Bowling Green Today

U.S. Senator Rand Paul (R-KY) and Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) have reintroduced the Temporary Family Visitation Act (TFVA) in an effort to establish a new B-3 nonimmigrant category that would allow U.S. citizens and permanent residents to petition for temporary visas for their family members. Currently, family members can only apply for B2 visas to visit their relatives.

The TFVA aims to provide a direct path for families to temporarily reunite for important family events such as weddings, birthdays, graduations, funerals, and holidays. By amending the Immigration and Nationality Act, the bill would create a separate nonimmigrant classification under the B visa category for family members of U.S. citizens and permanent residents who are residents of countries not included in the Visa Waiver Program. This classification would be valid for a duration of 90 days.

Dr. Rand Paul explains the importance of this legislation, 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 emphasizes the significance 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 requirements to prevent visa overstays and provide financial assurance to the U.S. Government. Each petitioner is required to sign an affidavit of financial support, ensuring that they can financially support their visiting family member. Additionally, each applicant must purchase travel medical insurance for the duration of their stay.

By establishing the TFVA, the senators aim to promote U.S. national interests by supporting the principle of family reunion while strengthening the economy and reducing unintended immigrant visa applications.

For more information on the Temporary Family Visitation Act, please refer to the official document available on Senator Rand Paul's website.

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/