Nurse Online

US House passes bill favoring high-skilled foreign workers

2011-12-15T00:32:00.000-08:00

US House passes bill favoring high-skilled foreign workers

The United States House of Representatives passed this week a bill — House Resolution 3012 — which favors high-skilled workers by removing country-specific caps on immigrant engineers, computer scientists and other professionals.

"The Filipino Reporter" said House representatives voted 389 to 15 in favor of HR 3012 or the "Fairness for High-Skilled Immigrants Act." The bill is also expected to pass in the Senate.

By eliminating the cap from each country on high-skilled working visa, talented immigrants from India, Philippines, China and other ther emerging economies can work in the US, the report said.

Sponsored by Republican Rep. Jason Chaffetz of California, the bill promotes family unity for legal immigrants who want to petition their relatives, "The Filipino Reporter" said.

The legislation raises the country limit for family green cards from seven percent of a total of 226,000 to 15 percent, easing backlogs for immigrants from the Philippines and Mexico. -

GMA News

Failed schools’ closure to address nurses glut

2009-10-30T23:46:00.000-07:00

MANILA, Philippines—The closure of 177 nursing schools that have failed to pass a single graduate in the nursing licensure exams will address the glut of some half a million board passers in the country, recruitment consultant Emmanuel Geslani said in a statement Monday.

Geslani was reacting to reports that Chairman Emmanuel Angeles of the Commission on Higher Education has warned 177 nursing schools for their miserable performance both in teaching standards and facilities needed for on-the-job training. Angeles also ordered the evaluation of schools that have passing rates below the national average.

Read the article>> Failed schools’ closure to address nurses glut

177 nursing schools produce only flunkies, says exec

2009-10-24T23:51:00.000-07:00

MANILA, Philippines—The Commission on Higher Education (CHEd) is closely monitoring at least 177 nursing schools in the country that have not had even one single graduate passing the nursing licensure exams in the last five years.

CHEd Chairman Emmanuel Angeles gave the warning in a speech to heads of colleges and universities in Metro Manila and nearby regions on Friday afternoon.

Read the article: 177 nursing schools produce only flunkies, says exec

Retrogression... there is hope. US might open hiring nurses again

2009-08-21T01:59:00.000-07:00

US healthcare system pinched by nursing shortage

WASHINGTON – The U.S. healthcare system is pinched by a persistent nursing shortage that threatens the quality of patient care even as tens of thousands of people are turned away from nursing schools, according to experts.

The shortage has drawn the attention of President Barack Obama. During a White House meeting on Thursday to promote his promised healthcare system overhaul, Obama expressed alarm over the notion that the United States might have to import trained foreign nurses because so many U.S. nursing jobs are unfilled.

Read the full article: US healthcare system pinched by nursing shortage

Unemployed Filipino nurses to be tapped as "N.A.R.S."

2009-08-21T01:46:00.001-07:00

The NARS (Nurses Assigned in Rural Service) Project was conceptualized to mobilize nurses to the barrios, in the same objective as "Doctors to the Barrios" program by the DOH. A Mindanao law maker wanted to expand the NARS program and mobilize more nurses, especially the unemployed, to be trained and work as midwives.

Read the full article: More jobless nurses eyed as rural midwives

Retrogression lingers... no new visa priority dates in Sep 09

2009-08-21T01:26:00.000-07:00

After a year, the retrogression in Visa priority dates lingers. The latest update I have for September 2009 shows that visa numbers is still "U" (unavailable), for all countries it looks like.

Visa Bulletin for October 2008

2008-09-14T01:38:00.000-07:00

Visa Bulletin for October 2008

Priority dates get moving again!

Notes for this visa bulletin:

EMPLOYMENT VISA AVAILABILITY
Item E of the May 2008 Visa Bulletin (number 118, volume VIII) indicated that many Employment cut-off dates had been advancing very rapidly, based on indications that the Citizenship and Immigration Services (CIS) would need to review a significantly larger pool of applicants than there were numbers available in order to maximize number use under the FY-2008 annual limits. That item also indicated that if the CIS projections proved to be incorrect, it would be necessary to adjust the cut-off dates during the final quarter of FY-2008. The CIS estimates have proven to be very high resulting in: 1) the “unavailability” of all Employment Third preference categories beginning in July, 2) the “unavailability” of numbers for China and India Employment Second preference adjustment of status cases during September, and 3) the establishment of many October Employment cut-off dates which are earlier than those which applied during FY-2008.

Little if any forward movement of the cut-off dates in most Employment categories is likely until the extent of the CIS backlog of old priority dates can be determined. It is estimated that the FY-2009 Employment-based annual limit will be very close to the 140,000 minimum.

Updated visa interview dates from US Embassy in Manila

2008-07-16T21:45:00.000-07:00

Have you applied for a visa for the USA? Below is an update of the Visa Interview dates for those with Visa applications for the USA. Please take note of the DATE of the file, so you will know if it has been updated since your last visit. Visa Interview Appoinment (US Embassy, Manila)

See the webpage: Waiting periods for visa interview
Download the file: Interview Dates* (updated: Thu June 15, 2006)

This will be updated as soon as a new list is published.
*File is in PDF format. You will need a PDF reader to open the file. I suggest you try Foxit PDF Reader

--== UPDATED!!!! ==--

Update [16-JUL-2008]

The US Embassy in Manila no longer provide an updated list for Visa Interview Dates, but however, they have a portal for applicants to check their Visa Appointment dates INDIVIDUALLY.

Please visit this webpage: http://203.177.135.10/ivappointment/login.asp

Information on Filipino Dual Citizenship

2008-07-16T08:24:00.001-07:00

--==From the website of Commission on Filipino Overseas==--
http://www.cfo.gov.ph/dual_citizenship.htm

What is the Citizenship Retention and Re-acquisition Act of 2003?

Republic Act No. 9225 or the Citizenship Retention and Re-acquisition Act of 2003 is a law passed on 29 August 2003 which grants natural-born Filipinos who have lost their Filipino citizenship through naturalization in a foreign country, the opportunity to retain or re-acquire their Filipino citizenship.

Who are natural-born citizens of the Philippines?

Natural-born citizens of the Philippines are those who are citizens of the Philippines from birth without having to perform any act to acquire or perfect their Philippine citizenship. These are:

Those whose fathers or mothers are citizens of the Philippines at the time of their birth; and
Those born before January 17, 1973, of Filipino mothers, who elect Philippine citizenship upon reaching the age of majority.

Is it possible for Filipino to hold dual citizenship or more than one citizenship at the same time?

Before the passage of R.A. 9225, dual citizenship of some Filipinos already existed as result of the operation of nationality laws. For example, a child born in the United States of America of Filipino parents is an American citizen under US law, and a Filipino citizen under Philippine law. The child's American citizenship is derived from the principle of jus soli or place of birth, while his Philippine citizenship is derived from the principle of jus sanguinis or citizenship of his parents.

The passage of R.A. 9225 makes it possible for Filipinos to hold dual citizenship through means other than by birth.

With the passage of R.A. 9225, what happens to a natural-born Filipino who becomes naturalized in another country?

A natural born Filipino who becomes a naturalized citizen of another country is deemed not to have lost his/her citizenship under the provisions of the said law.

How does one re-acquire Filipino citizenship?

A natural-born Filipino who lost his/her Filipino citizenship through naturalization in another country may re-acquire Filipino citizenship through the following process:

For applications filed overseas

For applications filed in the Philippines

Does one who re-acquire Filipino citizenship need to reside in the Philippines?

Residency in the Philippines is not a requirement for those who re-acquire Filipino citizenship.

What rights and privileges is one entitled to on re-acquiring Filipino citizenship?

Filipinos who re-acquire Filipino citizenship under this Act may once again enjoy full civil, economic and political rights under existing laws of the Philippines. Among these are:

right to won real property in the Philippines
right to engage in business or commerce as a Filipino
right to practice one's profession in accordance with law
right to acquire a Philippine passport
right to vote in Philippine elections under existing laws
other rights and privileges enjoyed by Filipino citizens

Can one who re-acquire Filipino citizenship vote in elections in the Philippines?

A person who re-acquires Filipino citizenship may vote in elections in the Philippines provided that he/she complies with the residency requirement under existing Philippine election laws. The person may however, vote overseas in Philippine national elections (for President, Vice-President, Senators and sectoral representatives) in accordance with the provisions of the Overseas Absentee Voting Act of 2003. The Supreme Court also ruled in 2006 that the dual citizens need not establish residence in the Philippines to be able to register as an absentee voter.

Having re-acquired Filipino citizenship, can one hold public office in the Philippines?

Yes, provided that those seeking elective office meet the qualifications as required by the Philippine Constitution and existing laws, and at the time of the filing of the certificate of candidacy, make a personal and sworn renunciation of any and all foreign citizenship before a public officer authorized to administer an oath.

Those appointed to a public office shall make a sworn renunciation of the oath of allegiance to the country where they took their oath.

What is the effect of dual citizenship on the payment of income taxes?

Republic Act 8424 provides that only incomes derived from the Philippines are subject to taxation by the Philippine government. However, in 1976, the Philippines and United States of America signed a treaty on taxation in order to avoid double taxation for Filipinos who derive income from the United States and for Americans who derive income from the Philippines. Under this treaty, taxes paid in the Philippines may be credited in the United States and vice versa. The Philippine government has concluded similar tax agreements with 34 other countries including Australia, Canada, Japan, Italy, New Zealand, United Kingdom, Germany and Spain, among others.

After re-acquiring Filipino citizenship, can one practice his or her profession in the Philippines?

A person who has re-acquired Filipino citizenship may be able to practice his/her profession in the Philippines, provided that he/she applies with the Professional Regulation Commission (or the Supreme Court for lawyers) for a license or permit to engage in such practice.

As a Filipino citizen, can one's spouse who is a foreign national live in the Philippines?

An immigrant visa may be issued to a Filipino citizen's foreign spouse which entitles him/her to permanently reside in the Philippines. Said visa may be obtained by applying at Philippine Embassies or Consulates. The validity of the visa, however, is contingent upon the Filipino citizenship of his/her spouse.

If a Filipino citizen chooses to travel to the Philippines with his/her foreign spouse and children, do the spouse and children need to secure additional travel documents from the Philippine Embassy or Consulate General beforehand?

Under the Balikbayan Law, a Filipino citizen's foreign spouse and children traveling to the Philippines with him/her, do not need to secure other travel documents because they are entitled to a visa-free entry to the Philippines for a period of one (1) year, among other privileges.

What is the citizenship status of one's children after re-acquiring Filipino citizenship?

If his/her are unmarried and below 18 years of age upon re-acquisition of Filipino citizenship, his/her children are also recognized as Filipino citizens under Philippine laws and are entitled to the rights and privileges attendant thereto.

What are required in applying for retention or re-acquisition of one's Filipino citizenship?

Those applying for retention or re-acquisition of Filipino citizenship need to submit the following:

duly completed verified petition (R.A. 9225 Form No.1)

notarized oath of allegiance

two (2) recent 2" x 2" colored photographs of the applicant (over white background)

application fee

proof as natural born Filipino citizen, an original and photocopy of at least one of the following:
a. Philippine birth certificate;
b. old Philippine passport;
c. voter's affidavit or voter's identification card;
d. marriage contract; and
e. other documents proving that the applicant is a former natural born Filipino citizen

photocopy of foreign passport

photocopy of certificate of naturalization or an original affidavit stating how foreign citizenship was acquired.

two (2) self-addressed and stamped legal size envelopes

BI registered applicants, are also required to submit the following:

original Alien Certificate Registration; and

original Immigrant Certificate of Residence for Temporary Visitor

If the applicant is also applying for his/her dependents, the following additional documents are required for each dependent:

two (2) recent 2" x 2" colored photographs over white background

photocopy of birth certificate

photocopy of foreign passport

proof of payment of application fee

Note: All application must be fastened in a legal size folder.

Is there a fee involved in re-acquiring one's Filipino citizenship under this Act?

Fees involved in reacquiring one's Filipino citizenship under this Act are minimal, consisting only of the notarial and administrative fees prescribed by Philippine Embassies or Consulates, and the US$50 (for overseas applicants) or PhP2,500 (for Philippine based applicants) processing fee prescribed by the Bureau of Immigration.

Is there an approval period for re-acquiring one's Filipino citizenship under this Act?

Applications found to be sufficient and complete may be issued an Order of Approval the Consul General/Commissioner of Immigration within 5 days upon recommendation by the evaluating officer. For applications with insufficient supporting documents, the evaluating officer will inform the applicant that he/she has thirty (30) days to submit the required documents

What are the terms of privacy insofar as submitted documents, records, information and/or application to reacquire citizenship are concerned"

All documents, records, information and/or applications submitted to the Bureau of Immigration remain confidential. No information about any person or entity without the express consent of the person concerned.

Helpful Tips:

1. Birth certificates can be requested for online through the NSO website, www.ecensus.com.ph. R.A. 9225 Form No.1 may also be downloaded from BI website, www.immigration.gov.ph, or the CFO website, www.cfo.gov.ph.

2. Contact information and addresses of Philippine Embassies and Consulates where applications for dual citizenship may be filed, may also be downloaded from DFA website at www.dfa.gov.ph.

Oath of Allegiance to the Republic of the Philippines

"I _____________________, solemnly swear (or affirm) that, I will support and defend the Constitution of the Republic of the Philippines and obey the laws and legal orders promulgated by the duly constituted authorities of the Philippines; and I hereby declare that I recognize and accept the supreme authority of the Philippines and will maintain true faith and allegiance thereto; and that I impose this obligation upon myself voluntarily without mental reservation or purpose of evasion."

US Employment Based (EB) Visa Bulletin for August 2008

2008-07-15T23:52:00.000-07:00

US Employment Based (EB) Visa Bulletin for August 2008

Employment Third Preference Other Workers Category: Section 203(e) of the NACARA, as amended by Section 1(e) of Pub. L. 105-139, provides that once the Employment Third Preference Other Worker (EW) cut-off date has reached the priority date of the latest EW petition approved prior to November 19, 1997, the 10,000 EW numbers available for a fiscal year are to be reduced by up to 5,000 annually beginning in the following fiscal year. This reduction is to be made for as long as necessary to offset adjustments under the NACARA program. Since the EW cut-off date reached November 19, 1997 during Fiscal Year 2001, the reduction in the EW annual limit to 5,000 began in Fiscal Year 2002

Note: EMPLOYMENT THIRD PREFERENCE VISA AVAILABILITY

Demand for numbers, primarily by USCIS for adjustment of status cases, will bring the entire Employment Third preference category to the annual numerical limit by the end of June. As a result, this category will become “unavailable” beginning in July and will remain so for the remainder of FY-2008. Such action will only be temporary, however, and Employment Third preference availability will return to the cut-off dates established for June in October, the first month of the new fiscal year.

PNA endorses stronger BSN program, wants practical nursing courses halted

2008-07-15T23:05:00.000-07:00

Group endorses stronger BSN program, wants practical nursing courses halted
07/08/2008 | 07:55 PM

MANILA, Philippines - The Philippine Nursing Association (PNA) on Tuesday endorsed the government’s move to strengthen the Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program but opposed plans to institutionalize practical nursing programs.

In an interview, PNA national president Leah Primitiva Samaco-Paquiz said the group said that if school implement the curriculum embodied in Commission on Higher Education (Ched) memorandum order No. 5, which provides for an additional load of 43 units and related learning experience (RLE) for the BSN program, students may no longer need the services of review centers.

The RLE is the internship or hands-on learning education of all nursing students prior to graduation.

“With the competency appraisal 1 and 2, these institutions can now assess their students before they can graduate. These subjects are included in the curriculum so that right before graduation, students can decide whether they need help from review centers or not," Paquiz explained.

Paquiz stressed that nursing students “really don’t need review centers," saying that it is their school’s priority to mold their students in time for the examinations.

Read the whole article from GMANews.TV

Post your thoughts/comments

Nursing - A Recession-proof Career Choice

2008-07-15T10:24:00.000-07:00

Nursing - A Recession-proof Career Choice

(ARA) - If you've always wanted a career in healthcare, helping people, there's great news. According to the Department of Labor, careers in nursing are looking better than ever, even with a recession looming. In fact, according to Yahoo! HotJobs, health care careers, including nursing, are "recession-proof" careers. Fortunately, with online education options, it's easier than ever to get a degree in nursing.

With a nursing degree you will have the skills to participate in the fastest growing occupation in the world. Advancement opportunities are strong in nursing, especially with increased education and experience. In two to four years and with minimal investment, nursing degree holders can expect to make, on average, between $48,000 and $80,000 with great benefits, stability and plentiful opportunities for advancement.

There are top online universities that offer flexible, quick and well-respected nursing and healthcare degree programs that you can complete online. Click on the link below and simply fill out the "Request Information" form to be matched with the top online universities that offer nursing and healthcare degree programs.

By selecting the university of your choice and filling out the "Request Information" form you will receive free information regarding tuition cost, financial aid, course availability and time to graduate.

Get started now, click here to request information from top nursing and healthcare universities.

In order to give you the most customized information possible, you will be asked to enter your contact information and answer a few short questions.

Is this your day to start a new career in nursing? Learning more is the first step.

Copyright © 2008, ARAnet, Inc.

US Visa Bulletin for July

2008-07-09T18:48:00.001-07:00

Note: EMPLOYMENT THIRD PREFERENCE VISA AVAILABILITY

Demand for numbers, primarily by USCIS for adjustment of status cases, will bring the entire Employment Third preference category to the annual numerical limit by the end of June. As a result, this category will become “unavailable” beginning in July and will remain so for the remainder of FY-2008. Such action will only be temporary, however, and Employment Third preference availability will return to the cut-off dates established for June in October, the first month of the new fiscal year.

Visa Bulletin for March 2008

2008-02-20T08:49:00.001-08:00

Visa Bulletin for February 2008

2008-02-04T00:14:00.000-08:00

CGFNS Announces New Pricing for its Credential Verification Service (CVS) for New York State

2007-11-20T18:18:00.000-08:00

CGFNS Announces New Pricing for its Credential Verification Service (CVS) for New York State
PHILADELPHIA, PA — November 13, 2007 — CGFNS International today announced new pricing for its Credential Verification Service for New York State. The new price was necessitated by increases in fees charged by primary sources for securing required documents on behalf of applicants. Effective January 1, 2008, the following fee will be charged:

Credential Verification Service for New York State (CVS) $350.00*
*Includes $50 order processing fee

Retrogression to be lifted, EB-3 visas "current" in July 2007

2007-06-14T23:39:00.000-07:00

July Visa Bulletin from USCIS

As can be seen in the most current version of the Visa Bulletin from the USCIS, in July, all visa numbers will become current. Simply put, the retrogression has ended. This is the moment most of the nurses from the Philippines and the rest of the world are waiting for. Don't miss this chance to secure a visa before another wave retrogression happens again.

EMPLOYMENT-BASED PREFERENCES

First : Priority Workers: 28.6% of the worldwide employment-based preference level, plus any numbers not required for fourth and fifth preferences.

Second : Members of the Professions Holding Advanced Degrees or Persons of Exceptional Ability: 28.6% of the worldwide employment-based preference level, plus any numbers not required by first preference.

Third : Skilled Workers, Professionals, and Other Workers: 28.6% of the worldwide level, plus any numbers not required by first and second preferences, not more than 10,000 of which to "Other Workers".

Fourth : Certain Special Immigrants: 7.1% of the worldwide level.

Fifth : Employment Creation: 7.1% of the worldwide level, not less than 3,000 of which reserved for investors in a targeted rural or high-unemployment area, and 3,000 set aside for investors in regional centers by Sec. 610 of P.L. 102-395.

June 07 Visa Bulletin reduces waiting times for EB-3 to 2 years for Philippines

2007-06-01T01:21:00.000-07:00

EMPLOYMENT-BASED PREFERENCES

First : Priority Workers: 28.6% of the worldwide employment-based preference level, plus any numbers not required for fourth and fifth preferences.

Second : Members of the Professions Holding Advanced Degrees or Persons of Exceptional Ability: 28.6% of the worldwide employment-based preference level, plus any numbers not required by first preference.

Third : Skilled Workers, Professionals, and Other Workers: 28.6% of the worldwide level, plus any numbers not required by first and second preferences, not more than 10,000 of which to "Other Workers".

Fourth : Certain Special Immigrants: 7.1% of the worldwide level.

Fifth : Employment Creation: 7.1% of the worldwide level, not less than 3,000 of which reserved for investors in a targeted rural or high-unemployment area, and 3,000 set aside for investors in regional centers by Sec. 610 of P.L. 102-395.

New CGFNS guideline for June 06 Philippine Nursing Boards examinees

2007-04-27T20:01:00.000-07:00

Executive Order Issued in the Philippines Authorizing Partial Re-take of June 2006 Philippine Nursing Licensure Examinations

March 12, 2007 — Philippine President Gloria M. Arroyo issued an Executive Order authorizing a partial re-take of the June 2006 Philippine nursing licensure examinations. This Order, as the "Whereas" sections make clear, was in response to the announcement by CGFNS on February 14, 2007, that nurses who were licensed in the Philippines pursuant to the June 2006 examinations would not be eligible for VisaScreen certification unless the June passers re-took and passed the equivalent of the compromised Tests 3 and 5 of those examinations. What follows are answers to the Frequently Asked Questions CGFNS has received regarding this subject.

Does passage of the NCLEX or the CGFNS Exam make someone who passed only the June 2006 Exam eligible for a VisaScreen Certificate?

No. In order to become eligible for a VisaScreen Certificate, CGFNS has required that a June 2006 passer must first re-take and pass, with a score of 75 percent or better, the “special voluntary examination” covering the subject matter of Tests 3 and 5. Passage of the NCLEX or the CGFNS Examination by any passer of the compromised June 2006 PRC examination will not substitute for the requirement that he or she take the “special voluntary examination” authorized by Executive Order 609 issued by the Philippine Government on March 12, 2007.

Does the CGFNS decision have an effect on the validity of the Philippine nursing licensure?

No. CGFNS recognizes the validity of the Philippine nursing license obtained by the June 2006 passers. The CGFNS decision to deny issuing a VisaScreen Certificate to the June 2006 passers of the Philippine Nursing Licensure Examination relates only to their status under U.S. immigration law.

When must I re-take Tests 3 and 5 to be eligible for a VisaScreen Certificate?

June, 2006 — Philippine Nursing Licensure Examination test passers must re-take Tests 3 and 5 as provided in Executive Order 609 stating that a “special voluntary examination” for this purpose will be given both in June and December, 2007. A June 2006 passer may take this special voluntary examination in either one of those months, at the examinee’s choice. Executive Order 609 does not authorize re-takes of Tests 3 and 5 after December 2007.

What score do I have to get in order to be eligible for VisaScreen Certificate?

You must obtain a passing score of 75 percent or better on each Test. An average score of 75 -- in which one score is above 75 and one below 75 -- will not be sufficient to qualify for VisaScreen certification.

The American Nurses Association (ANA) has recommended that the June 2006 passers should re-take the entire licensure examination, even though CGFNS requires a re-take of only Tests 3 and 5. Which path should I follow?

To gain eligibility for VisaScreen certification, which is a pre-requisite to obtaining a U.S. occupational visa, you should meet the standard set by CGFNS, i.e., retaking Tests 3 and 5 before the end of 2007. ANA has clarified its position by stating that "ANA recognizes the CGFNS'' position that successful retake of Tests #3 and #5 is an acceptable remedy to meet the needs of a VisaScreen Certificate."

If I take the re-take of Tests 3 and 5 in June 2007, and I fail to get a score of 75 in one or both tests, can I re-take one or both Tests in December 2007?

No. After you have re-taken Tests 3 and 5 once in a “special voluntary examination,” no further re-take is authorized by the Executive Order of the Philippine Government.

If I pass Tests 3 and 5 in 2007, what other things must I do to obtain a VisaScreen Certificate?

Detailed information about the requirements for a VisaScreen Certificate are available on this website at http://www.cgfns.org/files/pdf/req/vs-requirements.pdf

Order Processing Fee Now Required for Select CGFNS Services

2007-02-06T20:56:00.000-08:00

Order Processing Fee Now Required for Select CGFNS Services

Beginning on January 1, 2007, CGFNS began charging an Order Processing Fee of $50 for select CGFNS services, in addition to the published application fee. The Order Processing Fee defrays operational cost increases associated with energy, transportation, mail services, electronic record management, and technology enhancements for the secure transmission of documents.

The Order Processing Fee is non-refundable and needs to be paid within 60 days of application, in addition to the published application fee for the associated CGFNS service.

The Order Processing Fee applies to the following services:

* VisaScreen® Initial Certificate (valid for five years)
* VisaScreen® Renewal Certificate
* Certification Program: Initial Applicant: CGFNS Qualifying Exam, Credentials Review, English Language Proficiency
* Credentials Evaluation Service: Full Education Course-by-Course Report
* Credentials Evaluation Service: Healthcare Profession & Science Course-by-Course Report
* Credential Verification Service for New York State (CVS)

Click here to view the 2007 CGFNS Fee Schedule.

-CGFNS Newsletter

USCIS Launches New and Improved Website

2006-11-09T10:53:00.000-08:00

Web Portal will serve as a “one stop shop” for all U.S. immigration and citizenship information

Washington, DC – One of the most trafficked websites in the Federal government has a fresh new look. U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has replaced its old website with a new, more effective, www.uscis.gov. USCIS hosts an average of redesigned Web Portal available at the same Internet address, 135,000 daily visitors for a total of nearly six million total visits a month.

The improved Web Portal will serve as a “one stop shop” for all information about U.S. immigration and citizenship. Visitors to the “new” USCIS.gov will find it easier to download petitions and applications, file forms electronically, and sign up online for appointments at their local district offices using InfoPass. The new site is easier to navigate, visitors can use the built-in search engine to easily locate needed information
and can find answers to their immigration questions through the interactive “How Do I…?” page.

“USCIS.gov is often the first point of contact for USCIS applicants, their families and the interested public. Our previous website left many of those visitors without answers to their questions,” said USCIS Director Emilio Gonzalez. “With the launch of the new Web Portal, visitors will find the in-demand information they need within a sleek, modern framework. You’re going to like the updated Web Portal, it’s a giant step forward for our agency and a helpful new tool for our applicants.”

Many of the pages that visitors have bookmarked have changed. Please refer to the USCIS Fact Sheet, “U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services Launches New Website,” for new links to your favorites: Applications & Petitions, Services & Benefits, Information for Lawful Permanent Residents & Green Cards, e-filing, Booklets & Fact Sheets and InfoPass.

Please visit the new USCIS Web Portal at www.uscis.gov for answers to all your citizenship and immigration questions.

– USCIS –

CGFNS redesigns its website

2006-10-27T20:07:00.001-07:00

The CGFNS International website (www.cgfns.org) has been redesigned to improve navigation and streamline the information located on the site. The redesigned website will launch November 1, 2006. Applicants are still able to apply online, check their status online, and download applications from the website. New logos have been created for all CGFNS programs. Under each program is a link to a Requirements document that has been developed for each program in pdf format. "Announcements" now has its own section on the website. General news is located under "About Us", along with important information about CGFNS International.

A new "Tools and Information" section has been added to the website. This section contains various subsections for the various audiences who visit the CGFNS International website, including applicants, state boards of nursing, recruiters/employers/immigration attorneys, and test site administrators. Statistical data regarding the number of certificates/reports issued for each program and the top countries of education is also contained in this section. The document library contains electronic copies of various CGFNS publications. Frequently Asked Questions can also be accessed in this section.

The online store, containing various study aids and other materials for purchase, remains part of the CGFNS International website. The "Contact Us" email form is also linked to the homepage of the website. Emails are answered during CGFNS'' normal business hours.

CGFNS 2006-2007 Exam Dates and Exam Sites for the Nov. 8 exam

2006-09-24T13:25:00.000-07:00

CGFNS has posted dates for the Certification Program (CP) Qualifying Exam for 2006 to 2007. The new date schedule can be found on this address: http://www.cgfns.org/sections/app/examdateslocs.shtml
You will also find in that page, at the lower half, all participating examination sites for the November 8, 2006 CGFNS Certification Program.

Good luck to all CGFNS takers this November!

Pre-Departure Orientation Seminar (PDOS) Cebu

2006-08-30T03:50:00.000-07:00

Requirements:
Essentially identical to those required by CFO Manila. See requirements here: PDOS Manila

Fees:
Pursuant to CFO Board Resolution No. 2006-02, CFO fees effective 01 August 2006 are as follows:
Registration Fee PhP 400.00
Replacement of lost Guidance and Counseling Certificate PhP 800.00

Schedule:
Pre-Departure Orientation Seminar Schedule for Emigrants (CFO Cebu City)
[1] United States of America and Canada Mondays to Fridays 10:00 am - 12:00nn
[2] Australia, New Zealand and Other Countries Mondays to Fridays 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm

Schedule of Peer Counseling Sessions for Youth Migrants (CFO Cebu City)
[1] All Countries Mondays to Fridays 10:00 am - 12:00 nn and 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm

CFO Cebu Desk
Causing-Lozada Building
Osmeña Boulevard corner MJ Cuenco Street
Cebu City, Philippines
Telefax: (032) 255-5253
Email: cfocebu@mozcom.com
URL: http://www.cfo.gov.ph

(click map for larger image)

2006-2007 CGFNS Certification Program (CP) Qualifying Exam Dates

2006-08-11T22:47:00.000-07:00

2006-2007 Certification Program (CP) Qualifying Exam Dates

The deadlines are fast approaching for internationally educated registered nurses who wish to take the November 8, 2006 and March 14, 2007 Certification Program Qualifying Exam of nursing knowledge, required for licensure in the majority of U.S. states.

Click here for the 2006-2007 Certification Program (CP) Qualifying Exam dates and locations. The exam sites that will be open for the November 8, 2006 exam are also posted here.

June 2006 Phillipine Nurses Licensure Examination Results

2006-07-19T01:18:00.000-07:00

The Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) announces that 17,821 out of 42,006 passed the Nurse Licensure Examination given by the Board of Nursing in the cities of Manila, Baguio, Cagayan de Oro, Cebu, Davao, Iloilo, Legazpi, Lucena, Tacloban, Tuguegarao and Zamboanga last June 2006.

Due to the increase on the number of examinees and after a thorough scientific statistical treatment to the report of irregularity, the results were released in twenty-seven (27) working days from the last day of examination.

Registration for the issuance of Professional Identification Card (ID) and Certificate of Registration will start on Monday, May 29, 2006 but not later than June 19, 2006. Those who will register are required to bring the following: duly accomplished Oath Form or Panunumpa ng Propesyonal, current Community Tax Certificate (cedula), 2 pieces passport size picture (colored with white background and complete nametag), 1 piece 1” x 1” picture (colored with white background and complete nametag), 2 sets of metered documentary stamps, and 1 short brown envelope with name and profession; and to pay the Initial Registration Fee of P600 and Annual Registration Fee of P450 for 2006-2009. Successful examinees should personally register and sign in the Roster of Registered Professionals.

Registration of successful examinees will start on Tuesday, August 15, 2006. The schedule of registration in alphabetical order will be announced later. The oathtaking ceremony of the successful examinees in the said examination as well as the previous ones who have not taken their Oath of Professional will be held before the Board on Tuesday, August 22, 2006 at 8:00 o’clock in the morning at the Araneta Coliseum, Araneta Center, Cubao, Quezon City; on August 23, 2006 in Cebu; on August 26, 2006 in Zamboanga; on August 29, 2006 in Iloilo; on August 30, 2006 in Tuguegarao; on August 31, 2006 in Legazpi and Davao; on September 3, 2006 in Baguio; on September 6, 2006 in Tacloban; and on September 7, 2006 in Cagayan De Oro. Please contact the Accredited Professional Organization (Philippine Nurses Association) local chapter for further details. All must come in their white gala uniform, nurses cap, white duty shoes, without earrings, hair not touching the collar and without corsage.

No oathtaking will be allowed before the August 22, 2006 schedule in Manila. Oathtaking will be administered by the Board of Nursing as per RA 9173. Tickets will be available starting Tuesday, August 1, 2006 at the Ground Floor of PRC – Main Building, Sampaloc, Manila.

Download the exam results: June 2006 Nursing Licensure Exam Results*
*File is in PDF (Portable Document Format). You will need a PDF reader to open the file. I suggest you try Foxit PDF Reader

Pre-Departure Orientation Seminar (PDOS) Manila

2006-06-19T12:00:00.000-07:00

Pre-Departure Registration Requirements & PDOS Schedule
Website: http://www.cfo.gov.ph

CFO Manila Registrants:
Filipino emigrants or those leaving the country to settle permanently abroad are required to register with the CFO. Part of its registration requirements is attendance in the Pre-Departure Orientation Seminar (PDOS) to prepare them for settlement overseas. Those who are 12 years old and below are exempt from attending the PDOS. They must, however, be registered, even if by proxy. Children of emigrants, aged 13 to 19, are required to attend the Peer Counseling Program to help facilitate their adjustment to a new environment.

Requirements for Registration
1. Original valid passport;
2. Original and photocopy of visa;
3. One (1) passport-size photograph;
4. One (1) valid identification card with photograph;
5. Original and photocopy of Confirmation of Permanent Residence (for CANADA-bound emigrant);
6. Original and photocopy of Immigrant Data Summary (for USA bound emigrant);
7. Original and photocopy of letter of approval for Work to Residence visa (for New Zealand bound emigrants);
8. Photocopy of employment contract(for immigrant workers);
9. Duly completed registration form (downloadable at www.cfo.gov.ph); (Also see below)
10. Payment of the authorized registration fee ; and
11. Attendance in the PDOS or peer counseling session

For children 12 years old and below, the following additional documents are required if the proxy is not the legal/natural/adoptive parent of the registrant.
1. One(1) valid identification card with photograph of the proxy; and
2. Special Power of Attorney or notarized authorization letter from the parent/s/ or guardian/s authorizing the proxy to register the minor children.

Note: After satisfactory completion of the requirements, an emigrant registration sticker is affixed to the emigrant's passport

Downloads:
Form for US Bound Filipino Immigrant Workers (Nurses)
All other forms

Pre-Departure Orientation Seminar Schedule for Emigrants (CFO Manila)

United States of America and other countries
Mondays to Fridays 10:00 am - 12:00 nn and 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm

Canada
Mondays to Fridays 9:30 am - 12:00 nn

Fees
Pursuant to CFO Board Resolution No. 2006-02, CFO fees effective 01 August 2006 are as follows:
Registration Fee PhP 400.00
Replacement of lost Guidance and Counseling Certificate PhP 800.00

How to get there:
CFO Manila
Citigold Center
1345 Pres. Quirino Avenue corner Osmeña Highway (South Superhighway)
Manila, Philippines 1007
Tel. Nos. (02) 561-8321 locals 300 to 304; 200 to 204; 101 to 105
Fax No. (02) 561-8332
Email: cfodfa@info.com.ph ; cfomieo@info.com.ph
URL: http://www.cfo.gov.ph

(Click picture for larger image)

Note: CFO has offices in Manila and Cebu. For complete information about CFO and their services, please visit their official website.

A printable copy of this post is available in Word Document (DOC) format. Click to download: PDOS Information (pdos.doc, 133KB)

Required Documents for Visa Applications (US Embassy Manila)

2006-06-14T11:30:00.000-07:00

Required Documents for Visa Applications

When a beneficiary is eligible to apply for an immigrant or fiance(e) visa (that is, priority date becomes current and/all the pre-processing requirements have been met), the National Visa Center (NVC) queues the beneficiary for a visa interview. The NVC will send the applicant a packet with the visa interview appointment, information, the application forms and a list of the required application documents. It is important that visa applicants submit documentary requirements to NVC to be documentarily qualified for the visa interview, otherwise they will be found ineligible for visa issuance and be asked to return to the Embassy for another appointment. The basic documents that an applicant must submit are:

1. PASSPORT valid for at least six (6) months.

2. DS-230 Parts I and II: Application for Immigrant Visa and Alien Registration Forms. These forms are sent to applicants along with their appointment letters. Each family member applying for an immigrant visa is required to complete these forms.

3. BIRTH CERTIFICATE. Copies must be issued by the National Statistics Office (NSO) and printed on NSO security paper. Copies are needed for beneficiaries, derivative family members and Philippine-born petitioners. You may call the NSO Information Center at 02-737-1111 or visit their e-census webpage to inquire about how to secure a birth certificate.

4. NBI CLEARANCE. Applicants aged 16 years and older must have a valid Record Clearance for Travel Abroad Purposes from the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI). An official letter of explanation from the NBI is required for any notation of “No criminal record”, No pending criminal case” or “With derogatory record.” NBI is located along Taft Avenue in Manila. For immigration purposes, an NBI clearance is considered valid only for a year from the date it is issued.

5. POLICE CERTIFICATES. A police certificate is required from a country in which the applicant lived for more than one year (six months if you are applying for a K visa) after turning 16 years old. Information on how to secure police certificates from countries where these are available may be obtained by contacting U.S. Embassy Manila’s Immigrant Visa Branch, or an Embassy/Consulate of the country from which the Police certificate is required.
The State Department's Visa Office offers online information on availability of country documents including police certificates through its Country Document Finder. Click on the letter that begins the country name, select the country and scroll down to "Documents".

6. MARRIAGE CERTIFICATE. If married in the Philippines, a copy of the marriage certificate issued by the National Statistics Office and printed on NSO security paper should be submitted.

7. PROOF OF TERMINATION OF A PRIOR MARRIAGE. As applicable, official documents that prove all prior marriages have been legally terminated must be presented. This may be an annulment decree or a copy of a death certificate issued by NSO and printed on NSO security paper, a foreign divorce decree, or foreign death certificate whichever is applicable.

8. CERTIFICATE OF NO MARRIAGE RECORD (CENOMAR) - If never married, a Certificate of No Marriage Record (CENOMAR) issued by the National Statistics Office (NSO) and printed on NSO security paper should be submitted. You may call the NSO Information Center at 02-737-1111 or visit the NSO webpage at https://www.ecensus.com.ph/Secure/frmIndex.asp to secure a CENOMAR (Singleness).

9. SUPPORTING EVIDENCE OF IDENTITY AND/OR RELATIONSHIP. Applicants should be prepared to submit documents that further establish their identity and/or their relationship with the petitioner or the principal applicant. Personal photographs with family members together, taken over a period of time may help to establish the existence of a relationship. Personal correspondence, home telephone records, bank records, proof of joint property ownership and/or joint financial obligations, original baptismal records, medical record and adoption decrees are often useful.

10. EVIDENCE OF FINANCIAL SUPPORT

* Form I-864 Affidavit of Support (AOS). The I-864 AOS is required for visa applicants in all family-sponsored categories (IR and F) and certain E visa categories. The I-864 AOS is NOW VALID INDEFINITELY ONCE IT HAS BEEN SIGNED AND NOTARIZED (this is a change from the previous requirement of being good for one year only). In other words, applicants will no longer need to submit a new I-864 AOS or tax forms simply due to long processing delays between the date of the signature and notarization of the I-864 AOS and the date of the interview.

Additionally, petitioners (or cosponsors, if needed) filing an I-864 AOS are required to submit ONLY ONE YEAR'S TAX RETURN, CURRENT AS OF THE DATE THE SUBMITTED I-864 WAS NOTARIZED (this is a change from the previous requirement of submitting tax returns from the three most recent tax years).

The actual signed and notarized I-864 AOS must be an original copy. However, faxed copies of tax returns are acceptable.

Click here to read more about the required I-864 Affidavit of Support (NOTE: THE RECENT CHANGES IN I-864 AOS REQUIREMENTS ARE IN THE PROCESS OF BEING UPDATED ON THE MAIN U.S. DEPARTMENT OF STATE WEBSITE)

* Form I-134 Affidavit of Support.
* The I-134 Affidavit of Support is required for returning residents (SB-1), fiancé(e)s or spouses of U.S. citizens (K1, K3), children of K1 and K3 applicants, spouses and children of LPRs, applicants with special immigrant status, and follow-to-join derivative family members of employment-based (E) applicants. A copy of the sponsor's most recent Federal income tax return (Form 1040) should accompany the I-134. Fax copies of the ITR are acceptable.

10. VISA PHOTOGRAPHS. Two (2) colored photographs printed according to specifications, provided in the visa application packet.

Employment-based applicants require the following additional documents:

* Official Job Offer with the salary stated from the potential U.S. employer
* Visa Screen Certificate (for nurses and physical therapists)
* Old and current professional identification cards

* Any document not in English must be accompanied by an English translation. A competent translator must certify the translations.

* Consular officers may require additional documentation to adjudicate your application.

* Consular officers may ask to see originals of documents. The applicant may submit a photocopy of a document along with the visa application but should bring the original document for the officer’s inspection.

From http://manila.usembassy.gov/wwwh3217.html

Personal Note:
If you are a nurse with an agency or recruiter, most of these requirements might have already been submitted by your agency or recruiter (DS-230, NBI and Police Clearance, Birth Certificates). Please refer to your Packet 4 instructions regarding the needed documents you have yet to present during your interview. As always, it is safe practice to bring all originals in your possession, and at least 1 photocopy of each document.

The CENOMAR requirement for single applicants might or might not be asked of you during the interview, but then again, since it is listed as one of the requirements, it is still safe practice to secure one when you can. I believe this is most pertinent only for those applying for fiance visas (but then again I might be wrong). For single nurse applicants, it will not hurt (or cost) that much to secure a CENOMAR from NSO. Regular processing time can take up to 10 working days and will cost PhP180 per copy on security paper. And when you secure a CENOMAR, or any other NSO document for that matter, please double check that it has documentary stamps. Do not purchase these documentary stamps outside NSO, as there is a likely chance you'll get fake stamps.

Good luck to all applicants with a scheduled interview.

Alzheimer's Vaccine Shows Promise

2006-06-12T21:43:00.000-07:00

An experimental vaccine is showing promise against Alzheimer's disease, reducing brain deposits that are blamed for the disorder.

The deposits have been cut by between 15.5 percent and 38.5 percent in mice, with no major side effects, researchers said Monday in the online edition of Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.

Tests of the DNA-based vaccine are under way in monkeys, and if those are successful, testing in people could begin, perhaps within three years, said lead researcher Yoh Matsumoto of the Tokyo Metropolitan Institute for Neuroscience in Japa

Forbes.com: Alzheimer's Vaccine Shows Promise

CGFNS Announces Policy Changes For Length Of Time Applications May Remain Open, Time Limit For Receipt Of Payment, And Refunds

2006-06-09T17:05:00.000-07:00

Effective May 1, 2006, applicants applying for the CGFNS Certification Program, Credentials Evaluation Service and VisaScreen™ will be given 12 months to meet the requirements of each program. Orders for these three services that have not resulted in the rostering of an applicant to take the Qualifying Exam for the Certification Program, that have not resulted in the issuing of a Credentials Evaluation Service report, or that have not resulted in the issuing of a VisaScreen within 12 months of the application date will be closed.

**Once an order is closed, an applicant can re-apply and pay a second year re-application fee. Re-application orders will remain open for 12 months starting from the date the re-application order is placed. A re-application order cannot be placed until the previous order has been closed.
In addition, CGFNS now requires payment in full within 60 days of application date. Applications received without a payment will be deleted if full payment is not received within 60 days of application date. The applicant will have to fill out a new application and submit the appropriate full price to place a new order.

Finally, CGFNS has instituted a "no refund" policy for its Certification Program, Credentials Evaluation Service and VisaScreen™. Individual consideration will be given on a case-by-case basis if a refund is necessary due to a CGFNS error.

Track your visa shipment with Delbros (PH)

2006-06-07T03:37:00.000-07:00

Delbros is the official courier for the U.S. Embassy in Manila. You can reach their website at http://www.delbros.com. At the index page, you will see a small tracking box at the lower left of the page. Just type in your tracking number if you have pending visa applications waiting to be shipped. For Metro Manila clients, Delbros is committed to deliver your visa within 1-2 working days upon release from the Embassy. Provincial clients can expect a 5-7 days delivery time. Delbros will notify the applicant about the status of his visa, but this may actually not be current info. The fastest way to check for the latest info about your pending visa shipment is through their website, where the info is updated real-time. For applicants, the tracking number is usually your passport number. You could also send messages to the DELBROS TEXT HOTLINE to facilitate your inquiries regarding the status of your Visa or you could read some of our FAQ's for clarifications. Please follow this format before sending your inquiry to the DELBROS TEXT HOTLINE: Type " " then send to +639176221949 For Example "MNL00235120301 status " then send to +639176221949 Your Visa's tracking number is located on the upper left-hand corner of your DELBROS Official Receipt. Delbros Iloilo City Distribution Center: +63 (33) 3372243

U.S. Embassy (New Delhi) Announces New System For Immigrant Visa Applicants

2006-05-05T18:37:00.000-07:00

Press Releases 2006
U.S. Embassy Announces New System For Immigrant Visa Applicants
May 4, 2006

JALANDHAR -- The U.S. Embassy is pleased to announce an agreement with VFS that will provide better services to immigrant visa applicants. VFS is the private Indian company that manages the Non-Immigrant Visa appointment system for the U.S. Embassy and its consulates in India.

The new system will allow immigrant visa applicants to turn in required documents at three convenient VFS locations in Jalandhar, Chandigarh and New Delhi prior to the date of their visa interview. Beginning May 1, 2006, immigrant visa applicants must appear at the U.S. Embassy only on the day of their interview. In addition, the new VFS agreement will expedite immigrant visa processing procedures on the day of an applicant's interview.

Under the new system, all immigrant visa applicants scheduled for interview on or after May 1, 2006, should submit their completed Packet-4, "Information for Immigrant Visa Applicants," documents at their nearest VFS office (list of offices given below). The documents along with a photocopy of each applicant's passport must be submitted at a VFS office no earlier than 15 working days and no less than 10 days prior to the scheduled interview date. VFS will provide a receipt for all documents left at its offices and place a bar code sticker on the original passport. The fee for this service is Rs. 337/- for each applicant.

When the visa is issued, it is sent back to the applicant via courier. If additional documents and items are requested at the time of an immigrant visa applicant's interview, together with each applicant's passport, all documentation and items must be submitted to a VFS office. The fee for this service is Rs. 337/- for each applicant. Applicants should not submit documents piecemeal, but must submit all requested items at the same time.

If the Embassy requires additional information from an applicant with regard to the applicant's pending immigrant visa application, a courier will deliver the request. Payment of a new fee may be required.

Read the Press Release

December 2005 Phillipine Nurses Licensure Examination Results

2006-02-01T04:46:00.000-08:00

December 2005 Phillipine Nurses Licensure Examination Results

The Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) announces that 13,108 out of 24,287 passed the Nurse Licensure Examination given by the Board of Nursing in the cities of Manila, Baguio, Cagayan de Oro, Cebu, Davao, Iloilo, Legazpi, Lucena,Tacloban, Tuguegarao and Zamboanga this December 2005.

The results of examination with respect to Six hundred four (604) examinees were withheld pending final determination of their liabilities under the rules and regulations governing licensure examinations.

The members of the Board of Nursing are Eufemia F. Octaviano, Chairperson;Remedios L. Fernandez, Letty G. Kuan and Anesia B. Dionisio, Members.The results were released in eleven (11) working days from the last day ofexamination.

Download the exam results: December 2005 Nursing Licensure Exam Results*
*PDF format. Requires Acrobat or any PDF Reader.