not lose much money from day-to-day expenses. Another safeguard in the investment visa process through CMB is the existence of an escrow account in which your investment funds are placed until the petition gets approved. No one else has access to your money, so if you are denied an eb5 visa, you will get your $500,000 back. The CMB location has been approved by the USCIS, which means it has full government support. The two entities work together to ensure that you get approved fast and can open a company with minimal risk or daily involvement. Proving the creation of at least ten full-time jobs is particularly easy at CMB, as this location has consistent contact with the government, which in turn facilitates progress toward an eb5 visa for you. Lastly, the location of CMB is prime. California is known for its great weather and multitude of things to do. You may choose to open your company through CMB, in which case it will be less than just a couple hours from the beach. Furthermore, if your business does particularly well, you might choose to live within walking distance to the beach. The ability to let the Regional Center handle your company's daily operations will certainly offer you time to just enjoy life, which is easy to do in sunny California. For more information visit EB-5 Investor Green Card or visit the http://eb-5investorgreencard.com website for information on obtaining an EB-5 visa.
Tuesday, July 14, 2009
Understanding Technicalities of Dual Citizenship
Dual citizenship refers to the privileges an individual has as citizens of more than one country.? There are only four ways to legally become a citizen of a country.? First, if you were born on their soil; second, if at least one of your parents were citizens of that country; third, if you married a citizen of that country; and fourth, if you obtained citizenship of that country through a process of naturalization. Some countries will have stringent requirements regarding procedure.? The United States' process is notoriously difficult to qualify for, as they require American parents to live in the U.S. for a period of time before their children automatically qualify.? Furthermore, it's becoming more difficult to gain citizenship in the United States by simply marrying an American. ? Other countries have a more lax process.? For example, it's perfectly legal to hold a citizenship in both Canada and the United States.? It largely depends on the laws of each country.? For the most part the country you are applying to doesn't care about the citizenship laws of other countries.? When you're in Canada, nobody cares if you're a United States citizen and what legal rights you would have according to that system of justice.? The reverse applies for being a citizen of the U.S. while living in the U.S. ? Some countries may have restrictions and a very few may require total disassociation from the first country.? This is why it's important to verify with all countries just what the naturalization process involves and if there are any rules regarding dual citizenship.? While you can expect some tax advantages you also have to prepare for additional responsibilities.? You will have to pay taxes for all the income you make from each respective country.? You will also have to follow the law regarding military service and any travel restrictions listed. ? The advantages of dual citizenship include more flexibility as far as employment and homing.? You also have more financial stability than when you depend on just one country entirely for your income and investments.? If you are seriously considering applying for another citizenship then it's a shrewd idea to speak with an attorney that is familiar with immigration laws.? You can also speak to consular officials.? If you don't wish to communicate these offices then you should at least verify your plans with an authoritative source.? Immigration law can be complicated and costly, especially if you are unprepared. 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.
Immigration Law and Business Enforcement Audits Considered
The federal government is cracking down on businesses that hire illegal immigrants and they are auditing employer's I-9s and paperwork to find violations. In fact, they notified nearly 1,000 businesses across the nation that their records will be audited, and also warned the companies of the stiff penalties if they did not fix the problems. The Obama Administration doesn't want immigration officials to "storm businesses" while people are working. Rather they would like to look at all the records. For those business owners with a history of violating these laws they can expect stiff criminal penalties. The government has already went over Social Security Numbers and notified many businesses that they are aware that the Social Security Numbers do not match, and the company needs to clean up their act. One company in Los Angeles that has over 10,000 employees, and was estimated having about 15% of its work force as undocumented, perhaps even illegal aliens working there, which is what's suspected. They now have 30 days to fix the problem or the owners will be put in jail, the company closed, and extremely harsh penalties will be levied. Some employers claim there are typographical errors on the forms, but the government said; "that's no longer good enough, and it's not acceptable." No doubt these are probably excuses, as companies try to hide the fact that they hire illegal immigrants in order to pay lower wages. and skip out on various taxes and fees. Previously a business could simply say they did not know that they were receiving fake documents. But now the government is telling them that these are not legitimate workers, and therefore those excuses no longer holds water. Companies are referred to the e-verify system, and if they fail to use it there is no excuse. Various Hispanic groups are protesting this action, but much of it is driven by unemployment for US citizens, and labor unions, which see the exploitation of illegal immigrants as a way to avoid paying living wages to union workers. Nevertheless, those who do not follow the immigration laws when hiring workers will most likely be thrown in jail the future. Please consider all this. Lance Winslow is a retired franchisor - Lance Winslow's Bio. Lance Winslow is formerly the CEO of WashGuys family of franchises which Lance; http://www.windowwashguys.com/links.shtml.
Overhaul of Australian Temporary-Worker-Visa-Program Makes Permanent Visas More Attractive
The Australian Department of Immigration has introduced a number of changes to the 457 temporary worker visa program so far in 2009, and further changes have been announced which amount to a complete overhaul of the 457 visa system. The 457 visa program allows employers to sponsor workers for a visa lasting up to 4 years. Permanent employer sponsored options are unaffected by the changes, making them more attractive than 457 visas in many ways. The changes have been in response to a number of concerns. Firstly, there is a perception that employers rely too heavily on the 457 program in a time where the unemployment rate in Australia has been rising. Secondly, there have been several examples of employers who have abused the 457 system leading to exploitation of workers. Minimum Salary Level There will be an increase in the Minimum Salary Level from 1 July 2009. The changes will result in an increase in the applicable minimum salary of 4.1% for all workers currently on a 457 visa. The minimum salary levels for workers sponsored after 1 July 2009 will be as follows:
Since February 2009, the Department of Immigration has been requesting evidence of the benefit to Australia of sponsoring the relevant employee at the nomination and visa application stage of the 457 process. Establishing benefit to Australia has always been a requirement for approval as a business sponsor, albeit one which the Department of Immigration has not actively policed.
Employers are now being asked to provide information on any redundancies which have occurred within the business, evidence of efforts made to recruit local workers and specific benefits of sponsoring each worker. This has introduced significant delays in the application process.
Minimum Salary to be Based on Market Rate
In addition to the above increases in the Minimum Salary Level, the Minister for Immigration has announced that from 1 September 2009 the required salary level will be based on a "market rate". At this point, there are not many details on how this will be calculated.
However, it is likely that the market rate requirement will only apply where the remuneration package is under $100,000. The following sources of information are likely to be considered in estimating the market rate:
- Salary paid for equivalent positions in the business;
- Rate set by any Collective Agreements in effect
- Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) Data
English Language Ability for Trade Applicants
English language testing is required for people being sponsored to work in trade occupations (ie ASCO Group 4). For applications lodged on or after 14 April 2009, the English language requirement has been increased from an IELTS average 4.5 to average 5.0.
In addition, chefs and head chefs are now required to provide evidence of English - these occupations are in ASCO Group 3 and were previously exempt from English language testing.
Workers are still exempt from English language testing if:
- They are to be employed in ASCO Groups 1-3 (ie Managers, Professionals and Associate Professionals) apart from Chefs and Head Chefs; or
- Base salary is $77,850 or higher; or
- They hold a passport from the UK, Ireland, USA, Canada or New Zealand; or
- They have completed certain qualifications taught in English medium
A formal skills assessment or "job-ready" test is to be progressively introduced from 1 July 2009. To date, there is little detail on what this would involve but is likely to include a workplace-based assessment.
Regional Sponsorship for Semi-Skilled Workers
Employers were previously able to sponsor semi-skilled workers in ASCO Groups 5-7 to fill positions in regional areas. Such positions had to be endorsed by the local Regional Certifying Body.
However, from 15 May 2009 such workers must be sponsored under a labour agreement. Obtaining a labour agreement involves an individual negotiation process for each employer or employer group, and can take 12 months or more.
Upcoming Changes to 457 Program
The above changes have made obtaining 457 visas more challenging for many employers. However, we can expect further changes in the future, including:
- Introduction of more objective criteria for assessment of the Employer's training record;
- Revision of sponsorship obligations;
- Expanding the requirement for labour agreements to larger 457 visa users;
- Restricting the maximum length of time a person can spend in Australia on a 457 visa to 8 years;
- Making it easier for 457 holders to change employer or move onto permanent visas from within Australia.
The changes have not so far affected the permanent employer sponsored options (ie ENS and RSMS). The permanent options are currently being processed reasonably quickly and may be a better option for employers who are concerned about sponsoring under the 457 program. In particular, the permanent options:
- Do not require employers to show benefit to Australia
- Salary need not be paid at the market rate
- Regional concessions are still available
- English language testing can be waived and is lower for regional positions
- There are no ongoing sponsorship obligations.
About the Author:
Mark Webster is the director and founder of Acacia Immigration and a member of the Migration Institute of Australia's NSW Executive. In this capacity Mark has liaised with the Department of Immigration on key policy issues. He was a major contributor to the MIA's submissions on Skills Assessment and Review of the General Skilled Program.
A recognized expert in the field, Mr. Webster has been quoted in print numerous times, including in Phillipe Legrain's 2007 book, Immigrants: Your Country Needs Them (Princeton University Press).
Mark is a contributing author of the current edition of the Immigration Kit (Federation Press), the definitive text on migration law. He wrote the chapters on General Skilled Migration and Temporary Workers.
Read the original article at: http://www.acacia-au.com/457_overhaul_200907.php
Learn the Documents Necessary to Take Advantage of the Foreign Investor Visa
If you are an immigrant looking to pursue your goal of both opening a business and living in the United States, there is a specific visa for you. The eb5 visa is also known as a foreign investor visa, since you need to show you can add to the U.S. economy to qualify. Before you count on this type of visa getting you into the U.S., learn the evidence you need to take advantage of this opportunity. Even if you already know the basics of the foreign investor visa, you should get to know the specifics before applying. Officials will be impressed if you have all the requirements and proof of meeting them before you send in your application. Though there are plenty of these visas available each year, once they're gone, they're gone. Some years feature more competition than others, and if you want to speed past others applying for the same visa, preparedness for the process will get you noticed. If you know anything about the eb5 visa, you already know the monetary requirements, as well as the rule that you must create ten new jobs for citizens. However, you might be confused on what type of business qualifies. You can create your own new business, or you can take over one that is already established. However, you must restructure the older business so that it qualifies as a new commercial organization, and you need to save at least ten jobs from being lost, had this business failed before you stepped in. In addition, you can buy an existing business even if it is not in economic trouble, and simply expand it, adding ten or more new positions. After having performed these tasks, you will need to prove it. This can be done by showing the Articles of Incorporation for your new or changed company. If you have a partnership agreement, that will also be needed to complete the process. Whether you leased or bought the building that houses your business, you will need to keep those records, and any state licenses you received will also be helpful to keep. Evidence of the necessary funds having been transferred, documentation of where you received your initial capital, and proof of creating ten jobs will also be necessary. If you took over an existing company, you will also need to show organizational records and proof that you increased the net worth of the business since you took over. Clearly, the process of obtaining a foreign investor visa involves a lot of paperwork. This is simply to prove without a doubt that any immigrant who wants to come to the U.S. under the guise of starting a business does what they intend to. Otherwise, this pathway to eventually becoming a citizen could be abused by those with no intention of successfully running their own business. However, do not let the red tape stop you from pursuing a dream of opening your own business in the United States. Contacting an immigration lawyer can help you stay focused and organized on your path to obtaining a foreign investor visa. For more information visit EB-5 Investor Green Card or visit the http://eb-5investorgreencard.com website for information on obtaining an EB-5 visa.
Choose Between the Traditional Eb5 Visa and the Eb5 Regional Center
You might have heard of the eb5 visa, especially if you have an interest in getting into the United States. Considering how sought after a green card for the U.S. is, it is surprising that more immigrants do not take advantage of this program. Imagine not only legally coming into the country within three to six months, but also owning your own business. Most people have trouble getting into America within a few years, let alone finding a job. Being their own boss is more than most people, immigrants or not, would imagine being able to do. However, the eb5 visa offers this choice. The process is fast for a green card, and allows approved applicants to bring their spouses and children under age 21 over, as well. Once you qualify for this visa, there is no need to send remittance to your family back in your home country, nor do you need to spend years taking tests before entering the country. There are even a few options within the eb5 visa route, which you should decide on based on your interests and financial situation. There is the traditional eb5 visa, and then there is the eb5 regional center. Deciding on the best one for you requires taking a look at the requirements for each one. The traditional eb5 visa requires you to invest $1 million into a new business in the U.S. Your new company must also employ at least ten American citizens full-time, so it needs to be a certain size to justify that number of employees. This type of card is known as the million dollar green card. If you do not think you could access $1 million at one time, even with a business loan, there is another option to consider. It is the eb5 regional center route, which allows you to open a new business in a targeted employment area. This pathway requires only a $500,000 investment. A targeted area is one that has very high unemployment rates, about one and a half times higher than the nation's average rate. Targeted areas often have Regional Centers, which are agencies that study and try to improve the economy and job outlook in those areas. There are more than 45 Regional Centers in the United States, with more planned for the future. You might wonder how to make the important decision between a traditional eb5 visa and the eb5 regional center route. Consider the fact that if you want to have an active role in the new business, such as managing it on your own each day, and want to directly hire ten or more new employees, the traditional eb5 visa would suit you. However, if you want a more passive role that does not require you to be at the business everyday, and one that does not require that you be directly involved in the process of hiring ten new employees, you should consider checking out an eb5 regional center. Whichever path leads to you obtaining a green card and living your dream life in the United States will be the best option. For more information visit EB-5 Investor Green Card or visit the http://eb-5investorgreencard.com website for information on obtaining an EB-5 visa.
7 Steps How to Become a Citizen of Caribbean Country
1st Step - Decision to move Which are the principal reasons why to choose Dominican Republic?
During the last couple of years the Dominican Republic became a home of higher quantities of foreign investors or whole families coming here from abroad.
2nd Step - Prepare documents to submit your application
Which documents are necessary to submit your application for Dominican residency and work permit?
- Medical exams (it must be done here in Santo Domingo by Immigration doctors)
- Full copy (all pages) of your passport
- Three sets of your photographs (front and side)
- Notarized, officially translated into Spanish and legalized Birth Certificate
- Dominican citizen who is required by the local authorities as a personal guarantee for your application
- Postal address in Dominican Republic
3rd Step - Immigration process
It is strongly recommended to start the process as soon as you reach the country and settle, because you can start your immigration during the turist visa. The first step is to visit the Immigration Office with all the papers for application, you will pass the medical exams (Blood-test and X-ray). At the moment of the acceptation of your file in the Immigration Office, you will receive four digit registration number (which is the number of your file in the Dominican Immigration system) and based on this number you can start immediately to work or do business in Dominican Republic because you are officially considered as a person who has his application in process.
Tip! Is better to bring with you an Spanish speaking, the staff in Immigration Office is really nice and mostly they can speak English with you, but with Spanish you will really speed things up.
4th Step - Settling in new country
Now you have time to settle in and make yourself comfortable in your new home.
Because Dominican Republic is an island, it have own problems - reliable supply of power or water has not yet been achieved. When you will rent or buy an apartment or a house ask everytime for own alternate sources: Planta (gas generator), Inversor (backup power in batteries - like UPS) and for Tinaco (water tank in top of building). When the power goes down for 2-3 hours, it is good to have at least one backup to run the basic (light, fridge, TV, etc.).
Tip! Find a local person to help you with ads for apratment or house, will achieved better prices.
5th Step - Business company
The time to finish your residency process vary from 3 - 4 months from the moment that you submit your application. You can use this time to open a Dominican local business company with bank account, get needed licences for special type of business, such as import or export of medicaments or other controlled products by the state.
What do you need to open a business company with bank account?
- According to the new Business Law of the Dominican Republic 2 persons as owners of the company (before there had to be seven persons)
- Copy of your passport or new Dominican ID "cedula"
- Postal address in Dominican Republic for your company
6th Step - Naturalization (citizenship)
You are living in a new environment and culture, you have a new life, business company and new experiences. You felt in love with Dominican Republic and you want to become a citizen with full rights and advantages of this country?
You can apply for the Dominican citizenship normally after two years of obtaining the permanent residency in the country but the substantial advantage consists in the fact that you do not need to be physically in the country all the time. There are also some exceptions determined by Dominican authorities, for example in case of foreign investors, when you can apply for the Dominican citizenship practically after one year.
What you will get with citizenship?
- Full citizenship and not only so called "economical" citizenship which is offered in most of Caribbean and Central American countries
- Same rights as native Dominican with only one exception - you can not be elected as president of the country
- Free travel visa for example to Israel, Japan, South Korea, Uruguay, Argentina, Honduras, Peru, Ecuador and others
- Your Dominican ID card "c?la de identidad" will be changed for new one, the same as any native Dominican has
- New Dominican Birth Certificate
- Your Dominican travel passport
7th Step - Last step is your first step to become a citizen of Dominican Republic
It looks like a difficult process for you? But in fact, it is really easy, all you have to do is trust to professionals, which will be happy to assist you with every single step, any advice or help that you will need.
Change your life today, visit us: www.caribe-lawyers.com
Caribbean Legal Services - Dominican Republic
http://www.caribe-lawyers.com
Complete provision of permanent residence and work permit (immigration), emigration, naturalization (citizenship), the business company with bank account, legal advice in the Dominican Republic.
Information on South African Study Permits
With South Africa's diverse and highly recommended range of schooling and tertiary education institutions, it is no surprise to know that many foreigners who immigrate to RSA, either as individuals or families with children, will receive the best education for the person(s) concerned. There are so many different options of education institutions (from pre-schools, primary schools, secondary schools and tertiary schooling facilities) to choose from. South Africa is abundant with students who thrive on knowledge and highly qualified teachers/lecturers to provide the knowledge required to go forward in life. In South Africa, a foreigner who would like to study in one of these institutions would require a study permit (temporary residency). There are two options for this type of permit for the respective foreigner(s): The first option would be for families immigrating to South African with children from the age 6 to 16 (as all children from the age of 6 - 16 are required by law to attend schooling, therefore, requiring a study permit). If a child is young enough to attend cr?e, pre-school, etc, provision may be made by the Department to issue a permit to the child(ren), this is done with their own discretion. These permits are issued to the length of the schooling period, the maximum period length of a study permit is 3 years. What documentation would be required for a study (children accompanying families) permit ? The documentation required for a RSA (children accompanying families) study permit would include an acceptance letter ("provisionally accepted") from the RSA educational institution concerned, South African Registered Medical Insurance and proof from the parents (guardians) of financial support for during their stay in RSA while studying. The second option would be for individual (stand alone) foreigners wishing to continue their studies in South Africa (e.g. university, college, etc). These permits are issued by the Department of Home Affairs to the applicant who has been "provisionally accepted" to a South African Registered Educational Institution. RSA Study permits are issued to the length of the course; this is done with the Department's discretion. What documentation would be required for a study (individual) permit ? The documentation required for a South African (individual) study permit would include an acceptance letter from the South African educational institution concerned, South African Registered Medical Insurance and proof that the applicant can sustain themselves financially during their stay in RSA while studying. Can a foreigner work on a South African on this permit? The student (over the age of 16 years) may work 20 hours per week during their term (semester) or when the workplace is a learning institution on this permit. In order to retain a study permit while in South Africa, the foreigner must attend the courses/school-days. As this permit is a specific permit, if a child/person moves to a different institution or from primary to high school (secondary school), etc - a new study permit would need to be applied for in order to legally attend the new institution. Correspondence courses/distance learning courses do not allow for the issuance of a South African study permit. South Africa thrives on education. All South Africans and foreigners alike, see education as a significant part of our lives in order to better ourselves and our futures. Therefore, obtaining a permit for education is important to a child or a person continuing their studies in South Africa.
The UK Youth Mobility Scheme
The UK is currently making the biggest immigration law changes for the last 45 years. Currently to be an au pair in the UK you will need:
The above will no longer be applicable from December of this year (2008) and will be replaced by TIER 5 of the new points-based system.
That means to qualify to be an au pair in the UK you will need to be:
- An EU citizen
- A national of a participating country; or
- A British overseas citizen; or
- A British overseas territories citizen; or
- A British national (overseas);
Also:
- You will also need to be aged between 18 and 30 years of age and have enough financial resources to support yourself from when you first enter the United Kingdom until you start earning.
- You may not participate in the Youth Mobility Scheme if you have dependent children or have previously spent time in the UK as a working holidaymaker.
- You will be expected to leave the UK when your permission to stay ends.
- You will only be able to come to the UK on the youth mobility scheme once.
We are yet to be informed by the UK border agency which countries will be participating in the youth mobility scheme.
For the latest information please visit:
Youth Mobility Scheme for au pairs.
Soraya is currently doing a BA in Media studies at Cardiff university and is a marketing consultant for Au pair and nanny agency Almondbury.
Student Visa Conditions
With its world-class educational system, Australia attracts students from nearly 200 countries. Student visas are among the most popular type of Australian visas available. Once you have acquired one, it is important to understand that there are certain conditions you must fulfill to be allowed to stay and study in Australia. The most common ones for most student visas are as follows: ? Maintain satisfactory attendance in the course as required by the Australian school, college or university. These conditions are sent out with our letter of approval for your student visa or on your visa label. Overseas students who do not comply with these conditions may get their Australian visa cancelled and may be deported. Non-compliance may also mean that you will no be able to return to Australia for three years after the visa cancellation. The most common types of non-compliance committed by students are working without approval or longer than permitted hours, ceasing studies before the end of the course overstaying and using fraudulent documentation. Since July 1, 2007, the "no change of provider" condition (8206) has also been implemented for most student visas. This means, that Australian student visa holders are not allowed to change their education provider within the first 12 months of the course. Dylan Lautner is a Search Engine Optimisation Specialist, he is also a writer.
? Make satisfactory course progress for each study period and achieve satisfactory academic results.
? Continue to be enrolled in a study course in Australia.
? Notify your Australia school, university or college of your address within seven days of arriving in the country. If there are changes to your address, notification for this must also be sent within seven days. The educational institution needs to be made aware of your address so they can contact you if you do not satisfy the requirements of the course.
? If you plan to move from one Australia school to another, you must also inform your original education provider within seven days of obtaining your new certificate of enrollment.
? You must also maintain your health insurance, particularly the mandatory Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC).
Monday, July 6, 2009
The Pros and Cons of Dual Citizenship
Have you ever considered dual citizenship, the act of becoming a citizen of more than one country?? Isn't this dangerous, sort of like taking on more than one wife?? Not necessarily.? This is perfectly legal in some cases and very illegal in others.? There is no worldwide sanction on this practice because there is no worldwide government.? However, individual countries can prohibit its own citizen from being a resident of more than one country. ? Why?? This is usually due to what can described as disloyalty or a sort of international conflict of interest.? Some countries have no problem with such a scenario.? You can be a dual citizen of both Canada and the United States, so as long as you obey the laws of whatever country you are currently living in.? Countries like the U.K, Australia and France also allow dual citizenship.? However, other countries such as India, China and Germany do not allow this option. ? What are the cons?? Only that you have twice as much responsibility.? You have to respect the laws regarding taxes, military service and travel restrictions for both countries, depending on which you are currently living at.? The pros of dual citizenship are that the status allows residents many financial benefits.? Business travelers don't have to devote much time to getting visas, nor is there any technicalities preventing him or her buying a new property or getting access to a restricted area. ? There is also more freedom in having dual citizenship, since you are not obligated to work or store funds in merely on country.? Many people are considering backup plans in light of the U.S.'s financial crisis.? The final benefit to discuss is that of belonging.? Some individuals have very strong ties to their countries and desire not just to legally work and build in another country, but also to keep deep roots in their own country.? Countries that allow dual citizenship will not require a painful disassociation from their home land. ? If you are interested in dual citizenship then make sure and verify your plans and any technicalities in question with either a lawyer or an international consul.? At the very least, try and verify the information from a reputable online source rather than risk doing something illegal.? Dual citizenship is a unique privilege, one that truly makes you independent.? This option may bring you many advantages in your financial affairs. 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.
About the Government's New Naturalization Test
The government has recently released a new Naturalization Test, which is to provide a more standardized, fair and naturalization process. The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) took some years to revise the test to reflect the fundamental concepts of American democracy and the rights and responsibilities of citizenship. The redesigned test will help to encourage citizenship applicants to learn and identify with the basic values we all share as Americans. The primary aim to redesigning the test was to ensure that all naturalization applicants receive a uniform, consistent testing experience across the nation. The new, redesigned civics test can effectively assess whether applicants have a meaningful understanding of U.S. government and history. The new test now serves as an important instrument to coincide with basic U.S. history and civics curriculum. The parallel flow of curriculum with the new test will provide a sense of continuity to encourage civic learning and patriotism among prospective citizens. The new test also has a revised English reading and writing section as well as a list of 100 new history and government questions. If you are a citizenship applicant or a naturalization applicant under Form N-400, check with your U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services office for additional information. At this point, if you have an immigration attorney it is wise to check in for detailed information. It is important to know the details and how the new tests affect your present curriculum. Learn how this affects you as an applicant by conferring with an immigration lawyer. Berd & Klauss (http://www.berdklauss.com) is a full service immigration law firm. We offer the best immigration attorney New York services available. Please contact us for a professional immigration lawyer New York. Billings Farnsworth is a freelance writer.
Dual Nationality and a Second Passport - Ways to Obtain Them
Obtaining dual nationality and a second passport is one of the wisest moves you can make if you truly value maintaining your international freedom. It is sort of like taking out an insurance policy. Only the asset you are insuring is not your car or home, but something much more precious: YOUR FREEDOM. This is something you can't put a price on, but it is something many men have laid down their lives for. It is worth millions. It may come as a surprise to you to find out that passports are a modern invention. Less than one hundred years ago official passports were never required by most countries. But now they are required by all countries and the issuing of them is used as a means of coercion by some to restrict your right to travel and even control, monitor, and record it. That is why applying for dual nationality and a second passport is a wise decision. If the government of your country is unduly authoritarian and is making your life miserable then you have a freedom document that will allow you to escape and freely move about the world. Moreover, the issuing of your passport can be used by your government as leverage to force you to pay for the unreasonable tax burden created by out of control government spending. They can also force you to report worldwide income and assets if you are their property by reason of the passport you hold. So you can see why it may be prudent to obtain dual nationality and also a second passport to freedom - one with no restrictive strings attached. This will give you the option to renounce your old citizenship to embrace only your new one if things get too out of control in the country of your first nationality. Having a dual nationality and a second passport means that you are legally a citizen of two countries at the same time. A person can acquire this by birth or by marriage. For example a family who is living abroad gives birth to a child in another country. That child could be both a citizen of the country he was born in and also a citizen of the original country of his or her parents. Also if a person goes to another country and marries a foreign citizen then they can become a citizen of their new country while retaining their original citizenship also. But the other way to obtain dual nationality and a second passport is to involve yourself or all of your family in one of the legitimate second citizenship programs available from a very reputable provider who is either a lawyer or a facilitator who is knowledgeable about the laws concerning how to apply for dual citizenship in the particular country you are interested in getting second citizenship from. There are a few programs available that are affordable and there are some others that are more expensive. So it is important that you get connected with someone who can help you find a program that is best for your situation. James Bauman Ph.D. has been involved with the offshore world, banking, and asset protection for about 12 years now. During that time he has gained an education in not only the financial asset protection world, but also has gained expertise in where to find the most affordable real dual citizenship and second passport programs available. Out of the knowledge he has gained over the years, he developed the asset protection business: FREEDOM OFFSHORE SERVICES. You can find out more about how to get a second passport by going here: http://www.freedomoffshore.com/howtogetasecondpassport.html Also, you can learn more about how to obtain dual citizenship by going here: http://www.freedomoffshore.com/dualcitizenship.html We hope to serve you not only in a way that saves you money, but by giving you quality service also. May your experience in the offshore world of dual nationality and second passports be a pleasant one with our help.
Dual Citizenship and an Alternative Passport - Applying For and Securing Your Freedom of Mobility
Applying for dual citizenship is an essential step to freedom for the person or family that values international freedom more than the illusion of temporary comfort. It is for the person or family that refuses to be trapped in a country that has lost the founding freedom and greatness it once had and assures you freedom of mobility in case an event of catastrophic proportions causes a violent change in the present system. You need to be able to flee if this happens with your alternative passport. Applying for and obtaining dual citizenship gives a person or family freedom insurance in a time of social and financial upheavel brought on by terrorism and the stupidity of a spendaholic government whose currency is being trashed on the world markets. Do you realize that you do not own your passport? It is the property of your government and if they decide to keep their citizens trapped inside by means of martial law then you need to have second citizenship and an alternative passport to escape and insure your international freedom. Applying for dual citizenship is also the gateway to obtaining a second foreign passport. This document proves your second nationality and is the ticket to freedom that you need in order to leave a country which is restricting the freedom of its own citizens. Without a second alternative passport you have no way to easily prove your dual nationality to the customs officials and border guards that you may meet during your hasty departure out of a crumbling world. Moreover, if you have a portable business such as an internet business then applying for and obtaining dual citizenship gives you peace of mind knowing that you will be able to maintain your personal sovereignty through the freedom of international living. Through the use of your alternative second passport you will be able to work your internet business on the beaches of the world and not worry about your home country cancelling your first national passport and forcing you back home. Futhermore, if you have assets in your home country that you want to protect then applying for and having dual citizenship will allow you to unrestrictedly open up bank and investment accounts in safe countries of the world where you can hold your gold, stocks, and money safely away from those who will want to take it from you while the financial system crashes. You need to keep your money in safe currencies like the Swiss Franc and in other currencies which maintain the purchasing power of your money. The ATM card you get will allow you to draw out the money wherever you are in the world. James Bauman Ph.D. has been involved with the offshore world, banking, and asset protection for about 12 years now. During that time he has gained an education in the offshore world and has found the best lawyers and facilitators for dual citizenship leading to alternative passports. He has founded the business Freedom Offshore Services. We can introduce you to about six different dual citizenship sources that will NOT COST YOU your life savings. We have several competitors who charge up to ten times what you pay through us and our facilitators or lawyers. We do not sell dual citizenships or alternative passports but provide an introduction to the best and lowest priced ones available. That way you can apply for dual citizenship http://www.freedomoffshore.com/howtoobtaindualcitizenship.html and get an alternative passport with the lawyer or facilitator that handles the country that is right for you. We hope to serve you not only in a way that helps you with a cheap second passport, http://www.freedomoffshore.com/cheapsecondpassport.html but by giving you quality service also. May your experience in the world of offshore banking, asset protection, and dual citizenships always be a pleasant one with our help.
Get to Know the Process to Obtain an EB5 Visa
If you are an immigrant with a desire to get into the United States legally, you probably constantly hear how difficult it is to do so. Even if you meet all the requirements, the process can take years, and if you simply want to leave your country to make money for your family, you likely don't have years to wait. For this reason, finding out about any way to get into the U.S. fairly quickly is important. For immigrants who have always wanted to open their own business, the perfect visa for that situation is called the EB5 visa. This allows foreigners to enter the United States and own their own business, as long as they have a business plan, $1 million to invest in the company, and hire at least ten full-time American employees. The visa exists to both benefit the U.S. economy and immigrants who want to relocate and fulfill their desire of running their own company. If you do not have $1 million to spend, you still have a chance at the EB5 visa. If you start your business in a targeted area, which is one that has high unemployment rates, you need only invest $500,000 to start the company. Finding a loan for this amount and making sure you meet any other requirements is the best way to have a chance at an EB5 visa, but you should learn the entire process so you know what to expect. The first step is to select the targeted area in which you want to start your business. There are about 45 in the country, so you have some options. You will then need to sign a limited partner agreement and put $500,000 into an escrow account. Your immigration attorney will then submit the documents, called an Immigration Petition, and once it is approved, you will have an interview with a U.S. Consulate. To attend this interview, you will need a Conditional Visa, along with a medical exam. If you are approved, you can come to the U.S. within six months. Since you now have an EB5 visa, your immigration attorney can file to remove the conditions on your temporary visa, and you can become a citizen about two months after you enter the country. Clearly, this route is one of the fastest, since if you begin preparing now, you can be in the U.S. in the next six months. Considering most other ways of legally living in the U.S. can take years, the advantages of the EB5 visa are obvious. The best way to start your journey to owning an American business, and eventually U.S. citizenship, is to contact an immigration attorney. Such a lawyer is likely to know the fastest way to ensure you meet the requirements and get you into this country. If owning your own company and building a home in the U.S. is your goal, get started on meeting the EB5 visa requirements today. For more information visit EB-5 Investor Green Card or visit the http://eb-5investorgreencard.com website for information on obtaining an EB-5 visa.
Read the Fine Print When Considering Immigration by Investment
The best way to enter the United States is to prove you can bring something positive to the country. No country, including your own, wants to admit people who will simply sit around and rely on the government for everything. Nations are made up of people, and it is only natural to refuse to admit others who will use up resources without adding to the community. As such, it is often difficult to enter a country. It usually either takes plenty time and testing to make sure you are a good candidate to become a citizen, or plenty of money. There is nothing wrong with immigration by investment, especially when it can benefit both you and your new country, and this is what the EB5 visa is about. Simply put, the EB5 visa allows immigrants to buy their way into a country, since their new business can add to the benefits a country can offer. In most cases, you need to have at least $1 million and a good business plan that involves the full-time involvement of at least ten American citizens. Hence, immigration by investment through the EB5 visa offers new residents the chance to be their own boss, and also creates jobs for ten or more Americans. However, the requirements for the EB5 visa need to met to ensure it is done right. To correctly complete the process, you should understand key terms involved with immigration by investment. A commercial enterprise as defined by the EB5 visa can be a sole proprietorship, corporation, joint venture, limited partnership, general partnership, business trust, or holding company. Basically, you can choose the type and size of your company, as long as it serves a good purpose and has a need for at least ten employees full-time. You can even buy an existing business, as long as you can increase its net worth and number of employees by 40 percent. Additionally, if the business you take over is in danger of closing after having lost 20 percent of its worth in a year, and by doing so you save ten or more jobs, you can qualify for immigration by investment. You might wonder what kind of capital is required for the EB5 visa. You can obtain the money by either getting a business loan or accepting a gift. As long as it was legally obtained, it counts toward the $1 million needed. You should also know that you need to have some part of managing the business, whether you take part in daily operations or are a decision-maker when it comes to the company. If you are not sure if you meet the requirements for immigration by investment via an EB5 visa, you can contact an immigration attorney. It is important that you read the fine print before counting on this type of visa to make America your home and place of business, and a lawyer who specializes in this area can help. For more information visit EB-5 Investor Green Card Program or visit the http://eb-5investorgreencard.com website for information on obtaining an EB-5 visa.
Getting Answers to Questions About Immigration Laws
There are so many questions about immigration and sometimes it can be frustrating trying to find all of the answers alone.?This is why immigration attorneys are a great source for information and can help you in times of uncertainty.?However, before you call an attorney, there are some things that you can do which might make your situation a little easier. First, try doing some research on the internet.?There are many different websites that can give a lot of information about all kinds of immigration questions.?Of course, you might not understand every single thing that you read, but it will give you a lot of information about immigration laws.?Then, just write down a few of the things that you are concerned with and you can bring them up with an attorney.?For example, you might be planning on getting married to a person who isn't a U.S. citizen.?Do a little research first to know what you will need to do in regards to your visas.?It can make a huge difference whether the marriage ceremony was performed in the United States or in your fianc?native country.?There are different steps to take in regards of getting permanent visas to live in the United States. Good luck researching more about immigration and again don't be nervous about calling an immigration attorney.?They are very knowledgeable in this field and can help direct you in the right paths to take.?Doing things right the first time around can make your life so much easier. Berd & Klauss (http://www.berdklauss.com) is a full service immigration law firm. We offer the best immigration attorney New York services available. Please contact us for a professional immigration lawyer New York. Billings Farnsworth is a freelance writer.
Green Card Through Marriage to a US Citizen in New York City
Applying for a green card through a marriage entered into in good faith to a U.S. citizen is one of the quickest ways?a qualifying foreign national may obtain a?U.S. green card (permanent residency).? When a foreign individual and his/her?U.S. citizen spouse reside in the U.S. and?they are applying for a green card, the process is?referred to as?"adjustment of status" (this is different than "change of status").??Adjustment of status essentially means a foreign national is adjusting his/her status from whatever his/her status currently is (H-1B, TN, L-1, F-1, out of status, etc.) to that of a permanent resident.? If?the foreign spouse is not in the U.S., but is?married to a U.S.?citizen then the case would be processed partly through USCIS?in the U.S.?and partly with?a consulate outside?of the U.S.? The?immigration benefit pursued would either?be a marriage visa or?an immigrant visa, not adjustment of status.? ? Unlike many other immigration benefits, you can apply for a green card through marriage to a U.S. citizen (aka adjust status to a U.S. permanent?resident)?even if you have unlawful presence in the U.S. or you have overstayed a visa.?However, there are limited circumstances where you may not eligible to apply for a green card through marriage to a U.S. citizen.? The green card through marriage process entails?numerous forms, legal issues, filings, receipts, government correspondence, and finally an interview.? It is not uncommon in some parts of the U.S. to wait up to a year or more to finally complete the process.? However, in New York City, there has been a recent trend of processing properly prepared and filed cases in a timely manner.? In fact, our recent experience has shown cases being scheduled for interviews in as little as 3.5 months from the date the application has been received by USCIS.?? The following two green card through marriage application examples are taken from two recent cases in New York City.? Please keep in mind that both cases were prepared and filed by an attorney experienced with family based immigration law matters. The applications submitted in these cases were the following:? I-130 Immigrant Petition & I-485 Adjustment of Status, I-765 Work Authorization, and I-131 Advance Parole.? The biometrics appointments for both cases were conducted at 201 Varick Street and the interviews for both cases were conducted at 26 Federal Plaza. Example One
Example Two
- January 26, 2009:? All applications sent via Federal Express for overnight delivery to USCIS, Chicago
- January?27, 2009:? All applications received by USCIS, Chicago
- February 2, 2009:? Receipts issued by USCIS for the following applications:? I-130, I-485, I-765, & I-131
- February 4, 2009:? Notice issued by USCIS providing the place, date, and time for the biometrics appointment
- February 24, 2009:? Biometrics appointment
- March 12, 2009:? USCIS Notice for Interview Request issued providing the place, date, and time for the interview
- March 18, 2009:? Advance Parole approval issued
- March 2322, 2009:? Work authorization issued
- May 19, 2009:? Interview for adjustment of status (stamp placed in passport)
- Receipt of actual green card still pending due to recent upgrades of green card production machine
Please keep in mind that both of these cases were fully prepared and filed by an experienced immigration attorney.? Furthermore, they both were relatively "normal" cases.? Regardless of your situation, competent legal counsel is important through all parts of the application process and therefore it is strongly advised that you work with an attorney experienced in these matters before moving forward.?A green card is a highly sought after U.S. immigration benefit and something that should be pursued with great care.
Douglas M. Lightman, Esq. is the principal and founding attorney of Lightman Law Firm LLC, a boutique law firm located in New York City with a focus on U.S. immigration law. The firm focuses on both family immigration and business immigration. Some of the more common services provided by the firm on the family immigration end deal with green card through marriage applications, K-1 fiance visas, K-3 marriage visas, immigrant relative petitions, and other family related matters. On the business end, the firm provides services in connection with employment based green card applications, work visas such as the H1B visa, the L-1 visa for intracompany transferees, the O-1 visa for artists and entertainers, the TN visas for Canadians and Mexicans, and visas for investors and traders. The firm also handles various matters relating to citizenship and naturalization.
Please contact us at the following for more information about Lightman Law Firm and immigration law.
K-1 Visa - How to Apply
If you are an American citizen wanting to bring your foreign fianc?to the United States in order to marry, then it is recommended to obtain a K1 fianc?visa status. The K1 visa is also referred to as a fiancee visa, or the marriage visa. Only an American citizen can apply for a fianc?visa. In order for your request to be approved, you will need to follow these very specific steps: First, your K-1 visa petition must be filed with the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), and you must accompany your petition with these documents:?
After your K-1 visa petition is approved by the USCIS, it will be forwarded to the United States Consulate in the country where your fianc?lives. The United States Consulate will then contact your fianc?to schedule an interview.
After your fianc?attends the interview at the?consulate, the K-1 visa will be issued within a few days. If managed correctly, the whole process should only take several weeks. Once your fianc?arrives in the United States, you must marry within a period of 90 days.
For more explicit instructions and little known strategies to ensure your success in getting a K-1 Visa for your fiancee, visit this site.
Laura Ellerbe is a professional legal advisor, lecturer and freelance writer. She enjoys helping others navigate through the complex legal system in order to achieve their goals. Visit http://www.K1VisaNow.com to learn more strategies to obtain a K1 Visa for your fiancee.
Call to Announce Amnesty For All Illegal Immigrants in UK
Public majority in Britain are of the opinion that illegal immigrants living in the UK, should be allowed to work so that they could contribute positively to the UK economy. In a program entitled, "The Big Question", telecast by BBC recently, the attendees were of the opinion that it would cost the government an arm and a leg to send all the illegal settlers back home. Claims about the number of illegal immigrants living in UK, vary between 600,000 to three million. There is no way in which we can judge the authenticity of the illegal immigrants in UK. A technocrat said, "it would take the Home Office 35 years to send all the illegal immigrants back home - if their number remains the same." A representative from the London Mayor's Office said that illegal immigrants should not be given a Carte blanche. Instead a restricted permission to work in UK for five years would be a step in the right direction. Those granted amnesty during these five years should be monitored closely and if they are found contributing positively to the society without committing any crime or creating a law and order situation, only then such illegal immigrants status should be further regularised. It may be worthwhile to add that a study commissioned by the London Mayor Boris Johnson had recently suggested that an immigration amnesty would lead to a GBP3 billion boost to the economy. The London School of Economics study also concludes that an amnesty would not lead to large scale illegal immigration, as border controls would prevent this happening. The report's findings were welcomed by Boris Johnson. The main points in that report are as follows: Estimates that there are 618,000 illegal migrants in the UK. An increase in individual earnings of 25%. The LSE research came as a Commons public accounts committee report showed it would be at least another four years before the UK Border Agency reached its "optimum capacity" to remove failed ?asylum seekers. Only 12,000 were removed last year. The MPs' report said Home Office staff on asylum cases are still using fax machines, paper files and handwritten interview notes and will not have a better IT system until 2013. It will also take four years to expand the availability of detention spaces to the 4,000 needed to step up the pace of removals. The Home Office told the MPs that it was on track to finish working through the backlog of 400,000 to 450,000 cases, some of which date back years. The backlog will finally be cleared by 2011. Edward Leigh, chairman of the public accounts committee, said: "The process of coming to decisions on whether to grant asylum is still too slow." For more details visit http://www.ukvisastoday.com/
More than two-thirds 442,000 are in London.
If illegal immigrants were given legal status in the then GBP 846 million a year would be raised in taxes.
The public sector costs of granting indefinite leave to remain would be about GBP410 million a year.
Total costs could rise to GBP1 billion a year in the long term if the immigrants receive welfare benefits and public sector housing.
The proposed amnesty would be for those who had been in the for at least five years. It is estimated that two thirds of illegal immigrants would be eligible. The report estimates that regularizing the status of illegal settlers would result in:
An increase in the rate of employment of 6%.
An additional GBP3 billion a year in national gross domestic product.
Amnesties and regularisation programmes have been common in a number of Countries, including in France. The amnesty idea was first mentioned by Boris Johnson more than a year ago in April 2008. This sparked widespread controversy. The Immigration Minister at the time Phil Woolas said that it would lead to more people trafficking.