"Learn About the United States" is intended to help permanent residents gain a deeper understanding of U.S. history and government as they prepare to become citizens. The product presents 96 short lessons, based on the sample questions from which the civics portion of the naturalization test is drawn. An audio CD that allows students to listen to the questions, answers, and civics lessons read aloud is also included. For immigrants preparing to naturalize, the chance to learn more about the history and government of the United States will make their journey toward citizenship a more meaningful one.

Contents: (1) Overview; (2) Current Law and Policy; Worldwide Immigration Levels; Per-Country Ceilings; Other Permanent Immigration Categories; (3) Admissions Trends: Immigration Patterns, 1900-2008; FY 2008 Admissions; (4) Backlogs and Waiting Times: Visa Processing Dates: Family-Based Visa Priority Dates; Employment-Based Visa Retrogression; Petition Processing Backlogs; (5) Issues and Options in the 111th Congress: Effects of Current Economic Conditions on Legal Immigration; Family-Based Preferences; Permanent Partners; Point System; Immigration Commission; Interaction with Legalization Options; Lifting Per-Country Ceilings. Charts and tables.

This reference helps practitioners understand the eligibility requirements for a particular visa, required evidentiary proof, and practice pointers to help navigate tricky waters.Immigration filings have some unique pressures: urgent deadlines involving I-94 expiration dates, varied and complex procedures for numerous visa petitions, constantly changing regulations, and government agencies that provide little leeway for error. The book is designed to allow you to quickly find a rule and obtain immediate guidance on key issues. It includes: eligibility analyses designed to provide a short review of the requirements for any given visa petition;practice pointers designed to provide quick access to difficult issues that may arise;checklists that will guide practitioners as to what to include in a petition;and common immigration acronyms with an easily-referenced Acronyms section.