Bowling Green Today

WASHINGTON, D.C. - U.S. Senator Rand Paul (R-KY) and Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) have reintroduced the Temporary Family Visitation Act (TFVA), which aims to establish a new B-3 nonimmigrant category for temporary visas for family members of U.S. citizens and permanent residents. The current system only allows family members to apply for B2 visas to visit their relatives. However, there is no direct path for families to temporarily reunite for important family events like weddings, birthdays, graduations, funerals, and holidays.

If passed, the Temporary Family Visitation Act would amend the Immigration and Nationality Act to create a separate nonimmigrant classification under the B visa category. This would enable family members of U.S. citizens and permanent residents from countries not included in the Visa Waiver Program to visit for a duration of 90 days. The act not only supports the principle of family reunions but also strengthens the economy and reduces unintended immigrant visa applications.

Dr. Rand Paul expressed his support for the bill, stating, "The Temporary Family Visitation Act is a great step forward in allowing family members of U.S. citizens/permanent residents to responsibly visit the United States for memorable occasions such as weddings, births, and graduations. The legislation will strengthen our economy through indirect spending and has the support of a large coalition of groups who agree that it is time to allow family members to visit the United States under responsible enforcement mechanisms to ensure that applicants do not overstay their visa."

Senator Blumenthal also emphasized the importance of the bill, saying, "This bill is pretty simple: we want to make it easier for close family members to see their grandchildren baptized, their children married, or their nieces and nephews graduate from college. As we've learned, it's possible to celebrate these kinds of special occasions from afar, but it just isn't the same as being there in person. I'm glad to join bipartisan legislation to make it a little easier for families to mark life's big moments together."

The TFVA includes certain requirements to ensure responsible visa usage and reduce the likelihood of overstays. Each petitioner must sign an affidavit of financial support, and each applicant must purchase travel medical insurance for the duration of their stay. These measures discourage visa overstays and provide financial assurance to the U.S. Government.

The Temporary Family Visitation Act has the potential to bring families closer together and allow them to participate in significant life events. By establishing a clear and direct path for temporary visits, the bill acknowledges the importance of family reunions while also considering national interests and the economy.

Click this link to access more information: https://www.paul.senate.gov/dr-rand-paul-and-senator-richard-blumenthal-reintroduce-the-temporary-family-visitation-act/