The ImmiGreat Podcast by Wilner & O'Reilly

Wilner & O'Reilly, APLC

Hosted by Richard Wilner and brought to you by the immigration law experts at Wilner & O’Reilly, this podcast is dedicated to the dreamers, the doers, and the resilient souls who redefine what it means to be American.What to Expect:- Trending Topics: Stay up-to-date with the latest shifts in immigration policy and law.- Informational Segments: Deep dives into the "how-tos" and "must-knows" of navigating the U.S. legal system.- Powerful Guest Stories: Over the years, Richard has walked alongside countless individuals who arrived with nothing but grit and a refusal to fail. Subscribe to join the conversation and gain a clearer perspective on the legal and human sides of immigration.Connect With UsWebsite: https://www.wilneroreilly.com/Consultations: https://calendly.com/richardmwilnerimmigrationlawyer/initial-consultation-richardSocial Media: https://linktr.ee/wilneroreilly?utm_source=ig&utm_medium=social&utm_content=link_in_bio&fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAc3J0YwZhcHBfaWQMMjU2MjgxMDQwNTU4AAGn2gsjEU2Bs13GtgXwAyDIppxj4sbcqXPiSP0F5mFj74DXH2VzchCYviXZDXA_aem_6R2EIgIp8-msN3KzEK8i2Q

  1. 2d ago

    BREAKING: F-1 Student Visa Rules Just Changed | What International Students Must Know

    In this episode of the ImmiGreat Podcast, Richard Wilner breaks down a major policy shift from the Department of Homeland Security that affects F-1 students, J-1 exchange visitors, and I visa holders (foreign media representatives). On July 17, 2026, DHS ended nearly 50 years of precedent (since 1978) by eliminating "duration of status" for these visa categories. Instead of being admitted for as long as they maintain academic progress, students and exchange visitors are now capped at a fixed four-year period, or the length of their specific program, whichever is shorter. In this episode, we cover: What "duration of status" was, and why DHS just ended itThe new 4-year admission cap for F-1, J-1, and I visasHow the I-94, visa stamp, and I-20 actually control your legal statusThe grace period shrinking from 60 days to 30 daysHow the clock resets with each new academic level (high school → college, college → grad school)Why international student-athletes face unique risk — redshirting, medical/Olympic exceptions, and the transfer portal What PhD candidates and other long-program students need to do to extend their stayThe new biometrics and re-vetting process tied to extension requestsKey dates: the rule isn't effective until September 15, 2026, and only applies going forward — current students already here won't be automatically switched to the fixed term Richard's advice: pay attention, plan appropriately, and don't wait until the deadline is close. There's no substitute for knowing exactly how this rule applies to your situation. For a consultation on your immigration case, visit https://www.wilneroreilly.com #F1Visa #J1Visa #StudentVisa #ImmigrationLaw #DHS #USCIS DISCLAIMER: This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Every immigration case is unique — consult a licensed immigration attorney about your specific situation.

    BREAKING: F-1 Student Visa Rules Just Changed | What International Students Must Know

  2. Jul 8

    Renato "Babalu" Sobral: From Brazilian Wrestling Champion to UFC Fighter to American Citizen

    On this episode, Richard M. Wilner, Board Certified Specialist in Immigration Law by the State Bar of California and Shareholder of Wilner & O'Reilly, sits down with Renato "Babalu" Sobral, former Brazilian wrestling champion, Strikeforce Light Heavyweight Champion, two-time UFC title challenger, and owner of Babalu's Iron Gym in Cerritos, CA. Babalu shares his journey from wrestling in Brazil at age nine to fighting some of MMA's biggest names, and how he built a life in America — from his P-1 athlete visa, to earning a green card through extraordinary ability, to becoming a U.S. citizen. Richard and Babalu talk about the rivalry between Luta Livre and Jiu-Jitsu in Brazil, his transition from fighter to business owner and teacher, raising two daughters between two cultures, the immigrant mindset, and his advice for anyone planning their own path to America. Topics covered: Babalu's wrestling roots in BrazilCrossing over from Luta Livre to Jiu-JitsuFighting in the UFC and StrikeforceGetting a P-1 visa and green card through extraordinary abilityBecoming a U.S. citizenRaising his daughters between Brazilian and American cultureTransitioning from fighter to gym owner at Babalu's Iron GymTeaching kids confidence through martial artsAdvice for immigrants planning their move to the U.S. 🔗 Follow Renato "Babalu" Sobral:  https://www.instagram.com/babalusirongym/ 🔗 Follow Babalu's Iron Gym: https://www.instagram.com/babalubjj/ Have immigration questions? Contact us! https://www.wilneroreilly.com/contact/ The ImmiGreat Podcast, hosted by Richard Wilner, provides practical, real-world insight into complex immigration topics affecting individuals, families, and employers. Each episode is designed to help listeners better understand their options and next steps.

    Renato "Babalu" Sobral: From Brazilian Wrestling Champion to UFC Fighter to American Citizen

  3. Jul 1

    Adjustment of Status "Extraordinary Relief" Memo Explained

    Attorney Richard Wilner breaks down the May 21st USCIS memorandum (PM 602-0199) that's caused confusion and panic in the immigration community regarding adjustment of status. Does this memo mean you have to leave the U.S. to get your green card? Is adjustment of status now "extraordinary relief" instead of a normal process? Richard clears up the misinformation and explains what the law actually says. In this episode, we cover: - What adjustment of status is and how it works - The truth behind the "extraordinary relief" language in the memo - Why adjustment of status has always been discretionary — not new - How immigration officers use discretion (and its limits) - What to expect in interviews post-memo - Unlawful employment forgiveness for immediate relatives - Why preparation matters more than ever Adjustment of status remains a valid path to a green card. The law hasn't changed — but agency practices have shifted, and preparation is key. For a consultation on your immigration case, visit https://www.wilneroreilly.com #AdjustmentOfStatus #ImmigrationLaw #GreenCard #USCIS #ImmigrationAttorney DISCLAIMER: This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Every immigration case is unique — consult a licensed immigration attorney about your specific situation.

    Adjustment of Status "Extraordinary Relief" Memo Explained

  4. Jun 24

    World Cup & US Immigration Law: Visas, Bans, and Border Denials Explained

    The World Cup is here and so are some fascinating immigration stories! In this episode, Immigration Attorney and Board Certified Specialist of the State Bar of California, Richard Wilner, breaks down the real-world US immigration issues playing out on the world's biggest soccer stage. Topics covered: How the US expanded visitor visas for World Cup players and referees (and why most players don't have athlete visas)The Somali referee Omar Tons — why a valid visa didn't guarantee entry into the USThe difference between a visa (Dept. of State) and admission (Customs & Border Protection)A Ghana player denied entry into Canada due to pending UK criminal charges — and why the same charges wouldn't bar him from the USWhy Canada's border rules are stricter than the US (including DUI convictions)What happens to your visa if you're arrested for a DUI while already in the USArgentina's child support notifications to FIFA and the US government — and what that means for travelersFor more information on US immigration law, visit: www.wilneroreilly.com

    World Cup & US Immigration Law: Visas, Bans, and Border Denials Explained

  5. May 26

    From Ecuador to the UFC: ChIto Vera on Family, Immigration & the Immigrant Mentality

    In Episode 14 of the ImmiGreat Podcast, Richard Wilner sits down with Chito Vera, UFC Bantamweight contender, ranked in the UFC's top 10, and the fighter with the most finishes in UFC Bantamweight history. But this conversation isn't about the highlights or the submissions. It's about the story behind the fighter. Chito left Ecuador not because of a dream to become a professional athlete, but because his daughter needed a doctor who was in Los Angeles. What followed was one of the most honest and moving accounts of the immigrant experience you'll hear: sacrifice, uncertainty, longing, and ultimately, a family built in a new country the right way. In this episode, Chito and Richard discuss: 👉 Growing up in Chone, Ecuador 👉 Becoming a young father and husband, and the moment everything changed with his daughter Anna's diagnosis of Moebius Syndrome 👉 Leaving his family behind in Ecuador to train in the U.S. and the doubt that came with those lonely weekends 👉 How the UFC's P-1 athlete visa works 👉 Why his team made the switch from a P-1 to an O-1 visa for extraordinary ability  👉 Moving his entire family to California with $6,000, no social security, and no plan  👉 How he ultimately obtained his green card based on extraordinary ability as an athlete 👉 What permanent residency has meant for his family, his daughter's education and medical care, and his peace of mind 👉 The immigrant mentality  👉 Walking Paris Fashion Week, Stone Island campaigns, and how one organic relationship led to another 👉 What becoming a U.S. citizen would mean to him and why he's working toward it Chito's story is a reminder that doing things the right way is rarely the easiest way. But it is the way that lasts. Have immigration questions? Contact Wilner & O'Reilly: Website: www.wilneroreilly.com/contact Blog: www.wilneroreilly.com/blog The ImmiGreat Podcast, hosted by Richard Wilner, brings you real conversations about the real immigration experience from the legal process to the human story behind it. Each episode is designed to inform, inspire, and remind you that you are not alone in this journey.

    From Ecuador to the UFC: ChIto Vera on Family, Immigration & the Immigrant Mentality

  6. May 21

    Should You Apply for U.S. Citizenship Right Now?

    In Episode 13 of the ImmiGreat Podcast, Richard Wilner addresses one of the most common questions he receives right now: Is this the right time to apply for U.S. citizenship?  As a Founding Shareholder of Wilner & O'Reilly and a Board-Certified Specialist in Immigration and Nationality Law, Richard's answer is clear — if you're eligible, the answer is an absolute yes. In this episode, Richard walks through everything you need to know about the naturalization process, including: • Who qualifies for naturalization and when you can apply • The 5-year and 3-year paths to citizenship (including the 90-day early filing rule) • Physical presence requirements and what "continuous residence" actually means • Good moral character, English, and civics exam requirements • Step-by-step breakdown of the N-400 application process • What happens at your USCIS interview — and how to prepare • The Oath of Allegiance ceremony and what it means to walk out a U.S. citizen If you've built your life in the United States, met every requirement this country has asked of you, and earned the right to apply... don't let fear or uncertainty hold you back. Citizenship is the most powerful legal protection available to you as a permanent resident, and this episode explains exactly how to get there. Contact Wilner & O'Reilly: https://www.wilneroreilly.com/contact/ For more insights, visit our Immigration Blog: https://www.wilneroreilly.com/blog The ImmiGreat Podcast, hosted by Richard Wilner, provides practical, real-world insight into complex immigration topics affecting individuals, families, and employers. Each episode is designed to help listeners better understand their options and next steps.

    Should You Apply for U.S. Citizenship Right Now?

  7. May 14

    USCIS Is Delaying Your Application | Here's Why & What To Do

    On April 27, 2026, something significant happened that is impacting immigration applications across the country; and if you have a pending case, this is essential listening. In this episode, Richard Wilner, Board Certified by the State Bar of California as a Specialist in Immigration and Nationality Law and Founding Shareholder of Wilner & O'Reilly, breaks down the new USCIS vetting procedures tied to expanded FBI criminal database access and what it means for your pending application. Key Topics Covered in This Episode: What Changed on April 27, 2026: Why immigration lawyers across the country began receiving notifications about widespread adjudication delays.The FBI Database Connection: How Executive Order 12385 expanded the FBI's criminal history sharing with the Department of Homeland Security and what that means for your case.Who Is Affected: Naturalization, adjustment of status, and asylum applicants and the one exception to the new fingerprint re-vetting requirement.Your Rights Under the Law: How the Administrative Procedures Act protects applicants from unreasonable government delays.The Writ of Mandamus: The federal legal tool that can compel the government to act on your case and what it really takes to fight it today.A delay is not a denial. But waiting indefinitely is not your only option. As Richard Wilner explains, if your case is clean and the delay is unreasonable, you have rights and you have options. For more information or to discuss your case, visit us at www.wilneroreilly.com.

    USCIS Is Delaying Your Application | Here's Why & What To Do

  8. Apr 29

    From Brazil to Huntington Beach: How MMA Legend Rafael Cordeiro Built King's MMA

    In Episode 11 of the ImmiGreat Podcast, Richard Wilner sits down with Master Rafael Cordeiro — founder of King's MMA in Huntington Beach, three-time Brazilian Muay Thai champion, black belt in both Muay Thai and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, and the coach behind some of the biggest names in MMA, including Mike Tyson. But this episode isn't just about fighting. It's about what it really takes to build a life in America the right way. Rafael came to the United States on an O-1 visa, a classification reserved for individuals of extraordinary ability, and went on to complete one of the most demanding immigration pathways: the EB-1A Extraordinary Ability Green Card petition. Years later, he and his entire family became United States citizens. In this conversation, Rafael and Richard discuss: Growing up in Curitiba, Brazil, and training at the legendary Chute Boxe gym Traveling to Japan 52 times to compete in PRIDE FC The moment he fell in love with Huntington Beach and decided to bet everything on America How the O-1 visa works for athletes and coaches Starting from zero in the U.S. — no credit, no social security, no students Building King's MMA from the ground up during the 2008 financial crisisTraining world champions, including Fabricio Werdum, Chris Cyborg, and Mike Tyson What becoming a U.S. citizen meant to him and his family His advice for anyone dreaming of building a life in AmericaRafael's story is a powerful reminder that the American dream is still real, but it requires vision, discipline, and the courage to follow the process, even when it's hard. 🔗 Follow Rafael Cordeiro & King's MMA!  Have immigration questions? Contact us!  https://www.wilneroreilly.com/contact/  The ImmiGreat Podcast, hosted by Richard Wilner, provides practical, real-world insight into complex immigration topics affecting individuals, families, and employers. Each episode is designed to help listeners better understand their options and next steps.

    From Brazil to Huntington Beach: How MMA Legend Rafael Cordeiro Built King's MMA
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About

Hosted by Richard Wilner and brought to you by the immigration law experts at Wilner & O’Reilly, this podcast is dedicated to the dreamers, the doers, and the resilient souls who redefine what it means to be American.What to Expect:- Trending Topics: Stay up-to-date with the latest shifts in immigration policy and law.- Informational Segments: Deep dives into the "how-tos" and "must-knows" of navigating the U.S. legal system.- Powerful Guest Stories: Over the years, Richard has walked alongside countless individuals who arrived with nothing but grit and a refusal to fail. Subscribe to join the conversation and gain a clearer perspective on the legal and human sides of immigration.Connect With UsWebsite: https://www.wilneroreilly.com/Consultations: https://calendly.com/richardmwilnerimmigrationlawyer/initial-consultation-richardSocial Media: https://linktr.ee/wilneroreilly?utm_source=ig&utm_medium=social&utm_content=link_in_bio&fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAc3J0YwZhcHBfaWQMMjU2MjgxMDQwNTU4AAGn2gsjEU2Bs13GtgXwAyDIppxj4sbcqXPiSP0F5mFj74DXH2VzchCYviXZDXA_aem_6R2EIgIp8-msN3KzEK8i2Q

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