FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
November 9, 2023
Contact: Press_Paul@paul.senate.gov, 202-224-4343
Dr. Rand Paul and Senator Richard Blumenthal Reintroduce the Temporary Family Visitation Act
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Yesterday, U.S. Senator Rand Paul (R-KY) and Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) reintroduced the Temporary Family Visitation Act (TFVA) that would establish a new B-3 nonimmigrant category allowing U.S. citizens and permanent residents to petition for their family members for temporary visas.
Under the current system, family members of U.S. citizens and permanent residents may only apply to visit their relatives through B2 visas. While facilitating family reunions is one of the main pillars of the U.S. immigration policy, the current immigration law lacks a direct path for families to temporarily reunite for family purposes such as weddings, birthdays, graduations, funerals, and holidays.
If enacted, the Temporary Family Visitation Act would amend the Immigration and Nationality Act and will establish a separate nonimmigrant classification under 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 for a duration of 90 days.
Additionally, TFVA promotes U.S. national interests by supporting the principle of family reunion while strengthening the economy and reducing unintended immigrant visa applications.
“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,” said Dr. Paul. “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.”
“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,” said Senator Blumenthal. “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.”
TFVA requires that:
- Each petitioner signs an affidavit of financial support.
- Each applicant must purchase travel medical insurance for the duration of their stay.
These requirements dissuade visa overstays by prohibiting the petitioner from using the TFVA if they had previously sponsored a relative who overstayed the 90-day period of authorized admission, it will also provide financial assurance to the U.S. Government.
You can read the Temporary Family Visitation Act, HERE.
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