Bill > HR3781

This bill, called the "Visa Overstays Penalties Act," proposes significant changes to the Immigration and Nationality Act to create more stringent penalties for individuals who overstay their visas or violate their immigration status. Specifically, the bill establishes new criminal and civil penalties for nonimmigrants who fail to maintain their authorized immigration status for an aggregate of 10 days or more. For a first-time violation, an individual could face up to 6 months in prison, fines, or both, while subsequent violations or prior convictions could result in up to 2 years in prison. Additionally, the bill introduces civil penalties ranging from $500 to $1,000 for each violation, with the amount doubling for repeat offenders. The legislation also increases monetary fines for illegal entry, raising the minimum fine from $50 to $500 and the maximum from $250 to $1,000. By creating these more severe consequences, the bill aims to discourage visa overstays and strengthen enforcement of immigration regulations, potentially serving as a deterrent for individuals who might otherwise remain in the United States beyond their authorized period of stay.

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https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/house-bill/3781/all-info