Understanding United States Visitor and Immigration Status Indicator Technology

Definition & Meaning

The United States Visitor and Immigration Status Indicator Technology, commonly referred to as US-VISIT, is an automated system designed to track the entry and exit of non-immigrant visitors in the United States. This program collects biometric data, such as fingerprints and photographs, from visitors aged 14 to 79 who hold visas. It also includes individuals traveling under the Visa Waiver Program. The primary goal of US-VISIT is to enhance border security by reducing fraud and preventing the entry of individuals deemed threats, such as terrorists or criminals. The collected data is analyzed and compared against various databases to ensure safety and compliance with U.S. immigration laws.

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Real-world examples

Here are a couple of examples of abatement:

(Hypothetical example) A tourist from Germany arrives in the U.S. under the Visa Waiver Program. Upon entry, they provide their fingerprints and photograph as part of the US-VISIT process. This data is then stored and checked against security databases to ensure they do not pose a risk.

(Hypothetical example) A student from Brazil applies for a visa to study in the U.S. They must participate in US-VISIT by providing biometric data at the port of entry, which will be used to track their stay and ensure compliance with visa conditions.

Comparison with related terms

Term Description Difference
US-VISIT A system for tracking non-immigrant visitors using biometric data. Specific to entry/exit tracking and security.
Visa Waiver Program A program allowing certain nationalities to travel to the U.S. without a visa. US-VISIT is a requirement for participants in this program.
Biometric Data Unique physical characteristics used for identification. US-VISIT specifically collects biometric data for security purposes.

What to do if this term applies to you

If you are a non-immigrant visitor planning to travel to the U.S., ensure you understand the US-VISIT requirements. Prepare to provide biometric data upon entry. If you have questions about the process or need assistance with visa applications, consider using US Legal Forms for access to legal templates and resources. For complex situations, consulting with a legal professional is advisable.

Quick facts

Attribute Details
Age Requirement 14 to 79 years old
Participation Mandatory for visa holders and Visa Waiver Program travelers
Data Collected Biometric data (fingerprints and photographs)
Access Federal, state, and local agencies

Key takeaways

Frequently asked questions

US-VISIT is an automated system that collects biometric data from non-immigrant visitors to enhance border security.