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Virgin Islands Visa Waiver Act of 2025
2/10/2025, 8:47 PM
Summary of Bill HR 362
Bill 119 HR 362, also known as the Virgin Islands Visa Waiver Program Act, is a piece of legislation introduced in the US Congress. The purpose of this bill is to establish a visa waiver program specifically for the Virgin Islands, allowing citizens of certain countries to travel to the Virgin Islands for tourism or business purposes without obtaining a visa.
The bill outlines the eligibility criteria for countries to participate in the visa waiver program, including requirements such as low rates of visa overstays and a commitment to sharing information with US authorities. It also establishes a process for the Department of Homeland Security to review and approve countries for participation in the program.
Proponents of the bill argue that the visa waiver program will boost tourism and economic growth in the Virgin Islands by making it easier for travelers to visit. They also believe that it will strengthen the relationship between the US and participating countries. Opponents of the bill raise concerns about potential security risks associated with allowing visa-free travel to the Virgin Islands. They argue that the program could make it easier for individuals with malicious intent to enter the US through the Virgin Islands. Overall, Bill 119 HR 362 aims to streamline travel to the Virgin Islands for eligible visitors while balancing security considerations. It is currently being debated in Congress, with supporters and opponents presenting their arguments for and against the legislation.
The bill outlines the eligibility criteria for countries to participate in the visa waiver program, including requirements such as low rates of visa overstays and a commitment to sharing information with US authorities. It also establishes a process for the Department of Homeland Security to review and approve countries for participation in the program.
Proponents of the bill argue that the visa waiver program will boost tourism and economic growth in the Virgin Islands by making it easier for travelers to visit. They also believe that it will strengthen the relationship between the US and participating countries. Opponents of the bill raise concerns about potential security risks associated with allowing visa-free travel to the Virgin Islands. They argue that the program could make it easier for individuals with malicious intent to enter the US through the Virgin Islands. Overall, Bill 119 HR 362 aims to streamline travel to the Virgin Islands for eligible visitors while balancing security considerations. It is currently being debated in Congress, with supporters and opponents presenting their arguments for and against the legislation.
Congressional Summary of HR 362
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.
Read the Full Bill
Current Status of Bill HR 362
Bill HR 362 is currently in the status of Bill Introduced since January 13, 2025. Bill HR 362 was introduced during Congress 119 and was introduced to the House on January 13, 2025. Bill HR 362's most recent activity was Referred to the House Committee on the Judiciary. as of January 13, 2025
Bipartisan Support of Bill HR 362
Total Number of Sponsors
3Democrat Sponsors
3Republican Sponsors
0Unaffiliated Sponsors
0Total Number of Cosponsors
0Democrat Cosponsors
0Republican Cosponsors
0Unaffiliated Cosponsors
0Policy Area and Potential Impact of Bill HR 362
Primary Policy Focus
ImmigrationAlternate Title(s) of Bill HR 362
To establish the Virgin Islands visa waiver program.
To establish the Virgin Islands visa waiver program.
Comments
Sponsors and Cosponsors of HR 362
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