Us Congress House Bill HB362

Us Congress 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/13/25
• Refer: 1/13/25

Caption

Virgin Islands Visa Waiver Act of 2025 This bill authorizes the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to establish a visa waiver program for nationals of certain countries to enter the U.S. Virgin Islands.Specifically, the bill expands an existing program that authorizes nonimmigrant visa waivers for nationals of certain countries to enter Guam or the Northern Mariana Islands to also authorize waivers for entry to the U.S. Virgin Islands. Under this program, DHS may provide a waiver admitting a nonimmigrant visitor for up to 45 days if the waiver does not represent a threat to the welfare, safety, or security of the United States or its territories or commonwealths.

Impact

The introduction of this visa waiver program may lead to increased visitor numbers and spending in the Virgin Islands, potentially benefiting local businesses and the overall economy. However, the bill also emphasizes that the waiver should not compromise the safety and security of the United States, allowing the Secretary of Homeland Security to suspend admissions from any country deemed a threat to national security or the integrity of the immigration system. Additionally, regulations will ensure that the costs associated with administering the program are covered by processing fees for travelers.

Summary

House Bill 362, known as the Virgin Islands Visa Waiver Act of 2025, aims to establish a visa waiver program for the Virgin Islands, expanding similar waivers currently available for Guam and the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands. The bill proposes that visitors from specific countries may enter the Virgin Islands for up to 45 days without a visa, subject to the determination of adequate arrival and departure control systems by the Secretary of Homeland Security. This is intended to boost tourism and economic development in the Virgin Islands by making it easier for travelers from participating countries to visit.

Contention

There are notable concerns surrounding the bill, particularly regarding national security and the potential for abuse of the visa waiver system. Opponents may voice fears about inadequate monitoring of travelers and the possibility of individuals overstaying their visas, which could lead to illegal immigration. Furthermore, stakeholders will be observing the criteria used by the Department of Homeland Security when determining which countries can participate, as this may spark debate on geopolitical relationships and fairness in immigration policy.

Congress_id

119-HR-362

Policy_area

Immigration

Introduced_date

2025-01-13