H.R.8971

Veterans Visa and Protection Act of 2026

Introduced·5/21/26

Establishes a program for veterans to return to the U.S. as lawful permanent residents and protects them from removal.

The Veterans Visa and Protection Act of 2026 mandates the Secretary of Homeland Security to create a program allowing eligible veterans outside the U.S. to return as lawful permanent residents. It also requires U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement to seek approval before initiating removal proceedings against service members or veterans. The Act ensures that veterans who have been removed or are in removal proceedings can access military and veterans benefits. It further allows noncitizen veterans to naturalize through service in the Armed Forces, provided they meet specific criteria.

Included in complete analysis

  • Overview
  • Core Provisions
  • Implementation
  • Impact
  • Legal Framework
  • Critical Issues

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Where it stands

Current
Subcommittee on Health Committee
Next
Committee decision

Sponsors

Democratic CaucusRepublican Caucus

History

Jun 12

House

Referred to the Subcommittee on Health.

May 21

House

Introduced in House

May 21

House

Referred to the Committee on the Judiciary, and in addition to the Committees on Armed Services, and Veterans' Affairs, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned.