Author: Tristan Mirasol

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The Changing Landscape of U.S. Citizenship Tests in 2024

The Changing Landscape of US Citizenship Tests in 2024
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When President Biden assumed office, he signed an Executive Order titled “Restoring Faith in Our Legal Immigration System.”  One of the primary goals of this order was to enhance integration and inclusion by removing unnecessary barriers to U.S. citizenship. If you recall, the citizenship test underwent a complex transformation during the prior Trump administration, which prompted the Biden administration to reinstate the 2008 version of the test. Now, the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is gearing up for a significant makeover of the citizenship test, set to launch in 2024.

But has the Biden administration truly addressed the citizenship barrier with the redesigned test? The answer may surprise you. As it stands, the U.S. citizenship test is in the process of being overhauled, and the proposed changes are making it more challenging for applicants to pass.

The Current Citizenship Test: A Refresher

Introduced in 2008, the current evaluation of English and civics knowledge for naturalization follows a multi-year collaboration with stakeholders and education experts. It includes answering basic questions during the naturalization interview, an oral civics test where an applicant must correctly answer 6 out of 10 questions (selected from a pool of 100), and reading and writing dictated sentences. The material for the test is readily available for study, and applicants can prepare for it in advance.

Major Changes Proposed: The Redesigned Test

The USCIS is considering three significant changes to the citizenship test:

1. Multiple Choice Civics Exam

The redesign suggests replacing the current oral civics questions with a multiple-choice format. To illustrate the difficulty, let’s take a look at a sample question: Current Question: Name one war fought by the United States in the 1900s. (Answer: “Gulf War”)

Redesigned Multiple-choice Version:

  • A. Civil War
  • B. Mexican-American War
  • C. Korean War
  • D. Spanish-American War

The twist? The applicant must know all five wars in the 1900s that could be acceptable answers and identify that the distractors provided are incorrect, as they are answer options for a different civics question about wars in the 1800s.

Bill Bliss, a civic educator from Massachusetts, highlights that the new test focuses more on test-taking skills than actual civics knowledge. It introduces plausible distractors to complicate the process, making it more challenging to prepare for and likely measuring test-taking skill as much as civics knowledge.

2. Picture-Based English Test

Instead of evaluating English proficiency during the naturalization interview with basic questions, the USCIS is proposing a new English exam where applicants describe a scene from a picture displayed on a screen. This approach leaves room for varied interpretations and could be subject to the adjudicator’s discretion, potentially leading to denial or unnecessary retesting.

3. Separate Examinations

Additionally, the USCIS is suggesting that the test be administered separately from the naturalization interview. This change introduces an extra step and additional processing time for those seeking naturalization.

When Will This Redesigned Test Be Implemented?

In December 2022, the USCIS published a rule in the Federal Register announcing trial tests for the new civics and reading exams. These tests are currently being conducted with the assistance of volunteer community-based organizations working with immigrant English language learners and green card holders preparing for naturalization. The USCIS will make a decision about implementing the new testing structure in 2024 based on the results and feedback from these pilot tests.

While the redesigned test is not yet in effect, it’s prudent to consider applying for naturalization sooner if you’re already eligible. Waiting might mean facing a more challenging citizenship examination down the road.

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Celebrating Filipino American History Month: Embracing Our Heritage & Culture

Celebrating Filipino American History Month: Embracing Our Heritage & Culture
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In 2009, U.S. Congress passed House Resolution 780 recognizing the celebration of Filipino American History Month in October commemorating the first recorded presence of Filipinos in the United States at Morro Bay, California on October 18, 1587. On this day, Luzones Indios, native Filipino sailors conscripted into the Spanish navy for labor during the Manila-Acapulco galleon trade, came ashore from the Spanish galleon called Nuestra Senora De Esperanza.

Celebrating Filipino American History Month (FAHM) is about more than just marking a date on the calendar; it’s a vibrant tapestry of history, pursuits, accomplishments, and an enduring legacy. This annual event serves as a bridge connecting Filipinos in the United States to their counterparts in the Philippines. It is an occasion to proudly display our shared culture and heritage, reinforcing the ties that bind us across the seas.

While 1587 was the birth of Filipino presence in the United States, waves of Filipino immigration have swept across the nation since 1898. Early immigrants toiled as agricultural workers, laying the foundations for their compatriots who followed. Subsequent waves saw Filipinos diversifying into various sectors such as education, healthcare, hospitality, and manufacturing. Today, the Filipino community has excelled in fields ranging from business and sports to politics, entertainment, entrepreneurship, performing arts, and even the military.

With a staggering 4.4 million Filipinos in the United States, states like California, Hawaii, Texas, and others host significant populations. In fact, Filipinos are now the third largest ethnic Asian group in the United States.

On October 1, 2023, President Biden extended a heartfelt greeting to Filipino Americans, acknowledging their indelible contributions to the fabric of American society:

“As educators, entertainers, entrepreneurs, healthcare workers, lawyers, service members, chefs, and much more, Filipinos and Filipino Americans have been instrumental in shaping the American dream. They’ve helped build our great nation while cherishing their roots, weaving the vibrant heritage and rich culture of the Philippines into the tapestry of our nation. Filipinos and Filipino Americans exemplify the very best of our country, prioritizing service over self and strengthening the bonds that unite us as Americans.”

So, how can you partake in the celebration of Filipino American History Month?

  • Join Organized Celebrations: Many cities and states host sponsored events organized by Filipino American community groups and businesses. For instance, in San Francisco, the Filipino American Arts Exposition (FAAE) is joining hands with San Francisco Mayor London Breed and the City and County of San Francisco for a spectacular FAHM celebration on October 26, from 5:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the San Francisco City Hall Rotunda. Similar events are sprinkled throughout various states and cities with thriving Filipino populations.
  • Discover Filipino American Artists: Filipino American artists have significantly impacted American culture in art, music, literature, and more. Embrace FAHM by experiencing their creative genius. Watch a Filipino Broadway show like “Here Lies Love” or find a Filipino movie available for streaming online. Consider visiting a museum to admire the works of Filipino artists. In San Francisco, the De Young Museum is currently showcasing 883 works by talented Bay Area artists, including the exceptional creations of Filipino artists Abel Manalo and Michelle Bond.
  • Visit Your First-Generation Family Member: If grand celebrations or museum outings aren’t your cup of tea, take a moment to appreciate and reconnect with your roots. Visit, call, or send a heartfelt text to your first-generation family member who was responsible for petitioning your family’s journey to the United States. It could be your parents, grandparents, or siblings who made it possible for you to thrive as a second or third-generation immigrant. A simple gesture of gratitude can go a long way in recognizing their invaluable contribution to your success.

In essence, Filipino American History Month is a celebration of resilience, cultural richness, and the enduring spirit of a community that has thrived in the United States for centuries. It’s an invitation to explore, appreciate, and pay homage to the Filipino heritage that enriches  America as a nation of immigrants. Join in the festivities, support the arts, and reconnect with your roots to make this month-long celebration truly unforgettable.

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Public charge rule: One step closer to being overturned

Public charge rule: One step closer to being overturned
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The Senate passed a resolution on May 17, 2023, to overturn the Biden administration public charge rule which made it more difficult for immigrants to obtain legal status if they used certain public benefits.

The resolution, which was sponsored by Senator Roger Marshall (R-KS), passed by a vote of 50-47. 

Two Democrats, Joe Manchin of West Virginia and Jon Tester of Montana, joined all 50 Republicans in voting for the resolution.

The resolution now moves to the House of Representatives, where it is expected to pass. 

If it is passed by the House and signed into law by President Biden, the public charge rule will be overturned.

Why this matters for aspiring permanent residents

The overturning of the public charge rule would be a major victory for aspiring permanent residents. 

The rule made it more difficult for immigrants to obtain legal status if they used certain public benefits, such as food stamps, Medicaid, and housing assistance. This disproportionately impacted low-income immigrants, who are more likely to use these benefits.

The overturning of the public charge rule would make it easier for low-income immigrants to obtain legal status. This would allow them to come out of the shadows and contribute more fully to the US economy and society.

What can you do to help?

If you are an aspiring permanent resident, there are a few things you can do to help ensure that the public charge rule is overturned.

  • Contact your elected representatives and urge them to support the resolution to overturn the public charge rule.
  • Sign petitions and join rallies in support of overturning the public charge rule.
  • Educate yourself and others about the public charge rule and its impact on immigrants.

If you need guidance on seeking permanent residence and working around this rule until it is overturned, reach out to your trusted immigration lawyer.

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USCIS’ diversity policy: Good news for aspiring immigrants

USCIS’ diversity policy - Good news for aspiring immigrants
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The USCIS has released in April its Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility (DEIA) Strategic Plan, a welcome development for anyone who works with and within the department.

Here are the details that you need to know about the USCIS’ promises:

  • Leadership Engagement: Leaders within the USCIS will have to model DEIA consistently
  • Diversity: USCIS plans to attract and build a representative workforce at all levels of the organization by recruiting from a diverse pool of candidates and creating a welcoming and inclusive workplace
  • Equity: USCIS aims to foster an equitable workplace to ensure employees have the resources they need to succeed by eliminating discrimination and harassment, providing fair pay and benefits, and creating a culture of respect and inclusion
  • Inclusion: USCIS sees nurturing a culture that prioritizes inclusivity and belonging by valuing the unique perspectives of all employees and promoting a sense of belonging and community
  • Accessibility: USCIS sets the goal of modernizing infrastructures to build and sustain an accessible environment—physically, mentally, and technologically.

Why is DEIA good news for aspiring immigrants?

DEIA is good news for aspiring immigrants because it can help to create a more welcoming and supportive environment for them. 

A more diverse and inclusive workplace can be a more welcoming place for immigrants, as they will be able to see themselves represented in the workforce. 

A more equitable workplace can also be a more welcoming place for immigrants, as they will be treated fairly and justly, regardless of their background.

Knowing this policy goes a long way. 

If you know anyone who faced discrimination in their application process, make sure to refer to the USCIS’ own policies. 

You can also reach out to your trusted immigration lawyer for advice.

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US Embassy hikes visa fees

US Embassy hikes visa fees
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Heads up! The United States embassy in the Philippines has announced that it will be increasing visa application fees starting June 17, 2023. The following are the new fees for various types of visas:

  • B1/B2 tourist visa: $185 (up from $160)
  • F1 student visa: $325 (up from $295)
  • J1 exchange visitor visa: $325 (up from $295)
  • H1B work visa: $535 (up from $455)
  • L1 intracompany transferee visa: $535 (up from $455)

The embassy says that the increase in fees is necessary to cover the rising costs of processing visa applications. The embassy also says that the new fees are still lower than the fees charged by other countries for similar visas.

What does this mean for visa applicants?

The increase in visa application fees will mean that visa applicants will have to pay more to apply for a visa. This could make it more difficult for some people to afford to apply for a visa.

What can visa applicants do to prepare for the increase in fees?

Visa applicants can prepare for the increase in fees by:

  • Starting the visa application process early: This will give you more time to save up for the application fee.
  • Consider applying for a waiver of the visa application fee: There are a number of waivers that may be available to you, depending on your circumstances.
  • Contact the US embassy or consulate in your area for more information: The embassy or consulate can provide you with more information about the increase in fees and how to apply for a waiver.

What can you do to help?

If you are concerned about the increase in visa application fees, you can contact your elected representatives and urge them to take action to lower the fees. You can also contact the US embassy or consulate in your area and express your concerns.

Unfortunately, that will take longer. If you or anyone you know have any questions about seeking a waiver for the fees, reach out to a trusted immigration lawyer.

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The US nursing shortage and why it’s an opportunity

The US nursing shortage and why it’s an opportunity
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The United States is in an undesirable place: it is facing a severe nursing shortage. 

There are currently over 1 million vacant nursing positions in the country, expected to worsen in the coming years, as the population ages and the demand for healthcare services increases.

A growing population, burnout among nurses, and the lack of diversity are contributing the shortage. But however big this crisis for the country may be, the bigger it is an opportunity for immigrants, as argued in this piece.

How Immigration Can Help

There are many reasons why immigration can help to address the nursing shortage in the United States. 

  1. Immigrants are more likely to be nurses than native-born Americans. In fact, immigrants make up about 16% of the nursing workforce, even though they make up only 13% of the US population.
  2. Immigrant nurses bring a number of benefits to the US healthcare system. They are more likely to work in underserved areas, and they are more likely to be bilingual. They also bring new perspectives and ideas to the healthcare field.

How can aspiring permanent residents take advantage of this?

If you are an aspiring permanent resident and you are interested in a career in nursing, there are a number of things you can do to increase your chances of success.

  • Get certified: Make sure you are certified as a nurse in your home country. This will make it easier to get a nursing job in the United States.
  • Learn English: English is the language of healthcare in the United States. Make sure you are fluent in English before you apply for a nursing job.
  • Network: Get to know people in the nursing field. This will help you find job opportunities and learn more about the nursing profession.
  • Be patient: It may take some time to find a nursing job in the United States. Be patient and persistent, and you will eventually find a job that is a good fit for you.

The nursing shortage is a serious problem in the United States. 

However, immigration can help to address this problem. 

If you need help and guidance on becoming a permanent resident, reach out to a trusted immigration lawyer.

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What you need to know about the proposed US Citizenship Act of 2023

What you need to know about the proposed US Citizenship Act of 2023
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A new bipartisan immigration bill was introduced in the US House of Representatives on May 23, 2023. 

The bill, which is called the US Citizenship Act of 2023, would create a pathway to citizenship for undocumented immigrants who meet certain requirements. The bill would also provide funding for border security and immigration enforcement.

Why it matters for migrants

The bill has been praised by immigration advocates, who say it would provide a much-needed pathway to citizenship for undocumented immigrants. 

However, the bill has also been criticized by some immigration enforcement advocates, who say it would weaken border security.

Here are some of the key provisions of the bill:

  • Pathway to citizenship: The bill would create a pathway to citizenship for undocumented immigrants who meet certain requirements, including paying taxes, passing a criminal background check, and learning English.
  • Funding for border security: The bill would provide funding for border security, including physical barriers, technology, and personnel.
  • Immigration enforcement: The bill would reform immigration enforcement, including reducing the number of people who are detained and deported.

It is unclear whether the bill will pass the US Senate. However, the fact that it was introduced by a bipartisan group of lawmakers is a sign that there is some support for immigration reform in Congress.

What aspiring migrants can do

The bill is a significant step forward in the fight for immigration reform. It is important to stay engaged and let your elected representatives know that you support this bill.

Here are some things you can do to support the bill:

  • Sign a petition in support of the bill.
  • Call or email your elected representatives and urge them to support the bill.
  • Attend a rally or event in support of the bill.
  • Donate to an organization that is working to pass the bill.

The bill might take a long time to get passed, and might be blocked from becoming a law. 

Until then, if you or someone you know need to find a pathway to citizenship now, reach out to a trusted immigration lawyer.

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Biden Administration keeps the fight on for DACA

Biden Admin Keeps Fight on for DACA
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In a recent development, the Biden administration has asked a federal judge in Texas to limit the scope of any ruling that could terminate the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) immigration policy. 

The administration argues that any ruling should only apply to Texas, since only that state has shown that it is harmed financially by DACA. 

The administration also asks the judge to pause any order to terminate DACA while the government appeals any ruling against the program.

The outcome of this case is uncertain, but it could have a major impact on the lives of nearly 600,000 Dreamers. 

We’re all waiting for this because a ruling against DACA would be a major setback for Dreamers and their families. 

It would force Dreamers to live in fear of deportation and would make it much more difficult for them to pursue their dreams.

If you are a Dreamer or know a Dreamer, please stay informed about this case and let your elected officials know that you support DACA. The future of Dreamers hangs in the balance.

Here are some additional details about the case:

  • The case is being brought by a coalition of Republican-led states led by Texas.
  • The coalition argues that DACA is unlawful because it was created by executive action and not by Congress.
  • The Biden administration argues that DACA is lawful and that it is in the best interests of the United States to continue the program.
  • The judge has not yet issued a ruling in the case as of May 2023

What you can do:

  • Stay informed about the case.
  • Contact your elected officials and let them know that you support DACA.
  • Donate to organizations that are working to protect Dreamers.
  • Volunteer your time to help Dreamers.

Dreamers are our neighbors, our friends, and our family members. They are an important part of our communities. 

If you or anyone you know need further help, contact a trusted immigration lawyer today.

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COVID -19 Vaccination Requirements for Federal Employees and International Travelers to End on May 11, 2023

COVID -19 Vaccination Requirements for Federal Employees and International Travelers Ends May 11, 2023
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The Biden-Harris Administration announced recently that vaccination requirements are no longer necessary for international travelers. 

In a statement released by the White House on May 2, 2023, the following important news was provided:

“Today, we are announcing that the Administration will end the COVID-19 vaccine requirements for Federal employees, Federal contractors and international air travelers at the end of the day on May 11, the same day that the COVID-19 public health emergency ends.  Additionally, Health and Human Services (HHS) and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced today that they will start the process to end their vaccinations requirements for Head Start educators, CMS- certified healthcare facilities and certain noncitizens at the land border.  In the coming days, further details related to ending these requirements will be provided.”

 According to the White House, the Administration acknowledged that COVID-19 vaccine requirements bolstered vaccination across the nation and the broader vaccination campaign has saved millions of lives. “ While vaccination remains one of the most important tools in advancing the health and safety of employees and promoting the efficiency of workplaces, we are now in a different phase of our response when these measures are no longer necessary.”

This new development will take place at the end of the day on May 11, 2023.