S.Amdt. 6231

SA 6231, submitted by Mr. Lankford, aims to add a new section (SEC. 1094) to the bill regarding the Electronic Visa Update System (EVUS). This amendment requires the Secretary of Homeland Security to operate and maintain this system to collect biographical and travel information from "designated aliens."

The amendment adds the following requirements and changes:

• Designations: The Secretary is tasked with designating specific nonimmigrant categories and countries that must use the system. When choosing countries, the Secretary must consult with the Secretary of State and consider factors like visa overstay rates, national security threats, and whether the country refuses to accept returned nationals.

• User Requirements: Designated aliens must enroll in the system within 5 days of receiving a visa and provide updates at least every 180 days. They must also provide a passport or other government-issued citizenship document.

• Enforcement: The Secretary can revoke the visa of any designated alien who fails to comply with the system's requirements, submits fraudulent information, or stays in the U.S. past their authorized date.

• Fees and Funding: The amendment establishes a fee for using the system, which must be at least $10.00. It also creates the Electronic Visa Update System Account to hold these funds exclusively for the system's expenses.

• Accountability: The Secretary must provide an initial report and subsequent annual reports to specific Congressional committees detailing compliance rates, visa revocations, and the number of aliens who did not depart the U.S. on time.