EPISODE SUMMARY:

In this informative episode, immigration attorneys Frances Hayden and special guest Liz Fogel Profumo discuss the ins and outs of Extraordinary Ability Visas. They break down the differences between O-1 visas and EB-1 green cards, qualification requirements, and application processes for various professionals including artists, scientists, and digital content creators.

KEY TIMESTAMPS:

00:01 - Show Introduction

01:14 - Definition of Extraordinary Ability Visas

02:27 - Sponsorship Requirements

03:58 - Types of O-1 Visas (O-1A and O-1B)

05:21 - Qualification Requirements for Influencers

07:20 - EB-1 Green Card Standards

08:32 - O-1 Visa Application Process

10:26 - Application Documentation

13:41 - Success Rates and Approval Statistics

ABOUT THE SHOW:

"Talking U.S. Visas with Immigration Attorney Frances Hayden" is a podcast focused on helping listeners understand the complexities of U.S. immigration law. Host Sophia Morales and immigration expert Frances Hayden provide valuable insights and practical guidance for those navigating the U.S. visa system.

In this episode of US Immigrant Journey: Opportunities and Challenges, immigration attorney Edwin Fogam explores the critical role of priority dates and the Visa Bulletin in the U.S. immigration process. The discussion covers how priority dates determine eligibility for filing adjustment of status, why some green card applicants face years-long waits, and the impact of visa retrogression. With practical examples and strategic advice, the episode helps immigrants and employers navigate the complexities of family-based and employment-based visa categories to achieve successful outcomes.

00:00 - Show Introduction and Welcome

01:30 - Understanding Priority Dates in Immigration

04:00 - Importance of Priority Dates for Green Card Applications

07:30 - What Is the Visa Bulletin and Who Publishes It?

11:00 - Why Green Card Wait Times Can Be Years Long

15:00 - Understanding Visa Retrogression and Its Impact

19:00 - Working and Living in the U.S. While Awaiting Priority Dates

23:00 - Wait Times for Different Visa Categories

27:30 - Why Some Visa Categories Face Longer Delays

31:00 - Tracking the Visa Bulletin for Your Case

35:00 - Recapturing Earlier Priority Dates

39:00 - Strategic Planning for Immigration Challenges

43:00 - Educating Yourself on the Immigration Process

46:00 - Conclusion and Call to Action

US Immigrant Journey: Opportunities and Challenges is a podcast dedicated to guiding foreign nationals and employers through the complexities of U.S. immigration law. Edwin Fogam an experienced immigration attorney with over 25 years of expertise, the show provides clear, actionable insights into visa processes, green card applications, and compliance strategies. With real-world examples and strategic advice, the podcast empowers listeners to navigate their immigration journey with confidence.

In this episode of U.S. Immigrant Journey: Opportunities and Challenges, immigration attorney Edwin Fogam unpacks the often misunderstood PERM labor certification process. Drawing from his own immigrant experience and years of legal practice, Edwin outlines how employers can successfully sponsor foreign workers without jeopardizing their filings. From recruitment timelines to avoiding costly mistakes, this episode is essential listening for employers considering employment-based green cards.

00:01 – Show intro and guest background: Edwin Fogam, founder of Fogam & Associates 01:25 – What is PERM labor certification and why is it required? 03:05 – Step-by-step overview of the PERM recruitment process 05:40 – Average timeline for a PERM case (12–14 months) 07:15 – Common causes of delay: audits, errors, and missed deadlines 08:50 – Mistakes employers make: job descriptions, rushed timelines, language requirements 11:30 – Importance of a “recruitment manual” for compliance 13:20 – How the Department of Labor evaluates whether U.S. workers are available 15:30 – How to minimize the risk of audit or denial 17:15 – What Fogam & Associates does to support employers throughout the PERM process 19:45 – Why the PERM process is so tightly regulated 22:05 – Can you expedite a PERM filing? (Short answer: No) 23:00 – Can small or mid-sized businesses realistically file for PERM? 24:30 – Why PERM may be required—even when other immigration options exist 27:10 – Common reasons for PERM denial: tailored job descriptions, missed posting deadlines 29:45 – Appeal or refile: What happens if PERM is denied? 32:00 – Final tips and how to connect with Edwin Fogam

U.S. Immigrant Journey: Opportunities and Challenges explores the legal realities of immigration in America through the eyes of those who’ve lived it and practice it. Led by attorney Edwin Fogam, this podcast delivers expert insights into employment visas, green card sponsorship, immigration pitfalls, and real-life strategies to navigate a complex system.