New State Dept. Rules Go into Effect; Refugee Entry Seen Continuing

As the new regulations centralizing visa issuance in the State Department went into effect today, it was authoritatively learned that entry of refugees into the U.S. will be maintained on the same level as heretofore–between 2,000 and 3,000 monthly.

It is understood that the State Department will issue visas, after investigation, to such persons as can be admitted without any danger to public safety. Those awaiting visas will not experience difficulties if they can satisfy the department of their financial support and ability to obtain exit permits.

While the State Department on June 5 telegraphed orders to consuls to withhold visas from persons having relatives in “certain countries,” the Department has given further consideration to a substantial number of such aliens. Aliens from whom visas are withhold because they have relatives in German territory will receive consideration after these relatives have departed.

After July 15, when American consulates in German and Italian territory will be closed, applicants for immigration visas will receive consideration at any American consulates in neutral countries to which they can obtain access. All affidavits in behalf of would-be immigrants will be handled by the State Department.

Regarding refugees in England, it is possible for them to reach the U.S. via South America, and an increasing number have been using this route. Since a large number of refugees remain in Axis-free territory, it is expected that immigration will be maintained on the same level as heretofore.

As to refugees with relatives in German territory, the Hebrew Immigrant Aid Society states: “If the State Department is satisfied that the applicant’s admission is desirable, that he will not become a public charge, that he properly sponsored and that he can obtain the necessary exit and transit visas and transportation, he will be admitted. The President’s Advisory Committee on Political Refugees is to act as liaison agency, with a view to protecting the country against those who might be induced to act as spies because of Nazi threats against their close relatives remaining behind.”