New Visas for Crime Witnesses: Assisting Law Enforcement and Path to Residency.
This bill establishes a new nonimmigrant visa (W visa) for individuals who possess critical information about serious criminal activity and cooperate with law enforcement. The goal is to enhance crime fighting by offering witnesses protection, work authorization, and a path to permanent residency after three years of continuous presence and cooperation. This legislation indirectly supports public safety by facilitating criminal accountability.
Key points
Creation of the W visa for non-citizens whose information and presence are essential for federal, state, or local criminal investigations and prosecutions.
Principal witnesses and their immediate family (spouses, children, and parents for minor witnesses) receive temporary status and employment authorization.
After three years of continuous presence and continued cooperation, W visa holders may apply for Lawful Permanent Residence (Green Card).
The annual cap for principal W visas is 10,000; family members are exempt from this numerical limitation.
Status:
Expired
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