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Argentina’s Participation in the Visa Waiver Program Terminated
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Posted on February 21, 2002 Justice Department Terminates Argentina’s Participation in the VWP The Department of Justice announced on February 20, under an emergency termination provision, the imminent publication of an interim rule to officially remove Argentina from the Visa Waiver Program (VWP). According to a February 20 press release, the Justice Department, in consultation with the State Department, has concluded that Argentina’s participation in the VWP “is no longer compatible with the enforcement of immigration laws of the United States.” The decision follows Argentina’s recent economic collapse that has led to a 20 percent unemployment rate and economic uncertainty. The press release explains that the INS has experienced an increase in the number of Argentine nationals attempting to use the VWP to enter the U.S. and remain here without authorization upon the expiration of their 90-day period of admission. Argentine nationals who intend to travel to the U.S. for legitimate business or pleasure are now required to obtain a nonimmigrant visa at a U.S. consulate or embassy prior to their arrival into the U.S. According to the press release, nationals of Argentina, who gained lawful admission under the VWP before the removal date, may remain in the U.S. for the period of time authorized on their date of admission. The VWP permits nationals from designated countries to apply for admission to the U.S. for 90 days or less as nonimmigrant visitors for business or pleasure without first obtaining a nonimmigrant visa from a U.S. consular officer abroad. With the removal of Argentina, the following 28 countries remain in the VWP: Andorra, Australia, Austria, Belgium, Brunei, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Liechtenstein, Luxembourg, Monaco, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Portugal, San Marino, Singapore, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, The United Kingdom, and Uruguay. The interim regulation is expected to be published in the Federal Register as early as tomorrow, and will take effect upon publication. |