Public Description:
The bill would authorize the granting of “special immigrant” status for 500 Afghanis or Iraqis working as translators, interpreters, or in any other capacity with Federal agencies in Iraq and Afghanistan annually (current limit is 50 and only translators working with U.S. Armed Forces are eligible) – beginning with fiscal year 2007 and sunsetting three years following enactment (pending petitions for “special immigrant” status upon sunset could be approved) – and would authorize DHS to increase that limit, provided the agency notifies Congress; and would exempt these “special immigrants” from employment-based immigration caps, allow them “special immigrants” to apply for refugee assistance, and authorize them to adjust to lawful permanent resident status.
To amend the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2006 to expand the provision of special immigrant status for certain aliens, including translators or interpreters, serving with Federal agencies in Iraq and Afghanistan.
