IM-34 April 15, 2010; IM-52 July 20, 2009; IM-112 December 29, 2008
The effective date of eligibility for both Iraqi and Afghan Special Immigrants can be no earlier than December 26, 2007, and begins the date the special immigrant status is granted. Iraqi and Afghan special immigrants enter the United States with another immigrant status, for example LPR (Lawful Permanent Resident). Once granted special immigrant status, these immigrants do not have to meet other immigrant qualifications such as residing in the U.S. for five years, during their period of special immigrant status.