About USA SIV Visa for Army
How to Apply for a USA SIV Visa If You Worked for the US During the Afghan War
If you supported the United States military or government efforts in Afghanistan as an interpreter, translator, contractor, or other support role, you may qualify for the Special Immigrant Visa (SIV). This visa allows you to safely relocate to the United States along with your immediate family. This blog post explains who qualifies, how to apply, and everything you need to know about the SIV process for Afghan nationals.
What is a Special Immigrant Visa (SIV)?
The SIV program was created by the US government for Afghan and Iraqi citizens who provided faithful and valuable service to the US during times of conflict. It’s a humanitarian pathway for individuals who may face danger due to their support of American missions.
The visa provides:
A green card
Permanent residence in the US
Path to US citizenship
Work and travel authorization
Education and health services for your family
Who is Eligible for the Afghan SIV Program?
At Immigway our culture comes to life through three core values:
Required Documents for the SIV Application
📄 Recommendation Letter
From a US citizen supervisor who can confirm your work and loyalty.
📄 HR Letter of Employment
Issued by your employer or contracting organization.
📄 Proof of Threat
This can include police reports, threats, or public records.
📄 Passport and Tazkira (Afghan ID)
📄 Form DS-157 and DS-260
These are the official application forms.
📄 Medical Exam Records
📄 Photographs (US visa-size format)
Step-by-Step Guide to Apply for the SIV
Make sure all your paperwork is in English or translated properly. Scan and organize your employment letters, ID documents, and reference letters.
Step 2: Submit the SIV Petition (I-360)
Send your I-360 petition to the National Visa Center (NVC). Include all supporting documents via email.
Step 3: Wait for COM Approval
The Chief of Mission (COM) will review your documents and approve your eligibility. You’ll receive a COM approval notice.
Step 4: Fill Out the DS-260 Form
Once approved, fill out the DS-260 online immigrant visa form. This is the official request for your visa processing.
Step 5: Attend the Visa Interview
You'll be scheduled for an interview at the US Embassy or Consulate in your country (often Pakistan or Qatar for Afghans). Bring original documents and be ready to explain your service.
Step 6: Wait for Visa Issuance
After the interview, you will be informed about visa issuance and travel instructions. The US may arrange relocation support or coordinate flights.
What If You Are in Danger Right Now?
📧 AfghanSIVApplication@state.gov
Or register with trusted agencies offering legal help:
International Refugee Assistance Project (IRAP)
No One Left Behind
Refugee Support Centers
They can speed up your application, advise you on safe locations, and connect you with American sponsors.
Bringing Your Family to the USA
👨👩👧👦 Your spouse
👦👧 Children under 21 years old
They will also receive green cards, education access, and work rights in the US.
Processing Time and Current Delays
Tip: Stay patient and always respond to any NVC or embassy request within 30 days to avoid delays.
Service Options
Apply for SIV Visa if You Served as Army Officer with the USA in Afghanistan
If you worked as an Army Officer or supported the U.S. Armed Forces in Afghanistan, you may qualify for a Special Immigrant Visa (SIV) to enter and resettle in the United States. The SIV program was specially created for Afghan nationals who provided honest, faithful, and valuable service to the U.S. military during its mission in Afghanistan. This visa offers a safe pathway for you and your family to live permanently in America.
Thousands of Afghan interpreters, security personnel, and officers like you were vital in maintaining peace and helping the U.S. government. If your work involved military support, combat collaboration, or logistics under the U.S. command, you are considered eligible to apply for the SIV program. The U.S. government recognizes your contributions and has a legal obligation to protect those who risked their lives to assist them.
To apply for the SIV visa, you must provide proof of employment with the U.S. military or NATO forces. This includes a letter of recommendation, identity documents, and confirmation from your former U.S. supervisors. If you still have your ID badge, employment certificate, or any official military papers — keep them safe, as they are necessary during your visa application process.
The application also includes a medical exam, an interview, and background checks for security clearance. The good news is, once approved, the SIV visa allows you to live and work legally in the United States. You can later apply for permanent residency (Green Card) and even U.S. citizenship. Many Afghan SIV holders have already resettled in safe cities across America with their families.
The U.S. Department of State is currently speeding up the SIV processing for those who are still in danger or under threat due to their past service. If you fear for your safety due to your work with the U.S. Army or government, don’t wait. Start gathering your documents now. Every proof, every document, and every recommendation helps.
Your years of service are respected, and the SIV program is a promise from the U.S. government — to honor and protect those who stood by them during conflict. Don’t let this opportunity go to waste. Apply today and secure a safer, brighter future for yourself and your loved ones.