U.S. Visitor and Immigrant Status Indicator Technology (US-VISIT) Program
Abstract
Congress first mandated that the former Immigration and Naturalization Service (INS) implement an automated entry and exit data system that would track the arrival and departure of every alien in 110 of the Illegal Immigration Reform and Immigrant Responsibility Act of 1996 (IIRIRA). The objective was, in part, to develop a mechanism that would be able to track nonimmigrants who overstayed their visas as part of a broader emphasis on immigration control. Following the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks there was a shift in priority for implementing the system. While the tracking of nonimmigrants who overstayed their visas remained an important goal, border security has become the paramount concern. Legislation enacted from 1997 to 2000 changed the scope and delayed implementation of 110 of IIRIRA. For example, the INS Data Management Improvement Act rewrote 110 to require the development of a system using data currently collected with no new documentary requirements. The Visa Waiver Permanent Program Act of 2000 required the development and implementation of a fully automated entry and exit control system covering all aliens who enter the United States under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) at airports and seaports.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Feb 23, 2005
- Accession Number
- ADA453595
Entities
People
- Lisa M. Seghetti
- Stephen R. Vina
Organizations
- Library of Congress