Visa Overstays Penalties Act

Visa Overstays Penalties Act

This bill increases the civil penalties for unlawful entry into the United States and establishes criminal penalties for overstaying a visa.

A non-U.S. national (alien under federal law) apprehended while unlawfully entering the United States shall be subject to a fine of at least $500 and up to $1,000 (currently at least $50 and up to $250).

If an individual overstays a visa (or otherwise fails to comply with the conditions of a visa) for 10 days or more, on first offense the individual shall be subject to fines or imprisonment for up to six months, or both. For subsequent violations, the individual shall be subject to fines or imprisonment of up to two years, or both.

Bill 118 hr 2436, also known as the Visa Overstays Penalties Act, is a piece of legislation currently being considered by the US Congress. The main purpose of this bill is to address the issue of individuals who overstay their visas in the United States.

The bill proposes several key measures to combat visa overstays. First, it would increase penalties for individuals who overstay their visas, including fines and potential deportation. Additionally, the bill would require the Department of Homeland Security to implement a system to track visa overstays more effectively.

Furthermore, the Visa Overstays Penalties Act would require the Department of Homeland Security to report annually to Congress on the number of visa overstays and the actions taken to address this issue. This transparency is intended to hold the government accountable for enforcing visa regulations. Overall, the Visa Overstays Penalties Act aims to strengthen enforcement measures against visa overstays and improve tracking and reporting of these incidents. Supporters of the bill argue that it is necessary to protect national security and ensure that individuals comply with visa regulations. Critics, however, may raise concerns about potential negative impacts on immigrants and the need for a more comprehensive approach to immigration reform.