Afghans and Iraqis USCIS guidance. USCIS has updated its policy manual with counsel regarding Afghan and Iraqis seeking special immigrant classification. The new counsel explains that noncitizens seeking an Afghan Special Immigrant Visa (SIV) on or after July 20, 2022, must file Form DS-157, Petition for Special Immigrant Classification for Afghan SIV Applicants with the Department of State when they are appeal for Chief of Mission approval. Afghan nationals granted special immigrant status by the USCIS and having a valid Special Immigrant Visa (SIV) are eligible for resettlement assistance,
entitlement programs and other benefits available to refugees admitted under Section 207 of the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) for a period not to exceed six months.