New Procedure for Visas Considered Complicated; Changes Urged

Changes are likely to be made in the application forms which the Visa Division of the State Department introduced this month for those desiring to bring over relatives from Europe, it was learned here today.

The number of questions which these forms contain has provoked much criticism and is taken to mean that the Visa Division, in which the visa control has been centralized since July 1st, intends to make it exceptionally difficult for Americans to bring their refugee-relatives over.

Under the new regulations, at least two persons–American citizens, or aliens lawfully admitted into the United States for permanent residence–must sponsor and applicant for a visa. Hitherto one sponsor was sufficient. Special affidavits designated as Form B, C and D are now required to be filled out. The subscriber to Form B must answer 23 questions regarding the prospective immigrant, including the names, addresses and nationality of his close relatives in the United States, the names and addresses of such relatives as brothers, sisters or parents remaining abroad, the educational background of the alien, his political activities and affiliations, the present and previous places of his residence, the positions held since 1930 and the names and addresses of his employers. He is also required to give reasons for believing that the alien may be endangered in the country of his residence, and whether he can secure permission to leave the country of his residence. He must also say where the alien plans to reside if admitted into the United States and what occupation does he plan to follow here.

The affiant subscribing to Form C must state the nationality of his father, must under oath certify that he has never been convicted on criminal charges or that civil suits are pending against him; that he has never been adjudged bankrupt; that he believes in the American democratic form of government and that he is convinced that the alien “will not engage in any activity against the public safety of the United States”. He must also provide proof of his financial standing and enumerate all the affidavits he had previously executed in behalf of aliens who applied for American visas. He must pledge that during his lifetime he will guarantee the United States against any losses or damages which may be suffered by reason of the immigrant becoming a public charge.

Each person executing Forms B or C must submit two letters of reference regarding his character. When the required forms and supporting documents have been filled out and signed under oath, they must be sent to the Immigration Division, Visa Section, State Department, Washington, D.C. After examination, the State Department sends to the American Consul concerned a report on the case for further consideration. The Consul in turn notifies the prospective immigrant of further procedure.