rrorists. Sharry believes the right way to do so is take the fight to the terrorists, and to create better programs to keep potential terrorists out of the United States. According to Sharry, there has been a government backlash against immigrants and refugees which Sharry believes is counterproductive to the extent that it tends to handicap U.S. companies interested in hiring individuals with advanced degrees or technical skills. Sharry writes that the United States must allocate more resources to separate the enemies of the United States from visitors and visa applicants who do not pose a threat and who can help foster innovation and growth in this economy (Sharry, 2002).
Changes in visa procedures reflect the federal government's commitment to ensuring the safety of U.S. residents and visitors alike, not to make it more difficult for legitimate travelers to enter the United States. According to the State Department website, following the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001, certain changes to the process of granting visas were initiated. The United States now requires additional application forms and security clearances. As a result, visa applications take longer to process. Applicants will not be granted a visa if, in the judgment of the consular officer, they have not met all of the necessary criteria or in some way pose a threat to the United States. Also, all male nonimmigrant visa applicants between the ages of 16 and 45, regardless of nationality or other factors, must now complete a supplemental application form which helps inform the consular officer's judgment about visa eligibility. Consular officers have the authority to require anyone from any country to complete visa forms if they think it is warranted.
All student and exchange visitors, regardless of nationality or other factors, must complete a supplemental application form which helps inform the consular officer's judgment about visa eligibility. Applicants ...