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Bush launches immigration reform

Suzanne Goldenberg

Washington: U.S. President George Bush on Monday used a visit to an Arizona border town to try to win over conservatives to a plan for an overhaul of America's immigration laws.

In his second attempt at immigration reform, Mr. Bush laid out proposals for a guest worker system which would allow some of the estimated 12 million undocumented workers to regularise their status in the country — but at a penalty.

The focus of the guest worker programme would be a tamper-proof employee card for new arrivals, and a route to legalising the status of those already in the country.

Workers could apply for a three-year visa costing $3,500, but they would not be able to bring their families. If they wanted a green card they would have to return home, apply to the U.S. embassy and pay a $10,000 fee.

Those millions already in the country could legalise their status by paying a fine, and providing proof they have jobs and do not have a criminal record.

If they learn English and pay an additional fee of $1,500, they can apply for citizenship. —

© Guardian Newspapers Limited 2007

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