The United States has long grappled with backlogs in green card applications, leading to lengthy wait times for individuals seeking permanent residency. In an effort to address this issue, a bipartisan bill known as the HR6542 Act, or the Immigration Visa Efficiency and Security Act of 2023, has been introduced in the U.S. House of Representatives. The bill aims to reduce backlogs and streamline the immigration process, particularly for employment-based and family-sponsored green cards.
Key Provisions of HR6542
- Phasing Out Per-Country Caps: The bill proposes to gradually phase out the existing seven per-country limit on employment-based green cards, ensuring that skilled workers from all nations have a fair chance of obtaining permanent residency.
- Increasing Family-Sponsored Visa Limits: To address the backlog of family-sponsored green card applications, the bill proposes to increase the seven per-country limit on family-sponsored visas to 15 per cent. This change would allow more family members to reunite with their loved ones in the United States.
- Recapturing Unused Visas: To further reduce backlogs, the bill would recapture unused green cards from previous years and make them available to eligible applicants.
- Streamlining Application Processes: The bill also seeks to streamline the application process by reducing paperwork, enhancing technological capabilities, and providing more efficient adjudication procedures.
Potential Impact of HR6542
If enacted, HR6542 has the potential to significantly reduce backlogs and expedite the green card process for many individuals. This would not only alleviate the frustration and uncertainty faced by immigrants but also benefit the U.S. economy by attracting and retaining skilled workers and fostering family unity.
Current Status of the Bill
HR6542 is currently in the legislative process and has gained bipartisan support. It remains to be seen whether the bill will pass both chambers of Congress and become law. However, its introduction represents a positive step towards addressing the long-standing issue of green card backlogs.
The HR6542 Act offers a promising approach to reducing green card backlogs and streamlining the immigration process. If enacted, the bill could have a significant impact on the lives of many immigrants and contribute to a more efficient and equitable immigration system in the United States.