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Expediting Afghan SIVs: New Rules and Family Protections

This act aims to speed up the special immigrant visa process for Afghans who assisted U.S. forces. It makes it easier for them and their families to resettle safely in the United States by introducing new rules for proving threats and extending protections to families of deceased applicants.
Key points
Easier proof of threat for Afghan visa applicants, requiring only a credible basis for concern, not actual experience of threat.
Expanded visa eligibility for Afghans working for the U.S. government through cooperative agreements or grants, if their work contributed to the U.S. mission.
Streamlined procedures by changing 'petition' to 'request' and eliminating some duplicative requirements.
Strengthened protections for surviving spouses and children, allowing them to continue the visa process after the principal applicant's death.
Increased the number of available visas by 8,000 for principal applicants, accelerating relocation.
Ensured that new rules do not diminish existing vetting and security screening processes.
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VOTING RESULTS
2021-07-22
96%
For 407
Against 16
Abstain 0
Full voting results open_in_new
Expired
Citizen Poll
No votes cast
Additional Information
Print number: 117_HR_3985
Sponsor: Rep. Crow, Jason [D-CO-6]
Process start date: 2021-06-17
Voting date: 2021-07-22
Meeting no: 1
Voting no: 218