Special Immigrant Visas for Afghans – Who Worked for/on Behalf of the U.S. Government

The Afghan Allies Protection Act of 2009, Section 602(b) of Division F, Title IV, of the Omnibus Appropriations Act, 2009, Public Law 111-8, authorizes 1,500 special immigrant visas annually for Afghan employees and contractors for fiscal years 2009 through 2013 who have been employed by or on behalf of the United States Government in Afghanistan on or after October 7, 2001, for a period of not less than one year, and who have experienced or are experiencing an ongoing serious threat as a consequence of that employment.

This new program has not yet been implemented, but additional information and frequently asked questions will be available on this website once the program is operational.  Please check back to this website or the USCIS website at http://www.uscis.gov for information on when you may begin to submit documents to Embassy Kabul before filing your petition with USCIS.

NOTICE: Applicants should NOT make any travel arrangements, sell property, or give up employment until the U.S. Embassy or Consulate General has issued a visa.

This new program is completely distinct from another program authorizing special immigrant visas for certain Iraqi and Afghan translators/interpreters working for the USG. For information on that program see Learn More.

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