August 26, 2025 • 32 mins
In this timely episode, we break down a major shift in U.S. immigration policy: the August 15 USCIS memorandum that restores a rigorous, holistic, and comprehensive standard for evaluating “good moral character” in naturalization applicants. What does this mean for immigrants on the path to U.S. citizenship—and how might it impact future applications? Joining us is immigration law expert Attorney Flomy J. Diza, partner at #ReevesImmigrationLawGroup, to unpack the legal nuances and practical implications of this new policy.
Disclaimer: The views, information, and opinions expressed in this broadcast are intended for general informational purposes only. They do not constitute professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Listeners are encouraged to consult qualified professionals regarding any specific concerns or decisions. Neither the hosts nor guests are liable for any actions taken based on the content of this program.
Disclaimer: The views, information, and opinions expressed in this broadcast are intended for general informational purposes only. They do not constitute professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Listeners are encouraged to consult qualified professionals regarding any specific concerns or decisions. Neither the hosts nor guests are liable for any actions taken based on the content of this program.
Mark as Played
Transcript
Episode Transcript
Available transcripts are automatically generated. Complete accuracy is not guaranteed.
Speaker 1 (00:02):
Reef's Immigration Law Group now brings you immigration law on
your side.
Speaker 2 (00:07):
All right, Hawaii, and welcome to another immigration law on
your side right here at pH l V Radio at
it puts at in Amaten from Reeve's Immigration Law Group
Macababay and young and redefining good moral character pattern. You
know when we were in school pating maritime it's a
(00:31):
good moral character. Otherwise mapatagog is atting Guidance Council or
what it means for your naturalization? Yeah, don't focused. Not
in a young immigration law on your side. We'll be
discussing an important new USCIS policy Memorandum Naslama in August
fifteenth restoring a rigorous, holistic and comprehensive good moral character
(00:56):
evaluation standard for naturalization applicants. What does this mean for
immigrants seeking US citizenship? I think immigration expert from Reef's
Immigration Law Group attorney flow me have your attorneyhan.
Speaker 3 (01:17):
At very timely and.
Speaker 4 (01:22):
Labasa inmibition policy as you mentioned was fifteen langant it's
a good moral character at the Pilipinas pentire subject additional
subject with g m r C good moral character and
right Kanda.
Speaker 3 (01:37):
Yeah policy and U s squayo heart.
Speaker 4 (01:41):
Bring us back to the original spirit elate moral character
and s G m C for citizenship or naturalization, so
instead not land applicant if they were out of trouble, U,
s C I S are there as you mentioned, Krina
(02:01):
instructed to see.
Speaker 3 (02:02):
The holistic approach.
Speaker 4 (02:05):
No, you know, as a United States in terms of
Canelian community contributions, family responsibilities, malaak, we have education, employment
and overall conduct in determining in good moral character in
(02:27):
your and Memahan also ensures applicante in the UH criminal
acts at Kaliman Mero criminal activities in the past, rehabilitate
now the rehabilitation at para support and good moral character.
Speaker 2 (02:50):
Attorney, remind us again before we go further, because this
is going to be a very very spirited conversation. I'm sure,
Madame questions Attorney noting later on, but remind us first,
attorney and requirements general requirements you know before one can
apply for naturalization.
Speaker 4 (03:12):
That's really a good start in Johanna, nothing because we
keep on advising our clients to fail their naturalization already,
because once they become a citizen, they will be treated
as such. And of course on top of being a
citizen UH corresponding obligations and rights, right to vote, the
(03:33):
right to jury, and right to a federal positions or
job the federal in offered a federal government and also
federmcdual citizen.
Speaker 3 (03:43):
We always advise our Kambabayan.
Speaker 4 (03:47):
Natural citizens at the same time, it could maintain Filipino citizenship.
Now it's AMAR requirements of costcal and below over it.
In Pokyo, the have Partama pak file naturalization Una paraloa.
Speaker 3 (04:02):
I drink holder in Nagaio for either three or five years.
Speaker 4 (04:05):
Three years spoke I married to a citizen and have
been married for three years that US citizen and holder
for three years the same time.
Speaker 3 (04:16):
And drink through marriage.
Speaker 4 (04:18):
You can apply five years thereafter, but in fact you
can apply three months in advance with para UH maybe
an opportunity that an immigration for the interview right so
union union paralawa requirements and then centering physical presence important
among a Kababay and nothing now mamma businesses.
Speaker 3 (04:40):
Or properties or they are into.
Speaker 4 (04:43):
Something Pilipinas nagara and a laga you know or businesses
so kelan and physical presence at least half of the time. NASA,
United States Silla and then of course residents Trito right.
And then let's say, uh, Las Vegas, you just arrived,
you just rather transferred residents from the bay area to
(05:07):
the last to Las Vegas.
Speaker 3 (05:08):
Then you have to wait for at least three months. Uh.
Speaker 4 (05:10):
And then klan the provision POCON English Language examination which
is very basic, reading and writing, very elementary and one sentence.
That's why samakababa nothing in the Panag profile. There's also
a discussion right under administration that they will make the
examination more difficult, right, very elementary about one sentence reading,
(05:34):
one sentence writing, Nila. There's discussion muss muss my maga
essay or main manga discussion about the civic tests in
the LAM very basic, so of course asaid from the
English efficiency and.
Speaker 3 (05:48):
Civic test where you have to.
Speaker 4 (05:53):
Pass six out of the tenth questions, so no one
hundred questions, but they only ask ten questions and you
need to pass at least six six. And then attachment
to the Constitution uh that you're willing to defend and
support the constitution sola and in fact in a conditional
(06:13):
up and on a you a good moral character in
gm GMC, which is la man within that time frame
and applied right, let's say three years or five years
having no good moral character? Right, although uh, not only
within that time frame. Apply know us c I S
(06:34):
also has the discuestion to look.
Speaker 3 (06:37):
Beyond you three or five years. Uh, you know, good
moral character, so you employ your require general requirements.
Speaker 2 (06:46):
So turning focusing on the good moral character. Uh, is
there some sort of a checklist attorney partum Uh a
kaba Bayans who are already at this process major checklist
though in fact, well we were having a conversation here
at the studio memorized starts, spangled banner checks not gonna
(07:09):
yeah for for citizenship attorney practical checklist and to ensure
my good moral characters.
Speaker 3 (07:20):
Yeah, you don't.
Speaker 4 (07:21):
Before Nila and inclement on policy, queer, Youohan actually a
good moral character basically in the absence not any any
negative or negative records a guy and criminal convictions or misrepresentation.
Speaker 3 (07:36):
Right, So as long as you're.
Speaker 4 (07:38):
Doing your you're doing what you're doing, Uh, those you
can actually become a US citizen already now with the
new memo right, in the excesses of discretion, immigration also
will consider you atugnative positive attributes I know you can
not consider relate to you would be sustained community in
(08:00):
involvement of voluntary service. So if you look at the
naturalization form when you fill it out, are you a
member of any group, foundation, association, organization, whether for profit
or not. So pedemusa, I'm a member of a Catholic
church deva, So pedimon uh.
Speaker 3 (08:20):
That's already community involvement.
Speaker 4 (08:21):
If you you basically contribute financial visa in Bahan, or
do volunteer work in Bahan, or if you are a
you know, if you have kids growing up, you volunteer
my ptas viva or any any communities that in that
that or any organizations rather that involves community service. So
(08:43):
it's a yeah, palaa is caring for family members and
showing responsibility at home. Right, So, so elderly to US
citizen mother caretaker and have a care taker care giver.
I bring them to the house spital for the check apps,
I picked their medications, I bring them to the part
(09:07):
you know, come my available time to bring them to
the movie, et cetera. Right, So, and then plow would
be educational achievements and work history so important to you
and Cigaret and creyayoha maramid some applicant then let's say
do not in deed and you know elderly nezilla, let's
say fifty sixty, some of them do not want to
(09:29):
work anymore, right, but some other other uh and and
some of them too would be just working under the table,
which I really discouraged that because ab become a social
security to the mankyo. You're illegal in the US membering
green card, so you have to decline taxes, immigation, yeah right,
educational achievement and work history and then long residence in
(09:52):
the US well with the stable law of life, so
you must matagal And of course I'm filing taxes and
meeting financial obligation. Although Johan uh your policy and immigration,
there's also a question where it as you or any
federal or local taxes that are over Jews. And and
(10:14):
if you say yes, US will actually requests a proof
that either you are making some arrangement with I su
uh taxes that are considered over you, so before they
can actually approve your case, but then request immigration that
(10:35):
you are actually paying and substantially paying your taxes.
Speaker 3 (10:43):
Over you and approving naturalization application.
Speaker 2 (10:48):
Right right, and the attorney during the time that, Uh,
those who are seeking for US aship are here in
the United States. Uh, they're in their green card and
life happens, you know. But I'm I'm airing Maganapaka questions
(11:08):
the attorney Lavindito Attorney, I had a d u I
five years ago, but since then, I've finished school, I've
been working steadily and volunteer at my church. Will this
(11:29):
affect my citizenship application?
Speaker 3 (11:32):
That's really a good question for Johan.
Speaker 4 (11:36):
Before this policy right, once you have the UI is
considered as a negative pat or. In fact, we don't
recommend clients to follow one hind and probation. So for example,
today's already twenty twenty five and you committed, for example
the u I right in twenty twenty five years, So technically, uh,
(12:00):
your new policing as long as you're rehabilitated, right, or
you do volunteer work as you mentioned Knina, you finish
your school and then you're working steadily, volunteer church.
Speaker 3 (12:12):
Basically predicant approve.
Speaker 4 (12:14):
But remember in the past and the UI kelan ataposia
and probation.
Speaker 3 (12:20):
So example, not in Canina.
Speaker 4 (12:22):
Let's say in a current do you I conviction in
twenty twenty and then you fight your case, for example,
and then a cur now court record saying that or
conviction that you have to undergo a probation. What the
law requires before this policy is you have to finish
(12:44):
your probation. So let's say NATAPUSSMO in twenty twenty two, right,
or let's say twenty twenty three, and then the court
said you do probation, you do community service for three years,
So twenty two plus two twenty two plus three is
twenty twenty six Kappa not that tapples approbation mode, and
(13:05):
you cannot apply for naturalization until your probation is done.
Speaker 3 (13:10):
So basically, with this new uh what they call this new.
Speaker 4 (13:14):
Policy, as long as you can show that you have
rehabilitated and do volunteer work, you might be able to
file for naturalization now. But of course questions are in
Mahababayan before jumping into this advice, sal and evaluate in
your immigration history and criminal records before filing, just to
(13:38):
make sure that once you apply.
Speaker 1 (13:43):
Right.
Speaker 4 (13:43):
But this is a really good question for your hand
that might be predidal applying naturalization.
Speaker 2 (13:49):
That's right, that's right. And for those who have some
questions related to the topic. But the alemans adding a
Facebook feed or info at PHLV radio dot comedic comment data,
SA feed Natal and we'll make sure in the Maga
attorney Lisa and something on Diito attorney. We will take
this opportunity to throw these questions as adding a programma
(14:14):
p h l V Radio Sabo attorney. I fell behind
on child support child support non issue years ago, but
I've since paid everything and have a good relationship with
my kids. Will you s C, I still hold that
against me?
Speaker 4 (14:32):
Yes, that's also another factors for your hand and showing
good moral character. Right, self support is really taken into
consideration in approving your naturalization. If you're not paying child
support even in the in the passage of let's say
outside the five years good moral character.
Speaker 3 (14:56):
But now if you already pay everything, let's let's say.
Speaker 4 (15:02):
Child support in twenty fifteen, that was ten years ago,
ten years ago.
Speaker 3 (15:08):
Right, uh?
Speaker 4 (15:09):
And then your child or rather your powers brought each
old support proceedings against you in court, right, and then
felt cup behind kapa for payment. Then either werejo at
that point or because you were depressed at the bajo first,
let's say that baya, that's really a big factor for
(15:29):
immigration to consider even as I said, outside of five
years a good more character period. But now if even
if you fell behind in the past, UH, and then
you paid everything already right and have a good relationship
with your children, that could be considered in approving your naturalization.
Speaker 3 (15:50):
So there's a hope, right, makaba bay, and nothing that
that UH.
Speaker 4 (15:55):
Had failed to child to pay child support in the
past to pay and UH to apply for naturalization now
and there's a probability and a good probability that your
naturalization will be approved.
Speaker 2 (16:08):
Okay. So that sounds attorney like. It's an opportunity both
as an opportunity and a warning.
Speaker 4 (16:13):
Also Parayan, that's that's correctly your hands in the opportunity
in a worry ye kumulator fast in terms of trouble
with the law or immigration violations, you should be okay
to file for naturalization.
Speaker 3 (16:31):
In fact, it is not in that that you can
still apply for naturalization despite what.
Speaker 4 (16:40):
Your criminal records and your immigration violations as long as
those were declared a mahaba bay and during your adjustment
of status of BRECOD applications. What I tell clients is
don't worry about those pasts and mistakes because immigration.
Speaker 3 (16:56):
Already are part of you.
Speaker 4 (16:58):
As long as you know you cleared those those criminal
convictions and records your or misrepresentation, were able to obtain waivers.
Speaker 3 (17:07):
Right.
Speaker 4 (17:08):
That's why there was already an extreme veding at that point,
and that's why Immigration U S c I s approved
your case because of.
Speaker 3 (17:16):
Your moral character and the waiver that that was approved.
Speaker 4 (17:21):
So moving forward, as long as there's no other criminal
convictions from the time of the green card to the
application after your taking uh this should that should not
be concerned.
Speaker 2 (17:33):
Mm hmmat attorney, Attorney, the next question happened will pertain
to one of the the best benefits and privileges once
you become a US citizen. You you attorney. But many
times or or some other uh non I mean immigrant
(17:54):
communities U S citizen shape. Sometimes they they find these
people a d M V or a supermarket trying to
register people, you know, for for to vote, sometimesmily by
mistake naka register. Attorney relates to that, Sabinadito, I was
(18:17):
once registered to vote by mistake, but I never actually voted. Zabin,
will this prevent me from becoming a citizen?
Speaker 3 (18:27):
Well?
Speaker 4 (18:27):
An lawful voter registration can be a conditional bar right,
so in terms of good more character in a conditional bar,
a permanent bar. In bar by the way, Macaba Bayan
are those who have criminal convictions of murder aggravated felony
claiming to be a citizen che rather includes.
Speaker 3 (18:47):
Also registered in the vote right.
Speaker 4 (18:49):
But as we mentioned, Karina is a conditional bar because
in as long as you can show mistake. This is
a really good discussion Kyoha new unlawful registration because we
have been getting many consultations Atkanina where people just go
to d m V and they feel out some forms
without does almost understanding that you know they are being
(19:12):
registered to vote right. Not only that the m V
or my supermarket or public events, but also schools MA
Kababa and Maramikumana Studia when they were students, you know
at the university when they're turning eighteena what you call
is personnels or or workers nansa uh municipal or the
(19:36):
city hall where they provide a blank another other registration
form Ina pasasujan and that those students sometimes they don't
mind signing their names and probably providing their names, their address,
the information in the sign without actually looking at the
US citizen casimic check check backs. Don't it that they
(19:58):
need to be a citizen to to register, So Maami
Taimanababa and as we mentioned, there was a mistake in
registering to vote, and as we mentioned, it's a convintional bar. Now,
some of my clients who went to me was that
when Uh, when he mistakenly registered to vote, information Siba
(20:24):
like you know you're required to vote now or there
is information about the people running for public office and
then ala acceptadalahan and then when he checked uh he
was actually registered to vote. And what we advised him
to do is to contact the the wherever the voters
registration is and to withhold or rather withdraw the registration
(20:48):
and obtain a proof of wither while.
Speaker 3 (20:51):
So that is what we call finally retraction. So that
was came in very easily, Quanjur in the interview and
Immigration approved the naturalization because of the mistake and the
time the retraction.
Speaker 4 (21:05):
The other situation a man C. Johan was that the
same scenario Manabata. They registered to vote and then also
there was set up some some informations about voting.
Speaker 3 (21:19):
And then you find a naturalization.
Speaker 4 (21:21):
Landla realized that oh I was registered to vote or
Immigration called the attention that you know they are actually
registered to vote. But also if they never voted and
probably took some steps to withhold or rather withdraw the registration,
(21:42):
that could also show with more character, right and above
purpose If you look at the the the purpose of
tuation is to vote. So if you never actually vote,
then that shows that you know you never intended to
vote because you are not eligible to vote. In that situation,
it's a fifty to fifty chance that Immigration might still
(22:04):
find you good more character because you did not time
the require the the withholding or rather the withdrawal of
the Water registration. But again it's a combination of circumstances,
like especially if you have the case to show that
you were a minor and then you either you studied
uh Chase address the mosula or you had an accident
(22:29):
that you after that that impairs your ability to understand
what's going on.
Speaker 3 (22:34):
So most likely you can convince Immigration.
Speaker 4 (22:37):
That you still possess the moral character despite Water's registration.
Speaker 2 (22:42):
All right, viewers, I don't have any criminal records, but
I don't really volunteer either. Does that mean I don't
have a good moral character.
Speaker 4 (22:59):
Yeah, another all because you have a bit more character
than money. And then they require non volunteering alone. It
is not just the absence of a volunteer work. It
also means living like average and responsible citizen.
Speaker 3 (23:15):
They cannot go volunteer, uh.
Speaker 4 (23:19):
Volunteer right in the parents mona, NASA whatever NASA not
being homeless or that mean bankruptcy, you know. So it's
not just a single act of not volunteering will make
you uh deny the denial of your naturalization application.
Speaker 3 (23:38):
But it means rather as we are saying, like living like.
Speaker 4 (23:42):
An average responsible citizen, they are working lawfully of course,
paying your taxes and supporting your family and obeying the
law right wall and the u I wallac any criminal
type of record convictions and traffic tickets.
Speaker 3 (23:58):
Right.
Speaker 4 (23:59):
It might help volunteer works, but also that's not the
only way show good moral characters.
Speaker 3 (24:06):
You're five.
Speaker 2 (24:08):
I'm sure there's tons of other ways for our Kaba
Bayans and for those seeking uh to apply for naturalization
US for US citizenship. There's a lot of other ways
for you to be able to uh demonstrate young in
your good moral character young young booting Puso part adding
(24:31):
Manhay and and I'm sure and just keep the conversation going. Uh.
In the meantime, H and attorney and then young final
advice Parasa adding Mayan uh and those who are seeking
US citizenship and naturalization and with regards to good moral
(24:53):
character attorney.
Speaker 3 (24:55):
Yes, Maka bay and uh.
Speaker 4 (25:00):
Nothing who are already eligible to file for naturalization to
file one. I mean a lot of people are still anxious.
They see a lot of social media. H shared social
media saying that that record holders are being held at
the airport, et cetera. Mara Mayo, citizens that consult the
(25:20):
parent I Johan Uh if they are safe to travel,
you know, outside the US, et cetera.
Speaker 3 (25:27):
What I tell them is number one.
Speaker 4 (25:28):
As long as you mentioned Karina, you did everything that
you did when you applied for adjustment of status, meaning
you disclose uh the negative informations about your innovationion history
and criminal records or applied for a waiver and nothing
happened after you get your your green card, right, so
you're very clean. From the time you get your green card,
you're you're okay to still to file for naturalization. But
(25:51):
the deeds have been above into waven in in the past.
You are so and the number two to a new
new palace in the lavas m U s c I
s four four years ago for four is four days ago, right,
uh defining good moral character will are some proper instructions
(26:12):
now U s c I s in terms of how
how would the immigation officers would would evaluate inn put
more character your documents and kalama you provide there since
it's already been there, right, we advise some listeners not
and it does applying for nancialization to gather documentations uh
aside not only from from your immigration records or trouble
(26:34):
with the law or criminal convictions, et cetera, but also
your positive side as we mentioned Canina, like letters from
community leaders, records of your volunteers, even you might paymit MO,
Red Cross, hurricane or bag et cetera, wildfire, anything that
(26:55):
that shows your your volunteer work or even financial contributions.
Malp been Bayern again looking to Lunan and also prove
that you're paying taxes. Right, you need to keep your
taxes records just because it becomes handy when you go
to the interview.
Speaker 2 (27:12):
Right.
Speaker 4 (27:13):
And also like in rehabilitation and karina, especially probation, if
you completed your probation letter from your probation officer to
put in your Mama Mama requirements from U s C I.
Speaker 3 (27:28):
S Pero.
Speaker 4 (27:29):
As we mentioned Karina, if you don't have anything to hide,
it's kind of fair approach. And in evaluating good more character,
of course, Natin, it's to stay out of trouble at smooth,
smooth process and in your application for naturalization.
Speaker 2 (27:53):
All right, slam attorneys, And if you're coming in late
to the to the podcast or to the broadcast or
to this live stream redefining good moral character what it
means for your naturalization and I'm sure or send it
(28:13):
over at info at p h l V Radio dot
com will send it over to attorney Disa. And this
is one of the hardest topics latest top but the
attorney before I let you go immigration updates, then patting.
Speaker 3 (28:30):
At yes.
Speaker 4 (28:34):
Policy and s adding social media platforms f J is
Invation Love Group or f J is a yes inmogation
attorney adding love Firm, Invasion Law group, social media and
website and of course.
Speaker 3 (28:50):
Johan where actually it's.
Speaker 4 (28:51):
Already there that that they have to look at your
social media account right when you're applying for an immigant
visa slim bet in terms of looking at your social media,
whether you're you're you know, sharing type of or supporting
terrorist activities Randela a union in the new social media
account right so in makababay and not ins. And if
(29:14):
they're sharing you know, hate crimes et cetera, or anything
that that will not that that that rather support any
groups that that is they.
Speaker 3 (29:25):
Call it anti American.
Speaker 4 (29:26):
So ARAM updates adding social media. And of course you
can always message us to peach ALV radio to our
social media of what are the things that you need
us to discuss, need to post a piece al we
ragio or we can also privately message us to UH
to discuss your immigration concerns.
Speaker 3 (29:47):
And again every first Friday.
Speaker 4 (29:48):
Of the month, we still have that free legal consultation
at the Consulate General in San Francisco right from ten
o'clock to twelve and then one to three o'clock.
Speaker 3 (29:59):
UH you in Programma did alvi regio listener.
Speaker 4 (30:10):
LAALAA attorney flowed me Javier Disa from San Francisco, California.
Speaker 2 (30:18):
Partner at Reeves Immigration Law Group as a young information
in and for those who are listening to us on
our podcast stream Papa Salavat adding podcast partners and the
download and not in podcast Mama and a pH l
(30:42):
V Radio Wednesdays at seven p m. ATMA began from
Reeves Immigration Law Group from Las Vegas, Nevada to now
pH l V Radio Kasamas. The attorney disa. We will
see you again next time.
Speaker 1 (30:58):
Reeves Immigration Lag has just brought you immigration law on
your side Wednesday's seven pm Pacific on PHLV Radio.
Speaker 5 (31:08):
Reeve's Immigration Law Group has been representing immigrants for nearly
forty years. Reeve's Immigration Law Group has been fighting for
its clients through experience and expertise with immigration lawyers you
can access at reasonable fees even on Saturday. Payment plans
are also available. Call us for your immigration solutions. We
can do worldwide telephone and Skype consultations. Reeve's Immigration Lawgroup
(31:32):
one eight hundred seven nine five eight zero zero nine.
Reeves Immigration Law Group has offices in Los Angeles, San Francisco, China,
and Philippine CS at www dot r Reeves dot com.
Reeves Immigration Lawgroup one eight hundred seven nine five eight
zero zero nine
Reef's Immigration Law Group now brings you immigration law on
your side.
Speaker 2 (00:07):
All right, Hawaii, and welcome to another immigration law on
your side right here at pH l V Radio at
it puts at in Amaten from Reeve's Immigration Law Group
Macababay and young and redefining good moral character pattern. You
know when we were in school pating maritime it's a
(00:31):
good moral character. Otherwise mapatagog is atting Guidance Council or
what it means for your naturalization? Yeah, don't focused. Not
in a young immigration law on your side. We'll be
discussing an important new USCIS policy Memorandum Naslama in August
fifteenth restoring a rigorous, holistic and comprehensive good moral character
(00:56):
evaluation standard for naturalization applicants. What does this mean for
immigrants seeking US citizenship? I think immigration expert from Reef's
Immigration Law Group attorney flow me have your attorneyhan.
Speaker 3 (01:17):
At very timely and.
Speaker 4 (01:22):
Labasa inmibition policy as you mentioned was fifteen langant it's
a good moral character at the Pilipinas pentire subject additional
subject with g m r C good moral character and
right Kanda.
Speaker 3 (01:37):
Yeah policy and U s squayo heart.
Speaker 4 (01:41):
Bring us back to the original spirit elate moral character
and s G m C for citizenship or naturalization, so
instead not land applicant if they were out of trouble, U,
s C I S are there as you mentioned, Krina
(02:01):
instructed to see.
Speaker 3 (02:02):
The holistic approach.
Speaker 4 (02:05):
No, you know, as a United States in terms of
Canelian community contributions, family responsibilities, malaak, we have education, employment
and overall conduct in determining in good moral character in
(02:27):
your and Memahan also ensures applicante in the UH criminal
acts at Kaliman Mero criminal activities in the past, rehabilitate
now the rehabilitation at para support and good moral character.
Speaker 2 (02:50):
Attorney, remind us again before we go further, because this
is going to be a very very spirited conversation. I'm sure,
Madame questions Attorney noting later on, but remind us first,
attorney and requirements general requirements you know before one can
apply for naturalization.
Speaker 4 (03:12):
That's really a good start in Johanna, nothing because we
keep on advising our clients to fail their naturalization already,
because once they become a citizen, they will be treated
as such. And of course on top of being a
citizen UH corresponding obligations and rights, right to vote, the
(03:33):
right to jury, and right to a federal positions or
job the federal in offered a federal government and also
federmcdual citizen.
Speaker 3 (03:43):
We always advise our Kambabayan.
Speaker 4 (03:47):
Natural citizens at the same time, it could maintain Filipino citizenship.
Now it's AMAR requirements of costcal and below over it.
In Pokyo, the have Partama pak file naturalization Una paraloa.
Speaker 3 (04:02):
I drink holder in Nagaio for either three or five years.
Speaker 4 (04:05):
Three years spoke I married to a citizen and have
been married for three years that US citizen and holder
for three years the same time.
Speaker 3 (04:16):
And drink through marriage.
Speaker 4 (04:18):
You can apply five years thereafter, but in fact you
can apply three months in advance with para UH maybe
an opportunity that an immigration for the interview right so
union union paralawa requirements and then centering physical presence important
among a Kababay and nothing now mamma businesses.
Speaker 3 (04:40):
Or properties or they are into.
Speaker 4 (04:43):
Something Pilipinas nagara and a laga you know or businesses
so kelan and physical presence at least half of the time. NASA,
United States Silla and then of course residents Trito right.
And then let's say, uh, Las Vegas, you just arrived,
you just rather transferred residents from the bay area to
(05:07):
the last to Las Vegas.
Speaker 3 (05:08):
Then you have to wait for at least three months. Uh.
Speaker 4 (05:10):
And then klan the provision POCON English Language examination which
is very basic, reading and writing, very elementary and one sentence.
That's why samakababa nothing in the Panag profile. There's also
a discussion right under administration that they will make the
examination more difficult, right, very elementary about one sentence reading,
(05:34):
one sentence writing, Nila. There's discussion muss muss my maga
essay or main manga discussion about the civic tests in
the LAM very basic, so of course asaid from the
English efficiency and.
Speaker 3 (05:48):
Civic test where you have to.
Speaker 4 (05:53):
Pass six out of the tenth questions, so no one
hundred questions, but they only ask ten questions and you
need to pass at least six six. And then attachment
to the Constitution uh that you're willing to defend and
support the constitution sola and in fact in a conditional
(06:13):
up and on a you a good moral character in
gm GMC, which is la man within that time frame
and applied right, let's say three years or five years
having no good moral character? Right, although uh, not only
within that time frame. Apply know us c I S
(06:34):
also has the discuestion to look.
Speaker 3 (06:37):
Beyond you three or five years. Uh, you know, good
moral character, so you employ your require general requirements.
Speaker 2 (06:46):
So turning focusing on the good moral character. Uh, is
there some sort of a checklist attorney partum Uh a
kaba Bayans who are already at this process major checklist
though in fact, well we were having a conversation here
at the studio memorized starts, spangled banner checks not gonna
(07:09):
yeah for for citizenship attorney practical checklist and to ensure
my good moral characters.
Speaker 3 (07:20):
Yeah, you don't.
Speaker 4 (07:21):
Before Nila and inclement on policy, queer, Youohan actually a
good moral character basically in the absence not any any
negative or negative records a guy and criminal convictions or misrepresentation.
Speaker 3 (07:36):
Right, So as long as you're.
Speaker 4 (07:38):
Doing your you're doing what you're doing, Uh, those you
can actually become a US citizen already now with the
new memo right, in the excesses of discretion, immigration also
will consider you atugnative positive attributes I know you can
not consider relate to you would be sustained community in
(08:00):
involvement of voluntary service. So if you look at the
naturalization form when you fill it out, are you a
member of any group, foundation, association, organization, whether for profit
or not. So pedemusa, I'm a member of a Catholic
church deva, So pedimon uh.
Speaker 3 (08:20):
That's already community involvement.
Speaker 4 (08:21):
If you you basically contribute financial visa in Bahan, or
do volunteer work in Bahan, or if you are a
you know, if you have kids growing up, you volunteer
my ptas viva or any any communities that in that
that or any organizations rather that involves community service. So
(08:43):
it's a yeah, palaa is caring for family members and
showing responsibility at home. Right, So, so elderly to US
citizen mother caretaker and have a care taker care giver.
I bring them to the house spital for the check apps,
I picked their medications, I bring them to the part
(09:07):
you know, come my available time to bring them to
the movie, et cetera. Right, So, and then plow would
be educational achievements and work history so important to you
and Cigaret and creyayoha maramid some applicant then let's say
do not in deed and you know elderly nezilla, let's
say fifty sixty, some of them do not want to
(09:29):
work anymore, right, but some other other uh and and
some of them too would be just working under the table,
which I really discouraged that because ab become a social
security to the mankyo. You're illegal in the US membering
green card, so you have to decline taxes, immigation, yeah right,
educational achievement and work history and then long residence in
(09:52):
the US well with the stable law of life, so
you must matagal And of course I'm filing taxes and
meeting financial obligation. Although Johan uh your policy and immigration,
there's also a question where it as you or any
federal or local taxes that are over Jews. And and
(10:14):
if you say yes, US will actually requests a proof
that either you are making some arrangement with I su
uh taxes that are considered over you, so before they
can actually approve your case, but then request immigration that
(10:35):
you are actually paying and substantially paying your taxes.
Speaker 3 (10:43):
Over you and approving naturalization application.
Speaker 2 (10:48):
Right right, and the attorney during the time that, Uh,
those who are seeking for US aship are here in
the United States. Uh, they're in their green card and
life happens, you know. But I'm I'm airing Maganapaka questions
(11:08):
the attorney Lavindito Attorney, I had a d u I
five years ago, but since then, I've finished school, I've
been working steadily and volunteer at my church. Will this
(11:29):
affect my citizenship application?
Speaker 3 (11:32):
That's really a good question for Johan.
Speaker 4 (11:36):
Before this policy right, once you have the UI is
considered as a negative pat or. In fact, we don't
recommend clients to follow one hind and probation. So for example,
today's already twenty twenty five and you committed, for example
the u I right in twenty twenty five years, So technically, uh,
(12:00):
your new policing as long as you're rehabilitated, right, or
you do volunteer work as you mentioned Knina, you finish
your school and then you're working steadily, volunteer church.
Speaker 3 (12:12):
Basically predicant approve.
Speaker 4 (12:14):
But remember in the past and the UI kelan ataposia
and probation.
Speaker 3 (12:20):
So example, not in Canina.
Speaker 4 (12:22):
Let's say in a current do you I conviction in
twenty twenty and then you fight your case, for example,
and then a cur now court record saying that or
conviction that you have to undergo a probation. What the
law requires before this policy is you have to finish
(12:44):
your probation. So let's say NATAPUSSMO in twenty twenty two, right,
or let's say twenty twenty three, and then the court
said you do probation, you do community service for three years,
So twenty two plus two twenty two plus three is
twenty twenty six Kappa not that tapples approbation mode, and
(13:05):
you cannot apply for naturalization until your probation is done.
Speaker 3 (13:10):
So basically, with this new uh what they call this new.
Speaker 4 (13:14):
Policy, as long as you can show that you have
rehabilitated and do volunteer work, you might be able to
file for naturalization now. But of course questions are in
Mahababayan before jumping into this advice, sal and evaluate in
your immigration history and criminal records before filing, just to
(13:38):
make sure that once you apply.
Speaker 1 (13:43):
Right.
Speaker 4 (13:43):
But this is a really good question for your hand
that might be predidal applying naturalization.
Speaker 2 (13:49):
That's right, that's right. And for those who have some
questions related to the topic. But the alemans adding a
Facebook feed or info at PHLV radio dot comedic comment data,
SA feed Natal and we'll make sure in the Maga
attorney Lisa and something on Diito attorney. We will take
this opportunity to throw these questions as adding a programma
(14:14):
p h l V Radio Sabo attorney. I fell behind
on child support child support non issue years ago, but
I've since paid everything and have a good relationship with
my kids. Will you s C, I still hold that
against me?
Speaker 4 (14:32):
Yes, that's also another factors for your hand and showing
good moral character. Right, self support is really taken into
consideration in approving your naturalization. If you're not paying child
support even in the in the passage of let's say
outside the five years good moral character.
Speaker 3 (14:56):
But now if you already pay everything, let's let's say.
Speaker 4 (15:02):
Child support in twenty fifteen, that was ten years ago,
ten years ago.
Speaker 3 (15:08):
Right, uh?
Speaker 4 (15:09):
And then your child or rather your powers brought each
old support proceedings against you in court, right, and then
felt cup behind kapa for payment. Then either werejo at
that point or because you were depressed at the bajo first,
let's say that baya, that's really a big factor for
(15:29):
immigration to consider even as I said, outside of five
years a good more character period. But now if even
if you fell behind in the past, UH, and then
you paid everything already right and have a good relationship
with your children, that could be considered in approving your naturalization.
Speaker 3 (15:50):
So there's a hope, right, makaba bay, and nothing that
that UH.
Speaker 4 (15:55):
Had failed to child to pay child support in the
past to pay and UH to apply for naturalization now
and there's a probability and a good probability that your
naturalization will be approved.
Speaker 2 (16:08):
Okay. So that sounds attorney like. It's an opportunity both
as an opportunity and a warning.
Speaker 4 (16:13):
Also Parayan, that's that's correctly your hands in the opportunity
in a worry ye kumulator fast in terms of trouble
with the law or immigration violations, you should be okay
to file for naturalization.
Speaker 3 (16:31):
In fact, it is not in that that you can
still apply for naturalization despite what.
Speaker 4 (16:40):
Your criminal records and your immigration violations as long as
those were declared a mahaba bay and during your adjustment
of status of BRECOD applications. What I tell clients is
don't worry about those pasts and mistakes because immigration.
Speaker 3 (16:56):
Already are part of you.
Speaker 4 (16:58):
As long as you know you cleared those those criminal
convictions and records your or misrepresentation, were able to obtain waivers.
Speaker 3 (17:07):
Right.
Speaker 4 (17:08):
That's why there was already an extreme veding at that point,
and that's why Immigration U S c I s approved
your case because of.
Speaker 3 (17:16):
Your moral character and the waiver that that was approved.
Speaker 4 (17:21):
So moving forward, as long as there's no other criminal
convictions from the time of the green card to the
application after your taking uh this should that should not
be concerned.
Speaker 2 (17:33):
Mm hmmat attorney, Attorney, the next question happened will pertain
to one of the the best benefits and privileges once
you become a US citizen. You you attorney. But many
times or or some other uh non I mean immigrant
(17:54):
communities U S citizen shape. Sometimes they they find these
people a d M V or a supermarket trying to
register people, you know, for for to vote, sometimesmily by
mistake naka register. Attorney relates to that, Sabinadito, I was
(18:17):
once registered to vote by mistake, but I never actually voted. Zabin,
will this prevent me from becoming a citizen?
Speaker 3 (18:27):
Well?
Speaker 4 (18:27):
An lawful voter registration can be a conditional bar right,
so in terms of good more character in a conditional bar,
a permanent bar. In bar by the way, Macaba Bayan
are those who have criminal convictions of murder aggravated felony
claiming to be a citizen che rather includes.
Speaker 3 (18:47):
Also registered in the vote right.
Speaker 4 (18:49):
But as we mentioned, Karina is a conditional bar because
in as long as you can show mistake. This is
a really good discussion Kyoha new unlawful registration because we
have been getting many consultations Atkanina where people just go
to d m V and they feel out some forms
without does almost understanding that you know they are being
(19:12):
registered to vote right. Not only that the m V
or my supermarket or public events, but also schools MA
Kababa and Maramikumana Studia when they were students, you know
at the university when they're turning eighteena what you call
is personnels or or workers nansa uh municipal or the
(19:36):
city hall where they provide a blank another other registration
form Ina pasasujan and that those students sometimes they don't
mind signing their names and probably providing their names, their address,
the information in the sign without actually looking at the
US citizen casimic check check backs. Don't it that they
(19:58):
need to be a citizen to to register, So Maami
Taimanababa and as we mentioned, there was a mistake in
registering to vote, and as we mentioned, it's a convintional bar. Now,
some of my clients who went to me was that
when Uh, when he mistakenly registered to vote, information Siba
(20:24):
like you know you're required to vote now or there
is information about the people running for public office and
then ala acceptadalahan and then when he checked uh he
was actually registered to vote. And what we advised him
to do is to contact the the wherever the voters
registration is and to withhold or rather withdraw the registration
(20:48):
and obtain a proof of wither while.
Speaker 3 (20:51):
So that is what we call finally retraction. So that
was came in very easily, Quanjur in the interview and
Immigration approved the naturalization because of the mistake and the
time the retraction.
Speaker 4 (21:05):
The other situation a man C. Johan was that the
same scenario Manabata. They registered to vote and then also
there was set up some some informations about voting.
Speaker 3 (21:19):
And then you find a naturalization.
Speaker 4 (21:21):
Landla realized that oh I was registered to vote or
Immigration called the attention that you know they are actually
registered to vote. But also if they never voted and
probably took some steps to withhold or rather withdraw the registration,
(21:42):
that could also show with more character, right and above
purpose If you look at the the the purpose of
tuation is to vote. So if you never actually vote,
then that shows that you know you never intended to
vote because you are not eligible to vote. In that situation,
it's a fifty to fifty chance that Immigration might still
(22:04):
find you good more character because you did not time
the require the the withholding or rather the withdrawal of
the Water registration. But again it's a combination of circumstances,
like especially if you have the case to show that
you were a minor and then you either you studied
uh Chase address the mosula or you had an accident
(22:29):
that you after that that impairs your ability to understand
what's going on.
Speaker 3 (22:34):
So most likely you can convince Immigration.
Speaker 4 (22:37):
That you still possess the moral character despite Water's registration.
Speaker 2 (22:42):
All right, viewers, I don't have any criminal records, but
I don't really volunteer either. Does that mean I don't
have a good moral character.
Speaker 4 (22:59):
Yeah, another all because you have a bit more character
than money. And then they require non volunteering alone. It
is not just the absence of a volunteer work. It
also means living like average and responsible citizen.
Speaker 3 (23:15):
They cannot go volunteer, uh.
Speaker 4 (23:19):
Volunteer right in the parents mona, NASA whatever NASA not
being homeless or that mean bankruptcy, you know. So it's
not just a single act of not volunteering will make
you uh deny the denial of your naturalization application.
Speaker 3 (23:38):
But it means rather as we are saying, like living like.
Speaker 4 (23:42):
An average responsible citizen, they are working lawfully of course,
paying your taxes and supporting your family and obeying the
law right wall and the u I wallac any criminal
type of record convictions and traffic tickets.
Speaker 3 (23:58):
Right.
Speaker 4 (23:59):
It might help volunteer works, but also that's not the
only way show good moral characters.
Speaker 3 (24:06):
You're five.
Speaker 2 (24:08):
I'm sure there's tons of other ways for our Kaba
Bayans and for those seeking uh to apply for naturalization
US for US citizenship. There's a lot of other ways
for you to be able to uh demonstrate young in
your good moral character young young booting Puso part adding
(24:31):
Manhay and and I'm sure and just keep the conversation going. Uh.
In the meantime, H and attorney and then young final
advice Parasa adding Mayan uh and those who are seeking
US citizenship and naturalization and with regards to good moral
(24:53):
character attorney.
Speaker 3 (24:55):
Yes, Maka bay and uh.
Speaker 4 (25:00):
Nothing who are already eligible to file for naturalization to
file one. I mean a lot of people are still anxious.
They see a lot of social media. H shared social
media saying that that record holders are being held at
the airport, et cetera. Mara Mayo, citizens that consult the
(25:20):
parent I Johan Uh if they are safe to travel,
you know, outside the US, et cetera.
Speaker 3 (25:27):
What I tell them is number one.
Speaker 4 (25:28):
As long as you mentioned Karina, you did everything that
you did when you applied for adjustment of status, meaning
you disclose uh the negative informations about your innovationion history
and criminal records or applied for a waiver and nothing
happened after you get your your green card, right, so
you're very clean. From the time you get your green card,
you're you're okay to still to file for naturalization. But
(25:51):
the deeds have been above into waven in in the past.
You are so and the number two to a new
new palace in the lavas m U s c I
s four four years ago for four is four days ago, right,
uh defining good moral character will are some proper instructions
(26:12):
now U s c I s in terms of how
how would the immigation officers would would evaluate inn put
more character your documents and kalama you provide there since
it's already been there, right, we advise some listeners not
and it does applying for nancialization to gather documentations uh
aside not only from from your immigration records or trouble
(26:34):
with the law or criminal convictions, et cetera, but also
your positive side as we mentioned Canina, like letters from
community leaders, records of your volunteers, even you might paymit MO,
Red Cross, hurricane or bag et cetera, wildfire, anything that
(26:55):
that shows your your volunteer work or even financial contributions.
Malp been Bayern again looking to Lunan and also prove
that you're paying taxes. Right, you need to keep your
taxes records just because it becomes handy when you go
to the interview.
Speaker 2 (27:12):
Right.
Speaker 4 (27:13):
And also like in rehabilitation and karina, especially probation, if
you completed your probation letter from your probation officer to
put in your Mama Mama requirements from U s C I.
Speaker 3 (27:28):
S Pero.
Speaker 4 (27:29):
As we mentioned Karina, if you don't have anything to hide,
it's kind of fair approach. And in evaluating good more character,
of course, Natin, it's to stay out of trouble at smooth,
smooth process and in your application for naturalization.
Speaker 2 (27:53):
All right, slam attorneys, And if you're coming in late
to the to the podcast or to the broadcast or
to this live stream redefining good moral character what it
means for your naturalization and I'm sure or send it
(28:13):
over at info at p h l V Radio dot
com will send it over to attorney Disa. And this
is one of the hardest topics latest top but the
attorney before I let you go immigration updates, then patting.
Speaker 3 (28:30):
At yes.
Speaker 4 (28:34):
Policy and s adding social media platforms f J is
Invation Love Group or f J is a yes inmogation
attorney adding love Firm, Invasion Law group, social media and
website and of course.
Speaker 3 (28:50):
Johan where actually it's.
Speaker 4 (28:51):
Already there that that they have to look at your
social media account right when you're applying for an immigant
visa slim bet in terms of looking at your social media,
whether you're you're you know, sharing type of or supporting
terrorist activities Randela a union in the new social media
account right so in makababay and not ins. And if
(29:14):
they're sharing you know, hate crimes et cetera, or anything
that that will not that that that rather support any
groups that that is they.
Speaker 3 (29:25):
Call it anti American.
Speaker 4 (29:26):
So ARAM updates adding social media. And of course you
can always message us to peach ALV radio to our
social media of what are the things that you need
us to discuss, need to post a piece al we
ragio or we can also privately message us to UH
to discuss your immigration concerns.
Speaker 3 (29:47):
And again every first Friday.
Speaker 4 (29:48):
Of the month, we still have that free legal consultation
at the Consulate General in San Francisco right from ten
o'clock to twelve and then one to three o'clock.
Speaker 3 (29:59):
UH you in Programma did alvi regio listener.
Speaker 4 (30:10):
LAALAA attorney flowed me Javier Disa from San Francisco, California.
Speaker 2 (30:18):
Partner at Reeves Immigration Law Group as a young information
in and for those who are listening to us on
our podcast stream Papa Salavat adding podcast partners and the
download and not in podcast Mama and a pH l
(30:42):
V Radio Wednesdays at seven p m. ATMA began from
Reeves Immigration Law Group from Las Vegas, Nevada to now
pH l V Radio Kasamas. The attorney disa. We will
see you again next time.
Speaker 1 (30:58):
Reeves Immigration Lag has just brought you immigration law on
your side Wednesday's seven pm Pacific on PHLV Radio.
Speaker 5 (31:08):
Reeve's Immigration Law Group has been representing immigrants for nearly
forty years. Reeve's Immigration Law Group has been fighting for
its clients through experience and expertise with immigration lawyers you
can access at reasonable fees even on Saturday. Payment plans
are also available. Call us for your immigration solutions. We
can do worldwide telephone and Skype consultations. Reeve's Immigration Lawgroup
(31:32):
one eight hundred seven nine five eight zero zero nine.
Reeves Immigration Law Group has offices in Los Angeles, San Francisco, China,
and Philippine CS at www dot r Reeves dot com.
Reeves Immigration Lawgroup one eight hundred seven nine five eight
zero zero nine
Popular Podcasts
Stuff You Should Know
If you've ever wanted to know about champagne, satanism, the Stonewall Uprising, chaos theory, LSD, El Nino, true crime and Rosa Parks, then look no further. Josh and Chuck have you covered.
Crime Junkie
Does hearing about a true crime case always leave you scouring the internet for the truth behind the story? Dive into your next mystery with Crime Junkie. Every Monday, join your host Ashley Flowers as she unravels all the details of infamous and underreported true crime cases with her best friend Brit Prawat. From cold cases to missing persons and heroes in our community who seek justice, Crime Junkie is your destination for theories and stories you won’t hear anywhere else. Whether you're a seasoned true crime enthusiast or new to the genre, you'll find yourself on the edge of your seat awaiting a new episode every Monday. If you can never get enough true crime... Congratulations, you’ve found your people. Follow to join a community of Crime Junkies! Crime Junkie is presented by audiochuck Media Company.
NFL Daily with Gregg Rosenthal
Gregg Rosenthal and a rotating crew of elite NFL Media co-hosts, including Patrick Claybon, Colleen Wolfe, Steve Wyche, Nick Shook and Jourdan Rodrigue of The Athletic get you caught up daily on all the NFL news and analysis you need to be smarter and funnier than your friends.