USA Immigration News

U.S. Congress Members Push for More Visas for Haitians

U.S. Congress members are pushing the Obama administration to fast-track visas for Haitian citizens who have already had their petitions approved and to include Haiti in the H-2A and H-2B visa programs for low-skilled, temporary immigrants.

It is estimated that some 100,000 petitions for Haitian citizens have been approved and are on a waiting list to have their visa issued, among them are more than 15,000 spouses and children of U.S. citizens. However, a cap on the number of U.S. visas granted each year means it will take a decade for these visas to be issued.

Eight members of Florida's congressional delegation addressed this problem in a December 22 letter to Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton and Homeland Security Secretary Janet Napolitano asking for visas for Haitians to be fast-tracked.

"As a new Haitian government takes shape, and as the country still grapples with cholera and post-earthquake reconstruction, additional help is needed." the letter says.

Besides fast-tracking visa grants, Florida representatives have also requested the extension of certain low-skilled, temporary work visas to include Haitian nationals. Haiti is not currently included in the H-2A and H-2B visa programs that allow U.S. employers to bring foreign nationals into the country for temporary jobs.

"Low-skilled, temporary employment seems to be one way in which a limited number of Haitians may come to the United States, reunite with their families, help build the U.S. economy, and, most importantly, assist Haiti in its reconstruction through repatriated skills and capital.", the Florida representatives indicated.

If you are interested in Visas to the USA, contact Migration Expert for information and advice on which visa is best suited to you. You can also try our visa eligibility assessment to see if you are eligible to apply for a visa to the United States of America.