COVID-19 has impacted U.S. immigration significantly in 2020 and will continue to affect immigration well into 2021. In addition, a new presidential administration is moving into the White House in less than two weeks. In this episode, Anu, Ron, and Karuna discuss how EB-5 has been affected by the pandemic and the administration’s restrictions, and what might be expected from Biden’s administration.

The Klasko investment immigration attorneys will answer the following:
How have investors been impacted?
What happens if a project closes or is delayed?
What if jobs were created but due to the pandemic’s effect on the economy, they no longer exist?
What if the business has had to pivot or has had to make other material changes?
Is now a good time to initiate the EB-5 process?
How have processing times been affected by COVID?
Have the green card quotas changed?

Speakers in this episode are:
Anu Nair
 Ronald Klasko
Karuna Simbeck

Stay connected with us:
Email questions to podcast@klaskolaw.com
Follow us on LinkedIn, Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook
Sign up for newsletter and email updates

COVID-19 has impacted U.S. immigration significantly in 2020 and will continue to affect immigration well into 2021. In addition, a new presidential administration is moving into the White House in less than two weeks. In this episode, Anu, Ron, and Karuna discuss how EB-5 has been affected by the pandemic and the administration&rsquo;s restrictions, and what might be expected from Biden&rsquo;s administration.
The Klasko investment immigration attorneys will answer the following:
<ul>
<li>How have investors been impacted?</li>
<li>What happens if a project closes or is delayed?</li>
<li>What if jobs were created but due to the pandemic&rsquo;s effect on the economy, they no longer exist?</li>
<li>What if the business has had to pivot or has had to make other material changes?</li>
<li>Is now a good time to initiate the EB-5 process?</li>
<li>How have processing times been affected by COVID?</li>
<li>Have the green card quotas changed?</li>
</ul>
Speakers in this episode are:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.klaskolaw.com/team-member/anusree-nair/">Anu Nair</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.klaskolaw.com/team-member/h-ronald-klasko/"> Ronald Klasko</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.klaskolaw.com/team-member/karuna-chandani-simbeck/">Karuna Simbeck</a></li>
</ul>
Stay connected with us:
<ul>
<li>Email questions to <a href="mailto:podcast@klaskolaw.com">podcast@klaskolaw.com</a></li>
<li>Follow us on <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/klaskoimmigration/">LinkedIn</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/KlaskoLaw">Twitter</a>, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/klaskoimmigrationlaw/">Instagram</a>, and <a href="https://www.facebook.com/klaskoimmigrationlaw/">Facebook</a></li>
<li>Sign up for <a href="https://www.klaskolaw.com/contact-us/subscribe-updates/">newsletter and email updates</a></li>
</ul>

Welcome to Statutes of Liberty: An Immigration Podcast by Klasko Immigration Law Partners. 

The United States is many things: a great melting pot, a nation of immigrants, a land of opportunity. Millions have journeyed here seeking freedom and the chance for a better life. Belief in the American ideal means providing opportunities for everyone, regardless of race or birthplace, to achieve their highest potential. 

Join us as we unravel the ins and outs of American immigration policy, from the issues of today to the historic basis for laws already in place.

Statutes of Liberty

Join the attorneys of Klasko Immigration Law Partners in this podcast, Statutes of Liberty, as we unravel the ins and outs of American immigration policy, from the issues of today to the historic basis for laws already in place.

Join the attorneys of Klasko Immigration Law Partners in this podcast, Statutes of Liberty, as we unravel the ins and outs of American immigration policy, from the issues of today to the historic basis for laws already in place.

COVID-19 has impacted U.S. immigration significantly in 2020 and will continue to affect immigration well into 2021. In addition, a new presidential administration is moving into the White House in less than two weeks. In this episode, Anu, Ron, and Karuna discuss how EB-5 has been affected by the pandemic and the administration’s restrictions, and what might be expected from Biden’s administration. The Klasko investment immigration attorneys will answer the following: •	How have investors been impacted? •	What happens if a project closes or is delayed? •	What if jobs were created but due to the pandemic’s effect on the economy, they no longer exist? •	What if the business has had to pivot or has had to make other material changes? •	Is now a good time to initiate the EB-5 process? •	How have processing times been affected by COVID? •	Have the green card quotas changed?  Speakers in this episode are Anu Nair,  H. Ronald Klasko, Karuna Simbeck

Episode 20: EB-5 Visa Program During COVID-19

What happens when "duration of status" disappears for the first time in decades, and what should students, scholars, physicians, and the institutions that sponsor them do to prepare?

In this episode of Statutes of Liberty, host Tim D'Arduini, is joined by colleagues Anabel Nataros and Nigel James to unpack a new DHS rule eliminating duration of status (D/S) for F-1, J-1, and I visa holders, effective September 15, 2026. The change replaces the open-ended D/S notation with a fixed expiration date tied to each program, reshaping how individuals and their sponsoring institutions manage compliance.

The conversation walks through how the transition period works, including the four-year cap that applies even to longer programs like PhDs and medical residencies, and why international travel on or after September 15, 2026 immediately triggers the new fixed-expiration rule.

Tim, Anabel, and Nigel also cover:
The importance of monitoring I-94 records after every international trip, including common CBP errors that can shorten a stay
New extension-of-status filing requirements, timing, and the absence of premium processing for these applications
Practical steps universities, hospitals, and employers can take now to review, refine, and reduce friction for impacted populations
The shortened grace period at the end of a program, cut from 60 to 30 days
Advocacy and litigation avenues available to affected stakeholders

Whether you're a university international student office, a hospital sponsoring physicians in training, or an individual currently in F, J, or I status, this episode offers a clear roadmap for navigating the new rule before it takes effect.

Speakers on this episode are:
Tim D'Arduini, Partner
Anabel Nataros, Senior Associate
Nigel James, Associate

Stay connected with us:
Follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram, and Facebook.
Sign up for our newsletter and email updates.
Schedule a consultation here.

What happens when "duration of status" disappears for the first time in decades, and what should students, scholars, physicians, and the institutions that sponsor them do to prepare?
In this episode of Statutes of Liberty, host Tim D'Arduini, is joined by colleagues Anabel Nataros and Nigel James to unpack a new DHS rule eliminating duration of status (D/S) for F-1, J-1, and I visa holders, effective September 15, 2026. The change replaces the open-ended D/S notation with a fixed expiration date tied to each program, reshaping how individuals and their sponsoring institutions manage compliance.
The conversation walks through how the transition period works, including the four-year cap that applies even to longer programs like PhDs and medical residencies, and why international travel on or after September 15, 2026 immediately triggers the new fixed-expiration rule.
Tim, Anabel, and Nigel also cover:
<ul>
<li>The importance of monitoring I-94 records after every international trip, including common CBP errors that can shorten a stay</li>
<li>New extension-of-status filing requirements, timing, and the absence of premium processing for these applications</li>
<li>Practical steps universities, hospitals, and employers can take now to review, refine, and reduce friction for impacted populations</li>
<li>The shortened grace period at the end of a program, cut from 60 to 30 days</li>
<li>Advocacy and litigation avenues available to affected stakeholders</li>
</ul>
Whether you're a university international student office, a hospital sponsoring physicians in training, or an individual currently in F, J, or I status, this episode offers a clear roadmap for navigating the new rule before it takes effect.
Speakers on this episode are:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.klaskolaw.com/team/tim-darduini/">Tim D'Arduini</a>, Partner</li>
<li><a href="https://www.klaskolaw.com/team/annabelle-nataros/">Anabel Nataros</a>, Senior Associate</li>
<li><a href="https://www.klaskolaw.com/team/nigel-james/">Nigel James</a>, Associate</li>
</ul>
Stay connected with us:
<ul>
<li>Follow us on <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/klaskoimmigration/">LinkedIn</a>, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/klaskoimmigrationlaw/">Instagram</a>, and <a href="https://www.facebook.com/klaskoimmigrationlaw/">Facebook</a>.</li>
<li>Sign up for our <a href="https://www.klaskolaw.com/subscribe/">newsletter and email updates</a>.</li>
<li>Schedule a consultation&nbsp;<a href="https://www.klaskolaw.com/contact/">here</a>.</li>
</ul>

What happens when "duration of status" disappears for the first time in decades, and what should students, scholars, physicians, and the institutions that sponsor them do to prepare?  In this episode of Statutes of Liberty, host Tim D'Arduini, is joined by colleagues Anabel Nataros and Nigel James to unpack a new DHS rule eliminating duration of status (D/S) for F-1, J-1, and I visa holders, effective September 15, 2026. The change replaces the open-ended D/S notation with a fixed expiration date tied to each program, reshaping how individuals and their sponsoring institutions manage compliance.  The conversation walks through how the transition period works, including the four-year cap that applies even to longer programs like PhDs and medical residencies, and why international travel on or after September 15, 2026 immediately triggers the new fixed-expiration rule.  Tim, Anabel, and Nigel also cover:  The importance of monitoring I-94 records after every international trip, including common CBP errors that can shorten a stay New extension-of-status filing requirements, timing, and the absence of premium processing for these applications Practical steps universities, hospitals, and employers can take now to review, refine, and reduce friction for impacted populations The shortened grace period at the end of a program, cut from 60 to 30 days Advocacy and litigation avenues available to affected stakeholders  Whether you're a university international student office, a hospital sponsoring physicians in training, or an individual currently in F, J, or I status, this episode offers a clear roadmap for navigating the new rule before it takes effect.  Speakers on this episode are:  Tim D'Arduini, Partner Anabel Nataros, Senior Associate Nigel James, Associate  Stay connected with us:  Follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram, and Facebook. Sign up for our newsletter and email updates. Schedule a consultation here.

Episode 41: D/S Elimination: Final Rule Implementation and the Road Ahead

Once someone is eligible to file for naturalization, is it just a formality? Or are there hidden pitfalls that can delay, deny, or even undo an application?

In the second episode of our two-part naturalization series, host Karuna Simbeck is joined by colleagues Megan Kludt and Stacy Shore to build on the first episode's overview of naturalization eligibility. This conversation digs into the issues that can often surprise applicants in the process of becoming a US citizen.

Karuna, Megan, and Stacy discuss the criminal and moral character issues that can jeopardize a naturalization case – and in some circumstances, even an existing green card – along with why full disclosure to counsel remains essential even for issues already raised in a prior green card filing. They also cover how applicants can document good moral character through letters, affidavits, and other supporting evidence.

Karuna, Megan, and Stacy also cover the waivers, exemptions, and alternate pathways available to applicants who don't fit the standard mold, including:
The medical disability waiver (Form N-648) for the English and civics requirements
Age- and residency-based exemptions from the English language test
Reasonable accommodations for applicants with disabilities
Religious or conscientious objector exemptions
Special rules for overseas assignments, spouses of US citizens working abroad, and military service members
The circumstances under which citizenship can later be revoked

Whether you're preparing for a straightforward filing or navigating a more complicated immigration history, this episode offers practical guidance for anticipating and addressing naturalization's trickiest issues.

Speakers on this episode are:
Karuna Simbeck, Partner
Megan Kludt, Senior Associate
Stacy Shore, Senior Counsel

Stay connected with us:
Follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram, and Facebook.
Sign up for our newsletter and email updates.
Schedule a consultation here.

Once someone is eligible to file for naturalization, is it just a formality? Or are there hidden pitfalls that can delay, deny, or even undo an application?
In the second episode of our two-part naturalization series, host Karuna Simbeck is joined by colleagues Megan Kludt and Stacy Shore to build on the first episode's overview of naturalization eligibility. This conversation digs into the issues that can often surprise applicants in the process of becoming a US citizen.
Karuna, Megan, and Stacy discuss the criminal and moral character issues that can jeopardize a naturalization case &ndash; and in some circumstances, even an existing green card &ndash; along with why full disclosure to counsel remains essential even for issues already raised in a prior green card filing. They also cover how applicants can document good moral character through letters, affidavits, and other supporting evidence.
Karuna, Megan, and Stacy also cover the waivers, exemptions, and alternate pathways available to applicants who don't fit the standard mold, including:
<ul>
<li>The medical disability waiver (Form N-648) for the English and civics requirements</li>
<li>Age- and residency-based exemptions from the English language test</li>
<li>Reasonable accommodations for applicants with disabilities</li>
<li>Religious or conscientious objector exemptions</li>
<li>Special rules for overseas assignments, spouses of US citizens working abroad, and military service members</li>
<li>The circumstances under which citizenship can later be revoked</li>
</ul>
Whether you're preparing for a straightforward filing or navigating a more complicated immigration history, this episode offers practical guidance for anticipating and addressing naturalization's trickiest issues.
Speakers on this episode are:
<ul>
<li>Karuna Simbeck, Partner</li>
<li>Megan Kludt, Senior Associate</li>
<li>Stacy Shore, Senior Counsel</li>
</ul>
Stay connected with us:
<ul>
<li>Follow us on <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/klaskoimmigration/">LinkedIn</a>, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/klaskoimmigrationlaw/">Instagram</a>, and <a href="https://www.facebook.com/klaskoimmigrationlaw/">Facebook</a>.</li>
<li>Sign up for our <a href="https://www.klaskolaw.com/subscribe/">newsletter and email updates</a>.</li>
<li>Schedule a consultation <a href="https://www.klaskolaw.com/contact/">here</a>.</li>
</ul>

Once someone is eligible to file for naturalization, is it just a formality? Or are there hidden pitfalls that can delay, deny, or even undo an application?  In the second episode of our two-part naturalization series, host Karuna Simbeck is joined by colleagues Megan Kludt and Stacy Shore to build on the first episode's overview of naturalization eligibility. This conversation digs into the issues that can often surprise applicants in the process of becoming a US citizen.  Karuna, Megan, and Stacy discuss the criminal and moral character issues that can jeopardize a naturalization case – and in some circumstances, even an existing green card – along with why full disclosure to counsel remains essential even for issues already raised in a prior green card filing. They also cover how applicants can document good moral character through letters, affidavits, and other supporting evidence.

Episode 40: Becoming a US Citizen (Part 2): Pitfalls and Accommodations

What does it actually take to trade in a green card for a US passport, and why might now be the right time to start that process?

In the first installment of a new two-part series on naturalization, host and attorney at Klasko Immigration Law Partners, Megan Kludt, is joined by Stacy Shore and Karuna Simbeck to break down what it means to become a US citizen, and why the topic feels especially timely right now.

Megan, Stacy, and Karuna walk through the practical advantages of naturalization, including:
Eliminating the need to renew a green card every ten years
Access to a US passport, which can ease international travel and reduce scrutiny at reentry
Protection from the removal and detention risks that lawful permanent residents can face
The right to vote in federal, state, and local elections
Eligibility for certain federal jobs, security clearances, and grants
An easier path to sponsoring family members
The option to retain citizenship in another country, since US law does not require giving it up

The conversation also covers eligibility and residency requirements, how continuous residence and physical presence are calculated, and why extended time outside the US can put an application at risk.

Whether you're a green card holder considering your next step or simply want to understand the process, this episode lays out the practical benefits, requirements, and process in becoming a US citizen.

Speakers on this episode are:
Megan Kludt, Senior Associate
Karuna Simbeck, Partner
Stacy Shore, Senior Counsel

Stay connected with us:
Follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram, and Facebook.
Sign up for our newsletter and email updates.
Schedule a consultation here.

What does it actually take to trade in a green card for a US passport, and why might now be the right time to start that process?
In the first installment of a new two-part series on naturalization, host and attorney at Klasko Immigration Law Partners, Megan Kludt, is joined by Stacy Shore and Karuna Simbeck to break down what it means to become a US citizen, and why the topic feels especially timely right now.
Megan, Stacy, and Karuna walk through the practical advantages of naturalization, including:
<ul>
<li>Eliminating the need to renew a green card every ten years</li>
<li>Access to a US passport, which can ease international travel and reduce scrutiny at reentry</li>
<li>Protection from the removal and detention risks that lawful permanent residents can face</li>
<li>The right to vote in federal, state, and local elections</li>
<li>Eligibility for certain federal jobs, security clearances, and grants</li>
<li>An easier path to sponsoring family members</li>
<li>The option to retain citizenship in another country, since US law does not require giving it up</li>
</ul>
The conversation also covers eligibility and residency requirements, how continuous residence and physical presence are calculated, and why extended time outside the US can put an application at risk.
Whether you're a green card holder considering your next step or simply want to understand the process, this episode lays out the practical benefits, requirements, and process in becoming a US citizen.
Speakers on this episode are:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.klaskolaw.com/team/megan-kludt/">Megan Kludt</a>, Senior Associate</li>
<li><a href="https://www.klaskolaw.com/team/karuna-simbeck/">Karuna Simbeck</a>, Partner</li>
<li><a href="https://www.klaskolaw.com/team/stacy-shore/">Stacy Shore</a>, Senior Counsel</li>
</ul>
Stay connected with us:
<ul>
<li>Follow us on <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/klaskoimmigration/">LinkedIn</a>, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/klaskoimmigrationlaw/">Instagram</a>, and <a href="https://www.facebook.com/klaskoimmigrationlaw/">Facebook</a>.</li>
<li>Sign up for our <a href="https://www.klaskolaw.com/subscribe/">newsletter and email updates</a>.</li>
<li>Schedule a consultation <a href="https://www.klaskolaw.com/contact/">here</a>.</li>
</ul>

In the first installment of a new two-part series on naturalization, host and attorney at Klasko Immigration Law Partners, Megan Kludt, is joined by Stacy Shore and Karuna Simbeck to break down what it means to become a US citizen, and why the topic feels especially timely right now.

Episode 20: EB-5 Visa Program During COVID-19

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