The McCain-Kennedy Bill: New Hope for Somali Immigrants in America

[Kulmiye]

The McCain-Kennedy bill has introduced major changes in the area of family-based sponsorships and unification by easing the allocation of the permanent resident visas, which, in turn, reduces the outrageously long waiting period under the current system. The Bill also removes the financial requirements for the sponsors who are required to fill out Affidavit of Support (Form I-864). Under the bill, the sponsor can support the immigrant at 100% of Federal Poverty Guidelines rather than the current 125 % Federal Poverty Guidelines. The bill would also expand the waiver for fraud or misrepresentation and make this waiver available to non-citizens who pay a $2,000 fine.

 

Reliable estimates suggest that there are thousands of Somalis in the US with legal problems in their documentation or legal status. Can the new Bill be the answer to this problems?

 

Main Features

 

Some of the main features of this Bill include:

 

I. Earned Legalization Program (H-5B Visa)

 

The Earned Legalization Program (H-5B) is a new program that would allow the undocumented immigrants in the US to participate in a new H-5B temporary visa program and, after six years, apply for permanent residency.

In order to become eligible for the H-5B Visa, the Bill requires the immigrant to:

A) Undergo criminal and security checks in order to eliminate the existence of criminal record or security concerns that would prevent him/her from legalizing.

B) Have sufficient understanding and study of English, US civics and history,

C) Have been engaged in an employment in the US on May 12, 2005 under a status considered “not legally presentâ€

D) Have complied with tax requirements

 

By: Prof. Abdul Wahid SheikhOsman

http://www.hiiraan.com/op/2006/apr/Abdul_Wahid_Osman.aspx

[rudy-Diiriye]

thanks brotha! this is something that we really need to check it out! thnx.

[Didi Kong]

Thanks.

[Kulmiye]

It's pleasure my friends!