Relatives of green card holders are let to visit US

Washington, March 22: A legislation seeking to allow relatives of green card-holders, including wives and children, to visit the United States on a tourist visa (temporary basis) has been introduced in the House of Representatives.

Green card-holders, also referred to as ''permanent resident aliens'', are individuals who have come to the country legally and are gainfully employed. However, their families (wives or children) cannot come to the country until a green card is issued, which often takes years to become effective.

The Bill was introduced by Democratic Congressman Frank Pallone Jr of New Jersey yesterday and is known as the 'Spousal Reunification Act.' Introducing the Bill, Mr Pallone said, '' This legislation fixes a harsh provision in our current immigration system that keeps permanent resident aliens separated from their spouses and children, often for periods of several years. This Bill would make it easier for family members to come to the US on a temporary basis, for events such as holidays andn weddings and for those children who wish to attend school'', Mr Pallone said.

Notably, Mr Pallone's constituency of New Jersey constitutes immigrants from India and they have very often petitioned him to bring to notice this anomaly in immigration laws.

Mr Pallone cited his legislation 'necessary' as current immigration laws prohibit a relative waiting for a green card, to make temporary visits for holidays or other events. They often await their turn in being sanctioned a green card, which is a long waiting period in India.

The lawmaker noted that other types of legal immigrants, like H1B's are able to 'sponsor' or bring along family members on their visa during their time in the US.

A heavy backlog of green card applicants have made the waiting period for legal permanent residency for relatives last as long as five years. During this time period, these applicants cannot visit the US while they wait for approval of their application.

Under Mr Pallone's legislation, family members (of green holders) could apply for temporary visas, such as for visitor status, while pending clearance of their applications.

UNI