Bowling Green Today

WASHINGTON, D.C. - U.S. Senator Rand Paul and Senator Richard Blumenthal have reintroduced the Temporary Family Visitation Act (TFVA), a bill aimed at establishing a new visa category that would allow U.S. citizens and permanent residents to petition for their family members to obtain temporary visas. The current immigration system only permits family members to apply for B2 visas to visit their relatives. However, this process lacks a direct path for families to temporarily reunite for important family events such as weddings, birthdays, graduations, funerals, and holidays.

The TFVA, if enacted, would amend the Immigration and Nationality Act and create a separate nonimmigrant classification under the B visa category. This new category would cater specifically to family members of U.S. citizens and permanent residents who reside in countries not included in the Visa Waiver Program. The duration of stay for these family members would be limited to 90 days.

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 voiced his endorsement of the bill, emphasizing the importance of family members being able to participate in significant life events. He stated, "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."

In addition to facilitating family reunions, the TFVA also serves to promote U.S. national interests. By supporting the principle of family reunion, the bill aims to strengthen the economy and reduce unintended immigrant visa applications.

The TFVA includes two requirements for petitioners and applicants. Firstly, each petitioner must sign an affidavit of financial support. This ensures that there is financial assurance to the U.S. Government and also serves as a deterrent to visa overstays. Secondly, each applicant must purchase travel medical insurance for the duration of their stay, guaranteeing their well-being during their visit.

The reintroduction of the Temporary Family Visitation Act by Dr. Rand Paul and Senator Richard Blumenthal signifies a bipartisan effort to address the current shortcomings in the U.S. immigration system. By establishing a new visa category specifically for family members, the bill aims to provide a direct and responsible path for families to temporarily reunite for important life events.

To learn more, click on this link: https://www.paul.senate.gov/dr-rand-paul-and-senator-richard-blumenthal-reintroduce-the-temporary-family-visitation-act/