H.R.362 - Virgin Islands Visa Waiver Act of 2025 (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R. 362, the Virgin Islands Visa Waiver Act of 2025, aims to establish a visa waiver program for the Virgin Islands, similar to the existing program for Guam and the Northern Mariana Islands. This bill amends Section 212(l) of the Immigration and Nationality Act to allow the Secretary of Homeland Security to waive visa requirements for certain visitors entering the Virgin Islands for up to 45 days. The bill requires consultation with the Secretaries of Interior and State, as well as the Governor of the Virgin Islands, to ensure adequate arrival and departure control systems are in place and that the waiver does not pose a threat to U.S. security.
Expected Effects
The primary effect of this bill would be to increase tourism and business travel to the Virgin Islands by simplifying the entry process for visitors from certain countries. This could lead to economic benefits for the islands, but also requires careful monitoring to prevent overstays and potential security risks. Regulations will be promulgated within a year to list eligible countries, prioritizing Caribbean Community members, while considering security concerns.
Potential Benefits
- Increased tourism and economic activity in the Virgin Islands.
- Simplified travel process for visitors from eligible countries.
- Potential for stronger ties with Caribbean Community member states.
- Administrative processing fees will help recover the costs of the program.
- Flexibility for the Secretary of Homeland Security to suspend the program for specific countries if risks arise.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for increased overstays and illegal immigration.
- Risk of fraud and abuse of the nonimmigrant visa system.
- Possible strain on Virgin Islands' infrastructure and resources.
- Administrative burden for the Department of Homeland Security.
- Potential security risks if the program is not carefully managed.
Constitutional Alignment
This bill appears to align with the Constitution, particularly Article I, Section 8, which grants Congress the power to regulate commerce with foreign nations and to establish uniform rules of naturalization. The bill delegates authority to the Secretary of Homeland Security to implement the visa waiver program, which is a common practice and generally permissible under the Necessary and Proper Clause (Article I, Section 8, Clause 18). The bill does not appear to infringe on any individual rights or liberties protected by the Constitution or its amendments.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).