The Senate Judiciary Committee of the United States Congress held a confirmation hearing for Lee Francis Cissna, nominated by Trump as the Director of the Immigration Bureau. During the hearing, Cissna acknowledged that he had provided professional consulting on immigration law to President Trump's transition team. Cissna believes that the current penalties for the abuse of H-1B visas are too lenient, and he also committed to realizing the final implementation of the EB-5 reform plan.
So who is Cissna? He currently serves as the Director of the Immigration Policy Office at the Department of Homeland Security. Before holding this position, he wrote a considerable amount of immigration-related policy information for Senator Chuck Grassley. Those who are concerned about the reform of the EB-5 legislation are likely familiar with Senator Grassley, who, along with Senator Leahy, has been a key proponent of reforming the EB-5 legislation in Congress.
When discussing the reform of the EB-5 investment immigration legislation, Cissna clearly expressed his determination to promote the final implementation of the new EB-5 regulations by the Immigration Bureau. Cissna stated that the Immigration Bureau is currently comprehensively considering public opinions on the new EB-5 legislation and is actively working towards the final drafting of the proposed new EB-5 legislation. If his nomination as Director of the Immigration Bureau is confirmed by Congress, he will do everything possible to ensure the correct and legal final implementation of the new EB-5 legislation.
Currently, the EB-5 investment immigration program has been confirmed to be extended until September 30 of this year. After September 30, the possibility of changes to the EB-5 policy remains high. Additionally, since July 1, foreign exchange controls in mainland China have become stricter. Delaying further may make it increasingly difficult for applicants wishing to apply for EB-5. Therefore, it is crucial to seize the next few months to apply as soon as possible.