testified that the general policy of Congress has been to require aliens who are permanent residents of Territories and possessions to meet the same requirements for admission to the United States as aliens in a foreign country. He pointed out. however. that some special restrictions had been applied to Hawaii because several thousand Filipinos were admitted in 1946 to relieve a labor shortage. They were recognized by the United States district court of Hawaii as permanent residents for purposes of naturalization. but the State Department refused to recognize them for the purpose of visas. That is. they could become American citizens in Hawaii but could not come to the United States except as aliens of a foreign country. Continuing his explanation. Mr. FARRINGTON said: If you are an alien and you are admitted to Hawaii and settle there and you want to travel to the States or to California. you are required to obtain a visa and meet the same requirements as if you were coming from a foreign country. The witness was asked if these same people would not be admitted to the United States automatically if Hawaii became a State. and he replied: There would be no restrictions whatsoever. That is one of the arguments we make for statehood. The distinguished Senator from New Mexico then said: Just for example. a group of Communists had gotten into Hawaii. they would have to have a visa now to come to the United States. If this bill passes they can come freely. The Hawaiian Delegate replied: Well. that is a loaded question.
Keywords matched
naturalization visas visa