Published: July 26, 2023
Each visa category bears a symbol signifying the classification of a non-citizen’s status. For example, some of the most common visa categories bear the following classification symbols:
- B1: Temporary Visitor for Business
- B2: Temporary Visitor for Pleasure
- F1: Academic or language training students
- H1B: Alien in a Specialty Occupation (Profession)
- K1: Fiancé(e) of United States Citizen
Change in Classification Symbols
On July 6, 2023, DOS issued a Final Rule updating the classification symbols and specifications of some immigrant and nonimmigrant visas. The update adds the following classification symbols and descriptions:
- CW–1: CNMI-Only Transitional Worker
- CW–2: Dependent of a CNMI-Only transitional worker
- E–2C: CNMI-Only Investor
- T–6: Adult or Minor Child of a Derivative Beneficiary of a T1
DOS added the new visa classifications because of recent amendments to The Trafficking Victims Protection Reauthorization Act of 2008 and the Violence Against Women Reauthorization Act of 2013.
Also, the Final Rule removes the H2R visa classification because it is no longer in use.
no longer in use. The H2R visa was intended for returning H-2B Workers.
Date of Effectivity
The Final Rule will take effect on September 12, 2023. Take note, the amendments in the classification descriptions does not affect the visa eligibility requirements.
Importance of Classification Symbols
The classification symbols serve as identifiers for immigration visa categories. Applicants should be keen with the classification symbols to apply for the correct category and comply with relevant requirements.
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(Please note that this article does not create an Attorney-Client relationship between our law firm and the reader and is provided for informational purposes only. Information in this article does not apply to all readers. Readers should not rely on this information as legal advice and should seek specific counsel from a qualified attorney based on their individual circumstances. Thank you.)