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High-Tech Visas Under Debate Regarding Immigration

Immigration is a critical subject currently, as the white house pursues to reach a deal that satisfies all sides. One of the issues that has risen within the debate are high-tech visas. It appears it is now rising many concerns, as even senators make their responses to the visa topic.

Fox News reported yesterday that senators are debating over whether to increase visa accessibility to high-tech workers. Also, the dispute is over how to discipline companies that train these workers in the US, then send them back overseas to continue working. Senator Dick Durbin is one of the main senators involved. Senator Durbin has taken the lead on issues, such as firms that outsource overseas and wage increases for higher-skilled foreign workers with H-1B Visas. High-tech officials feel Senator Durbin’s fight risks punishing companies that have nothing to do with the foreign worker abuse he is pursuing to end.

The immigration deal is almost to close, and senators are attempting to handle the visa dispute as best as possible. The new immigration legislation would secure the border, and most of all, will grant 11 million people currently in the US illegally, the citizenship they are looking for. It will also give thousands of skilled workers access into the US under the new visa programs.

A number of large high-tech companies have stake in the visa issue. Some of those companies include Google, Microsoft and Apple, which have a high demand for the high-tech visas. These tech giants, for example, have a cap of 65,000 allowed H-1B visas that they can offer. They also can issue another 20,000 annually for foreign workers that have graduated from a university in the US. The amount of applications received by Homeland Security has been overwhelming. In less than one week of accepting the H-1B visa applications, they have already reached capacity for the 2014 budget year.

There need to be some major reforms before expansion happens,” said Daniel Costa, immigration policy analyst from the Economic Policy Institute. Costa stated the top 10 companies with the highest number of H-1B visas last year were firms that bring workers to the US and work for less money, after which, they are sent back to their home countries. Senators are debating whether to demand companies that operate with 30% of their workforce as such, to pay these workers higher wages. The US is considered increasing the annual cap from 65,000 to 100,000.
Regardless of the outcome, what does not change is that foreign workers will need a visa. Washington Express Visas can assist you with all of your expedited visa services and expediting passport processing needs. Washington Express Visas is the Washington DC metro area’s fastest visa services, passport processing, document legalization and translations specialists. Washington Express Visas has provided expedited passport processing services with same day pick up for over 30 years. Our professional passport specialists hand carry your passport documents to ensure that your documents get the expedited attention they need. Call us at (877) 675-5571 today!

References: 4.9.13, Fox News, Associated Press, Senators arguing over high-tech visas for foreign workers in immigration deal, aides say

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TSA To Expedite Screening for Faster Travel For Disabled Military

TSA has made great strides in advancement of security measures since 9/11 to keep travelers safe. However, some of those measures have caused some travelers to feel violated. One past example is the use of graphic airport body scanners. Now, a recent wounded military personnel’s encounter with TSA screening has sparked more change in the right direction.

The TSA will begin to expand its’ program for expedited screening through airports for inactive-duty and inactive “wounded warriors” reported CNN late last week. The expanding of the expedited screening military program comes as a result of a disabled Marine being requested to remove both of his prosthetic legs. Although he had the prosthetic legs, he had limited mobility. He could not stand of walk on his own merit. The TSA screener, however, asked the Marine to stand or walk, so they could perform examination on the wheelchair. After putting the prosthetic legs back on, he was put through the same screening process at another point while pursuing to travel. The TSA screener denies the allegations.

TSA will now include within its’ military expedited screening program all active-duty and also what they call inactive “wounded warriors”. They will have the same expediting screening privileges as active-duty, uniformed military personnel. The process for wounded warriors will be to contact TSA via e-mail or phone before their flight, in which they will have similar benefits to the TSA Precheck Program. The program allows them to keep on certain apparel such as shoes and hats. TSA also desires to provide “curb to gate” service to all wounded warriors as well.

TSA Deputy Administrator John Halinski stated, “In recognition of the sacrifices of our men and women in uniform, we have revised our screening requirements to allow expedited screening for this trusted group of citizens”. Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard was said to be pleased with the TSA changes.

There are other screening changes TSA has plans to make in 2013, which involve their scanning devices. They will remove airport body scanners that reveal graphic images of travelers’ bodies in June. Travelers felt the body scanners were a violation of privacy. TSA has pursued to solve the problem with the backscatter machines. There are 174 backscatter machines in 30 airports that are expected to be removed. Currently, 170 airports are using the millimeter wave machines. Traveling will become quicker and easier through the airport.

Wherever you will be traveling this year, do not forgot your passport. Washington Express Visas can assist you with all of your expedited visa services and expediting passport processing needs. Washington Express Visas is the Washington DC metro area’s fastest visa services, passport processing, document legalization and translations specialists. Washington Express Visas has provided expedited passport processing services with same day pick up for over 30 years. Our professional passport specialists hand carry your passport documents to ensure that your documents get the expedited attention they need to meet all of your travel needs and deadlines. Call us at (877) 675-5571 today!

References: 3.28.13, www.cnn.com, Mike M Ahlers, TSA expedites screening for ‘wounded warriors’

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Best Beaches To Travel For 2013

We are already in March and the Summer is almost upon us. This is the time where most people around the world take time out of their busy schedule and take a much needed vacation.

There is no point in waiting to start planning your beautiful, long-awaited vacation. The time is now to set in motion your trip of a lifetime. One of the favorite places to travel for a vacation is no other than the beach. With crystal clear waters, bright blue skies and brown sand beneath your feet, the beach provides an atmosphere perfect for relaxation and fun. Below are a few of the top beaches to visit in 2013.

Miami Beach – Miami Beach is one of the most attractive beaches in the world. Located near the Pacific Ocean, it is embedded in the tropical climate, as other caribbean countries. It is also a top location for tourism worldwide very summer. It tends to be a great choice for travelers who reside in the US seeking an inexpensive getaway to the beach also. The city of Miami Beach is within driving distance to the Floriday Keys, therefore, you can explore all that Florida has to offer.

Palawan Beach – Palawan Beach is located in the Phillipines and is fascinating to behold. It is one of the country’s most popular tourist destinations. The island there is covered with rich rain forest vegatation and has a variety of beaches to visit. It has natural attractions to see such as blue lagoons, canoe trips through caves, and waterfalls. El Nido is held by tourists as one of most recommended popular resorts while you vacation there.

Cabo San Lucas Beach – This beautiful beach is found in no other than one of the world’s most popular tourist countries for vacation – Mexico. It has a location called Lover’s Beach and is perfect place to travel for honeymoons. It also has the well-known Arch of Poseidon, a stone mountain monument created by water and wind. It is truely heavenly being on this breathtaking beach and its’ hot weather. There are many activities the beach has to offer such as jet skiing, diving, parasailing, and banana races.

Beaches Of The Dominican Republic – This country offers a number of beaches in the Caribbean that you will absolutely adore. The climate is sunny year-round and is not expensive to travel to. You can enjoy the tropical weather, palm trees mountains, golf courses, salsa dancing, and more. It has the tourist city of artists called Altos de Chavon. You will really experience culture when you visit this beach with such places like their archaeological museum as well.

Whether you decide to travel to one of these beaches or any other beach in the world, do not forget your passport! Washington Express Visas can assist you with all of your expedited passport processing and expedited visa processing needs. Washington Express Visas is the Washington DC metro area’s fastest visa services, passport processing, document legalization and translations specialists. Washington Express Visas professional office staff and specially trained visa agents provide same day pick up service to deliver all our services to every Embassy and agency in the Washington, DC metro area. Call us at (877) 675-5571 and let us help you travel today!

References: www.topbeachesintheworld.net

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Britain To Offer Same-Day Visa To Indian Businessmen And Students

Getting a visa ordinarily could take some time receive, however, countries are pursuing to make the visa process faster and faster. Britain is one of them and has even announced they will offer visas in the same day.

The Indo Asian News Service has reported British Prime Minister David Cameron announced a new same-day visa for India. The new visa is geared to attract more Indian businessmen and investors to Britain. “We have the biggest visa operations anywhere in the world right here in India. I announce that we are going to introduce for businesses a ‘same-day visa’ service to those who want to come and invest in our country,” said Cameron while in Mumbai. This is a strategic move by Britain and may prove to pay off.

The British economy is beginning to shows signs of recovery and they are extending their hand to India. “We want the Indian government to continue to open up trade barriers and make it easier to do business here. We have to ensure that just as we welcome the Indian investments into Britain, it is easier for British companies like banking, retail and others to invest in this vibrant and fast growing economy,” Cameron said. Britain is also looking to reduce trade barriers between the two countries as well.Prime Minister Cameron also stated there will be no limit to the entry of Indian students into Britain to study at its’ universities and schools. Indian students will be free to stay in Britain at any length of time and work in graduate-level jobs after they complete all qualifications to remain there. This is a big step for Britain, as the country is pursuing to strengthen their partnership with India via education.

The same day visa could be ground breaking for both countries. Indian businessmen will be able to start businesses in Britain and share their expertise with one another. Cameron also referred to India as one of the great powers in the world relative to economy. This could very well be a pattern for other countries as they see the benefits of expediting their visa process.

The Britain same day visa initiative shows countries seeking to get their visas expedited. Travelers enjoy expedited visa services as well. Wherever you may decide to travel, Washington Express Visas can assist you with all of your expedited visa services and expediting passport processing needs. Washington Express Visas is the Washington DC metro area’s fastest visa services, passport processing, document legalization and translations specialists. Washington Express Visas professional office staff and specially trained visa agents provide same day pick up service to deliver all our services to every Embassy and agency in the Washington, DC metro area. Call us at (877) 675-5571 today!

Reference: 2.18.13, Yahoo News, Indo Asian News Service, Same-day visa for Indian investors, no cap on students: Cameron

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Canada Set To Launch Start-Up Visas To Draw Entrepreneur Immigrants

As an immigrant entrepreneur, having the opportunity to start a business is one of the most highly-developed countries in the world like Canada can be rewarding. The country is now set the launch start-up visas to help their overall economy thrive.

Canada has announced they will launch a new start-up visa program for skilled-working immigrants who desire to set up new companies reported Yahoo News. The new program will officially begin April 1st of this year. The push is to help their immigration system align with their economic goals, resulting in a positive effect on their economy. “Our new start-up visa will help make Canada the destination of choice for the world’s best and brightest to launch their companies. Recruiting dynamic entrepreneurs from around the world will help Canada remain competitive in the global economy,” said Canadian Citizenship and Immigration Minister Jason Kenney.

There will be requirements in place for immigrant entrepreneurs to obtain the start-up visa. Entrepreneur foreigners will be required to have the support of a Canadian venture capital fund or angel investor group. This assures that the start-up company’s approval, and that it has the financial investment it needs to be successful. These financial groups will identify and confirm the start-up visa candidates. Once completed, the Canadian government will provide their start-up visa within weeks, which makes for an overall speedy process.

Ottawa will begin taking the first steps in the initiative. They have two umbrellas groups that will work to identify association members eligible for the program. The two groups are Canada’s Venture Capital & Private Equity Association (CVCA) and the National Angel Capital Organization. Canada appears to have high hopes for the new start-up visa program to bring in the brightest foreigners to help create leading companies.

Canada expects a number of benefits from the new start-up visa. The new visa will help the country compete globally and remain innovative. It also allows Canadians to come together with foreign minds and learn from one another. The report also mentioned this could attract frustrated foreigners who have had a difficult time acquiring a visa from the US. This could appeal to foreigners having difficulty in other countries as well. For foreigners, the new Canadian visa would grant them permanent resident status, which means they can take the path of citizenship if they so choose.

Whether you are an immigrant entrepreneur or traveler, you will need a visa. Washington Express Visas can assist you with all of your expedited visa services and expediting passport processing needs. Washington Express Visas is the Washington DC metro area’s fastest visa services, passport processing, document legalization and translations specialists. Washington Express Visas professional office staff and specially trained visa agents provide same day pick up service to deliver all our services to every Embassy and agency in the Washington, DC metro area. Call us at (877) 675-5571 today!

References: 1.24.13, Yahoo News-Reuters, Randall Palmer, Canada sets start-up visa to attract entrepreneur immigrants

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TSA Removing Non-Privacy Body Scanners From Airports Nationwide

TSA has pursued continual security improvements since 9/11 to keep travelers safe. However, many people have felt some security measures like the use of graphic airport body scanners, violates privacy and goes a little too far. As of later this year, TSA is going to change that.

TSA has announced they will remove airport body scanners that reveal graphic images of travelers’ bodies in June 2013. The body scanners received much criticism while in use. TSA has pursued to solve the problem with the backscatter machines by having their contracted manufacturer, Rapiscan, upgrade them with privacy software. Rapiscan informed the TSA that they could not meet the congressional deadline for the software implementation, therefore, TSA has decided to remove them. “It is big news,” said Marc Rotenberg, the Electronic Privacy Information Center Executive Director. “It removes the concern that people are being viewed naked by the TSA screener.”

Backscatter machines appear to be technology of the past. Security privacy called Automated Target Recognition or ATR is software that only shows a body outline. Millimeter wave machines will be TSA’s preferred machine. They have the privacy software, but backscatter machines do not. Backscatter machines also use X-Rays, which to some travelers deem as a health concern. Millimeter wave machines use radio waves instead. Backscatter machines after more scanning study and/or if the ATR can be developed for them in the future.

Traveling will become quicker and easier through the airport. There are 174 backscatter machines in 30 airports that are expected to be removed. Currently, 170 airports are using the millimeter wave machines. At the same token, it will also increase security as well.

Whether you are traveling in the US or abroad, you will need a passport. Washington Express Visas can assist you with all of your expedited visa services and expediting passport processing needs. Washington Express Visas is the Washington DC metro area’s fastest visa services, passport processing, document legalization and translations specialists. Washington Express Visas provides expedited passport processing service with same day pick up. Our professional passport specialists hand carry your passport documents to ensure that your documents get the expedited attention they need to meet all of your travel needs and deadlines. Call us at (877) 675-5571 today!

References: 1.19.13, CNN, Mike M. Ahlers, TSA removing ‘virtual strip search’ body scanners

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New Thailand And Cambodia Single-Entry Visa

A single-entry visa is not just going to be held by the European Union any longer. A couple of small countries have decided to join in and see how effective it can be for higher tourism for both of them. Thailand and Cambodia have launched a single-entry visa into their countries.

The Asia News Network reported that Thailand and Cambodia have released the launching what is currently known as the Acmecs Single Visa. It is the Asean version of the European Union’s Schengen Visa scheme. The Acmecs, the Ayeyawady-Chao Phraya-Mekong Economic Cooperation Strategy, is made up of five countries, which include Thailand, Cambodia, Laos, Vietnam, and Myanmar. Thailand and Cambodia are the first of the two to implement the new single-entry visa. Tourists can now use either country’s embassy and receive a single-entry visa for both countries. “If the initial project is successful, then the remaining Acmecs members will join the scheme,” said Foreign Minister Surapong Towichuk-chaikul.

The main objective of the new single-entry visa is to boost tourism throughout these Asian areas. The report stated 21 million tourists visited Thailand in 2012. In contrast, Cambodia only experienced a fraction of that tourism at 2.3 million. Since Thailand is the most attractive, tourists will enjoy being able to travel to Cambodia as an additional destination. The single visa will definitely benefit both and eventually, all five countries of the Asean scheme. From the onset, the emerging idea was “four countries-one destination”, in which Vietnam joined later.

The new single-entry visa, however, will not exempt tourists from being required to pay the actual visa fees of the country the desire to travel to. For example, the Thai embassy will have its’ own entry fee. If the tourist is planning to travel to Cambodia, they will have to pay the entry fee for Cambodia at the Thai embassy at the same time in order to travel there.

For the aspiring countries to pursue economic growth together should be no surprise. Both countries have already agreed to increase their trading with one another by 30% per year. They will also begin upgrades on the infrastructure, such as roads and bridges, to handle the increased tourism.

Whether you are traveling to Thailand, Cambodia or any other country throughout the world, you will need a visa to get there. Washington Express Visas can assist you with all of your expedited visa services and expediting passport processing needs. Washington Express Visas is the Washington DC metro area’s fastest visa services, passport processing, document legalization and translations specialists. Washington Express Visas professional office staff and specially trained visa agents provide same day pick up service to deliver all our services to every Embassy and agency in the Washington, DC metro area. Call us at (877) 675-5571 today!

References: 12.27.12, Supalak Ganjanakhundee in Bangkok/The Nation/Asia News Network, Thailand, Cambodia launch single-entry visa

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Will New Mexico Be Required Passport To Fly Domestically?

It may sound foreign for a resident of the US to be required to have a passport domestically, however, it may very well be the case in the state of New Mexico.  It is becoming a reality for many of their residents that in 2013 this could happen.

In 2005, The Real ID Act was created by Congress to modify US federal law regarding security, authentication, and issuance procedures for state driver’s licenses and ID cards.  The Secretary of Homeland Security defined the official purposes for driver’s licenses and state ID’s is to be used for entry into government buildings, nuclear plants, and also air flights.  Most states have complied with the Real ID Act, but some have not.  States that have not complied, were given extensions until the January 2013 deadline.  New Mexico is one of the rare states that does meet the minimum requirements of the Real ID Act.  The state does not require proof of citizenship to obtain a driver license there.

The reason it is such an issue for New Mexico is because the same driver’s license a person can receive in the state, is all an individual needs to pass through security at the Albuquerque Sunport Airport.  This is current procedure in New Mexico, but it appears it may change.  New Mexicans may in fact have to provide a valid passport, along with their driver’s license to fly reported KOB Eyewitness News, one of the news stations in the state.  To offer clarity to the issue, New Mexico Governor Susan Martinez told KOB that she is not aware of any other additional identification than a passport to get through airport security after the Real ID Act takes effect.

A Sunport airport spokesperson stated in the report, “Neither the Sunport nor local Transportation Security Administration officials have received any guidance from the Department of Homeland Security on how to deal with passengers who do not hold a Real ID compliant driver’s license after the implementation date. Additionally, there is some confusion regarding whether or not the January 15, 2013 deadline mandates that individuals are actually required to hold Real ID compliant licenses or if there is a later deadline for individuals. We are working with the state and local TSA to try and receive a definitive answer from DHS as to the impact this will have on our customers and how we can eliminate or minimize any travel disruptions.”

Many New Mexicans are seeking passports just in case to meet the January 15th deadline.  For expedited passport services, New Mexicans can use Washington Express Visas to assist them with any of their passport needs.  Washington Express Visas provides expedited passport services with same-day pick up and specially trained passport processing agents to deliver your passport applications for processing at the Washington, DC Passport Agency.  With over 30 years of experience, our professional passport specialists hand carry your passport documents to ensure that your documents get the expedited attention they need to meet all of your travel needs and deadlines.  Visit us at www.washingtonexpressvisas.com or call 1-877-675-5571 today!

Reference:  12.7.12, www.kob.com, Jill Galus, Clarity lacking over passport requirement for New Mexicans

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US Expects Travel Increase Over Next 5 Years

One of the world’s most desired places to travel is our very own United States. Being the wealthiest and most advanced country in the world, international travelers come to see the beautiful land of the free. From the latest findings, these number of travelers to the US is about to increase in the years to come.

The US Department of Commerce has reported that we can expect a 3.6% to 4.3% annual growth in foreign travel of the next five years. In 2012, 66 million international travelers are projected to visit the US, which is a 6% increase from 62.7 million in 2011.

This will mean a number of positive results for the US. With a slow-paced economy, an increase in the travel sector will aid business growth. Many small businesses look for travelers to shop with them. In the report, the Commerce Department of International Trade Administration stated there were $153 billion in receipts and $43 billion in trade surplus last year. “Last year, our nation hosted a record-breaking number of international vistors, and the future looks even brighter,” said Francisco Sanchez, Under Secretary of Commerce for International Trade.

The North American region will account for the largest portion of the total visitor growth at 18 million visitors, which is 42%. Other notables will be Asia at 26% and South America at 13%. The largest number of vistors are projected to come from Canada at 29% of total growth. China will consist of 16%, Mexico at 13%, Brazil at 7%, United Kingdom and Japan at 4%.

The percentages increase will vary from different countries all over the world. China is predicted to have the largest predicted growth at 259%. Other high numbers will come from Brazil at 83% and Argentina at 67%. The South American numbers are should not be a surprise, seeing their economy is currently experiencing steady growth. It appears that with these high figures, American travel into these countries will likely increase as well.

Whether you are traveling into the US or one the other beautiful countries in the world, you will need a passport or visa. Washington Express Visas specializes in expedited passport services, expedited visa services and document processing. We are Washington DC metro area’s fastest visa services, passport processing, document legalization, and translations specialists. Washington Express Visas has been in business for 30 years and is the Washington DC metro area’s largest courier. We also provide all cash and other fees up front so there are no delays. Visit us at www.washingtonexpressvisas.com or Call us at 1-877-675-5571 today!

Reference: 12.3.12, US Embassy IIP Digital, Foreign Visitors To U.S. Expected To Increase Over Next 5 Years
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Great Tips For Holiday Travel!

The holiday season is here and people are gearing up to visit their beloved families and friends. This is the time in which we tend to travel the most. Thanksgiving was already projected by AAA to increase for the fourth consecutive year in the US. Traveling will increase as Christmas and New Year’s Day approaches.

Travelers will also to enjoy a change of scenery right before the new year and take a vacation. Traveling in December will be congested, however, it does not have to be difficult. With the right tips, you can make the best of your holiday traveling.

Per the U.S. Bureau of Consular Affairs, here are some great tips for holiday travel:

Enroll In STEP – The Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) is a free online service in which your family can enroll in to help the Department of State locate you in case of emergency in the U.S. or where you have traveled. You can also receive updated travel information of the country you are visiting.

Leave Copies of Itinerary, Passport Data Page, & Credit Card – Leave these important documents with your family or friends. It can help them in the event you need assistance. With leaving a credit card, they can contact your credit card company and they can actually use it to locate you.

Find The Closest U.S. Embassy Or Consulate – In case you need assistance from a consular officer, be informed where the nearest US Embassy is located in your destination country.

Minor Children Traveling – If you are traveling with children under the age of 16, double check their passport expiration dates. Passports for this age group are only valid for 5 years, instead of 10 years like adults. Children must apply for a passport in person with their parents or legal guardians. Feel free to review the requirements for children’s passports on www.travel.gov as well.

Sign And Fill In All Emergency Information On Your Passport – Make sure you have a signed, valid passport, and visa, and complete the emergency information on your passport. Write the contact information in pencil for easy updating in the future.

Finally, don’t forget your passport. If you need a passport or visa, you do not have to look any further. For expedited passport processing or expedited visa services, you can contact Washington Express Visas. Washington Express Visas is the Washington DC metro area’s fastest Visa Services, Passport Processing, Document Legalization and Translations specialists. With 30 years of expertise, Washington Express Visas is the Washington DC metro area’s largest courier service. Visit www.washingtonexpressvisas.com or call 877-675-5571 today!

Reference: www.travel.state.gov, Consular Officers Share Holiday Travel Tips

Washington Express Visas is a private company that is not affiliated with any government agency. We charge a fee to process and expedite passports, visas and document leglization applications at consulates and passport agencies.

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