Iraqi SIV Special Immigrant Visa in El Cajon: Guide for Translators & Interpreters
Immigration help for Iraqis who served with U.S. forces
Quick Answer
El Cajon is home to one of the largest Iraqi communities in the United States. For Iraqi nationals who served as translators, interpreters, or in other capacities with U.S. forces, the Special Immigrant Visa (SIV) program offers a pathway to lawful permanent residence in recognition of their service.
Reviewed for accuracy by
Maria Santos
DOJ Accredited Representative • 15+ years experience
El Cajon is home to one of the largest Iraqi communities in the United States. For Iraqi nationals who served as translators, interpreters, or in other capacities with U.S. forces, the Special Immigrant Visa (SIV) program offers a pathway to lawful permanent residence in recognition of their service.
What is the Iraqi Special Immigrant Visa?
The SIV provides:
• Lawful permanent resident status (green card)
• Authorization to work in the United States
• Access to resettlement benefits
• Path to citizenship after 5 years
Who Qualifies for Iraqi SIV?
| Category | Requirements | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Direct Hire Translators/Interpreters | 12+ months working with U.S. military | Must have worked after March 2003 |
| Chief of Mission (COM) Employees | 12+ months for U.S. government | Under COM authority in Iraq |
| U.S. Contractor Employees | 12+ months for U.S. government contractor | Supporting U.S. mission |
Basic Eligibility Requirements
- •Iraqi national (by nationality)
- •Worked for or on behalf of U.S. government in Iraq
- •Minimum 12 months of qualifying employment
- •Faithful and valuable service (recommendation letter)
- •No allegiance to terrorist organizations
- •Experienced or are experiencing ongoing serious threat
- •Pass background and security checks
The SIV Application Process
- 1Chief of Mission Approval
Request COM approval verifying your employment and service
- 2I-360 Petition
Submit Form I-360 (Petition for Amerasian, Widow(er), or Special Immigrant)
- 3USCIS Processing
Wait for I-360 approval from USCIS
- 4NVC Processing
Case transfers to National Visa Center for immigrant visa processing
- 5Immigrant Visa Interview
Interview at U.S. Embassy (if abroad) or adjust status (if in U.S.)
- 6Travel to U.S.
Enter the U.S. as a lawful permanent resident
Required Documents
- •Proof of Iraqi nationality (passport, national ID)
- •Employment verification letter from U.S. government or contractor
- •Recommendation letter from direct supervisor (U.S. citizen)
- •Evidence of threat (police reports, threatening letters, etc.)
- •Background check results
- •Medical examination results (DS-160)
- •Passport photos
- •Form DS-157 (if applicable)
Including Family Members
• Spouse: Marriage certificate required
• Children: Birth certificates and proof of relationship
• Each family member needs their own documentation
• Family members receive same permanent resident status
Threat Documentation
- •Threatening letters or messages
- •Police reports of attacks or threats
- •Evidence of harm to colleagues or family
- •News reports about targeting of translators
- •Witness statements
- •Medical records of any injuries
- •Country conditions reports
After Arrival in the U.S.
• You are a lawful permanent resident immediately
• You can work legally right away
• You may be eligible for refugee resettlement benefits
• You can apply for citizenship after 5 years
• You can petition for family members still abroad
FAQFrequently Asked Questions
Q:Is the Iraqi SIV program still active?
A: The Iraqi SIV program has limited visa numbers. Check current availability and program status, as it has been periodically extended by Congress.
Q:Can I apply if I'm already in the United States?
A: Yes, if you're in the U.S. with valid status and your I-360 is approved, you may be able to adjust status instead of returning for a visa interview.
Q:How long does the process take?
A: The SIV process can take 1-3+ years depending on case complexity, security checks, and visa availability. Processing times vary significantly.
Q:What if I don't have my employment documents?
A: If you cannot obtain official documents, affidavits from U.S. citizen supervisors and other evidence may be accepted. We help gather alternative evidence.
Q:Can my family in Iraq apply with me?
A: Your spouse and unmarried children under 21 can be included as derivative beneficiaries. Extended family members (parents, siblings) cannot be included but may qualify for other immigration options.
Served with U.S. Forces in Iraq?
Our Arabic-speaking team understands the unique challenges facing Iraqi SIV applicants. We help prepare complete applications with proper documentation.
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