Special Immigrant Visa Program for Iraqi Nationals Expires Sept. 30, 2013

On Sept. 30, 2013, authorization for the Special Immigrant Visa (SIV) Program for Iraqi nationals who worked for or on behalf of the United States government will expire.

The program was created by Section 1244 of Public Law 110-181, as amended by Public Law 110-242. It covers Iraqi nationals who—during the period between March 20, 2003, and the present—have been employed by or on behalf of the United States government in Iraq for a period of not less than one year. The expiration date does not apply to spouses and unmarried children who are following to join a principal applicant.

As announced at its inception, the Iraqi SIV program will expire on Sept. 30, 2013, at 11:59 p.m. EDT unless Congress extends the program. After Sept. 30,2013, USCIS will reject any Form I-360, Petition for Amerasian, Widow(er), or Special Immigrant, or Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status, filed by a principal applicant based on the Iraqi SIV Program. Beginning Oct. 1, 2013, USCIS will suspend processing of any pending Form I-360 or Form I-485 filed by a principal applicant based on the Iraqi SIV Program.

For questions related to SIV Program, please contact Bill Flynn.