US simplifies SIV application process for Afghan allies

KABUL (Pajhwok): The United States has unveiled plans to simplify the special immigrant visa (SIV) application process for Afghan allies, reports the Washington Times.

The Afghans, who assisted the US military campaign in their country, are looking for a special visa to live in America, expelling Homeland Security from the adjudication process.

The Afghans, who are now required to file their form with the State Department, are exempted from fill out a second form for Homeland Security.

The current processing time processing time, taking around two years, could be shortened by weeks as a result of the streamlining effort.

The newspaper quoted unnamed administration officials as saying that the change should reduce the burden on Afghan applicants.

One official opined that transitioning the adjudication of SIV petitions to one agency was in line with administration efforts to break down barriers and eliminate needless burdens.

Secretary of State Antony Blinken and DHS Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas said in a joint statement new applicants, beginning this week, would no longer need to file a separate petition for special immigrant status.

PAN Monitor/mud

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