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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.
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Additional Information
Print number: 118_S_5247
Sponsor: Sen. Murphy, Christopher [D-CT]
Process start date: 2024-09-25
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OFFICIAL LEGAL TITLE

Witness Assistance and Criminal Accountability Act

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is the official ID of this bill?

The official print number for this legislation is 118_S_5247.

Which chamber initiated this legislation?

This legislation was initiated in the Senate.

When did the legislative process begin?

The process officially started on 2024-09-25.

What are the main provisions?

Key points include:

  • 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.
What is the specific legal status?

The current status is Expired.

Where can I read the full text of this legislation?

The full official text is available at: View full text

Who is the primary sponsor?

The primary sponsor is Sen. Murphy, Christopher [D-CT].

What is the latest detailed status?

The latest detailed status is: Introduced in Senate

Is this summary verified?

Yes. This content was analyzed by AI and verified by the Lustra Judge System on 2025-12-26.

CATEGORIES

Migration Courts and Law Security