Special Immigrant Visas for Iraqis

The application process for Iraqi nationals seeking special immigrant visas is at a "high risk for fraud and abuse," according to a Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Inspector General report. The report found that because of pressure to quickly adjudicate Iraqi and Afghan visa cases, applicants received visas when they did not actually qualify for the program. Iraqi nationals may apply for special immigrant visas if they meet criteria including working for the US government for at least 12 months after March 20, 2003, and clearing a background check. A separate program allows Iraqi and Afghan translators who worked for the United States military to apply for special immigrant visas.