Dan Rutherford Supporting Visa Waivers for Polish Citizens
Office of Illinois State Treasure|Wednesday, February 8, 2012
Illinois State Treasurer Dan Rutherford is publicly supporting bipartisan federal legislation which would add Poland to the other 36 existing countries currently participating in the United States’ Visa Waiver Program (VWP). The Visa Waiver Program Enhanced Security and Reform Act is cosponsored by U.S. Senator Mark Kirk with a companion bill in the House led by U. S. Representative Mike Quigley (IL-05).
"Poland has always been one of America’s most trusted allies – from recent NATO missions in the Middle East all the way back to the American Revolution they have fought for freedom alongside American soldiers. Poland is a valued diplomatic partner. Polish-Americans deserve to have barriers removed to allow their friends and families easier trips into the United States. Even Illinois’ travel and tourism industries would see a positive impact from more Polish visitors. I encourage our U.S. Congress to allow Poland participation in the Visa Waiver Program,” stated Rutherford.
The current VWP, in place since 1986, allows citizens of participating countries entry into the U.S. for a maximum 90 day period without having to apply for an entry visa. Poland already allows U.S. citizens entry into their country without a visa.
