Key Takeaways
01
The new Bridge visa replaces the Lincoln visa, featuring the Golden Gate Bridge for improved security and modernity.
02
It retains previous security features like biometric data and adds enhancements like new security fibers and printing.
03
Existing Lincoln visas remain valid; Bridge visa updates apply only to new applicants, ensuring continuity in the visa process.
The United States has rolled out a new visa design, known as the “Bridge visa foil,” replacing the old “Lincoln visa foil.” This redesign applies across all U.S. visa types, both nonimmigrant and immigrant. Here, we’ll explore what makes the Bridge visa unique, its features, and how it differs from the previous design, focusing on security and usability.
What is the Bridge Visa Foil?
The Bridge visa foil is a newly designed U.S. visa featuring the well-known Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco 🌉. It replaces the Lincoln visa foil, which displayed images of President Abraham Lincoln and the U.S. Capitol. This update is part of regular efforts to improve security and combat counterfeiting.
The switch to the Bridge visa started in late 2022. As consular offices ran out of Lincoln visa foils, they began issuing the new design. By 2023, all U.S. visas issued globally featured this new look.
Key Features of the New Bridge Visa Design
The Bridge visa foil retains many of the security features from the Lincoln visa but includes some upgrades:
- Visual Design: The Golden Gate Bridge gives the visa a modernized appearance.
- Security Fibers: New fibers are embedded, making forgery difficult.
- Detailed Printing: Advanced printing methods enhance clarity and authenticity.
- Biometric Data: Like the old design, the Bridge visa contains a digital photo and fingerprints to maintain security, as required by the Enhanced Border Security and Visa Entry Reform Act of 2002.
- Machine Readability: It stays readable by machines and tamper-resistant, working seamlessly with current immigration systems.
These enhancements are crucial for verifying the identities of those entering the United States and maintaining tight border security.
Validity of Existing Visas
If you hold a Lincoln visa, there’s no need to worry about this change. Your visa remains valid until its expiration date unless it’s revoked or canceled. This ensures a smooth transition for travelers holding valid visas.
Differences Between Bridge Visa and Lincoln Visa
| Feature | Lincoln Visa Foil | Bridge Visa Foil |
|---|---|---|
| Design | Abraham Lincoln and U.S. Capitol | Golden Gate Bridge |
| Introduction Year | 2002 | 2023 |
| Security Features | Security fibers, detailed printing, biometric data | Enhanced security fibers, detailed printing, biometric data |
| Purpose | Nonimmigrant and immigrant visas | Nonimmigrant and immigrant visas |
| Validity Transition | Valid until expiration date | Takes over as Lincoln visas run out |
Both designs serve a similar purpose and boast strong security features. The Bridge visa introduces improvements in document security and displays a refreshed design.
Why Was This Change Made?
The redesign of U.S. visas is part of the Department of State and Customs and Border Protection’s (CBP) continuous effort to improve security and reduce fraud. This process can take years and often starts in response to detected counterfeiting or new security needs.
According to the Enhanced Border Security and Visa Entry Reform Act of 2002, all U.S. visas must be tamper-resistant and include biometric data. These requirements help Customs and Border Protection officers to check travelers’ identities using both a visual look and biometric scanning at entry points.
Impact on Travelers
For those applying for a U.S. visa:
- New applicants will get a Bridge visa foil once their visa is approved.
- Those with valid Lincoln visas can continue using them without additional steps.
The introduction of the Bridge visa foil does not change the application process or criteria. It modifies the document’s appearance and security features, making it more secure and modern.
Conclusion
The introduction of the Bridge visa foil is a key step in updating U.S. travel documents while maintaining top security standards. Although the new design looks different, it serves the same purpose as a vital tool for managing entry into the United States.
People applying for a U.S. visa should be informed about these updates but rest assured that their valid Lincoln visas will still be recognized until they expire. This change mirrors ongoing efforts by U.S. immigration authorities to face new challenges, ensuring a secure travel experience for all visitors.
For more details on U.S. visa processes, one can visit the official U.S. Department of State website.
As reported by VisaVerge.com, such updates in visa design aim to reduce immigration fraud and keep pace with evolving security challenges.
Learn Today
Bridge Visa Foil: A new U.S. visa design featuring the Golden Gate Bridge, enhancing security and replacing the Lincoln visa foil.
Security Fibers: Embedded fibers in visa foils to complicate forgery and enhance document security.
Biometric Data: Digital photo and fingerprints included in visas to verify identity and prevent fraud, as mandated by the 2002 act.
Machine Readability: A feature allowing visas to be read by machines, ensuring secure and efficient processing at entry points.
Enhanced Border Security and Visa Entry Reform Act of 2002: Legislation requiring U.S. visas to include tamper-resistant features and biometric data.
This Article in a Nutshell
The U.S. Bridge visa foil, depicting the iconic Golden Gate Bridge, enhances security and authenticity in visa design. This innovative update replaces the Lincoln visa, incorporating advanced security fibers and modern printing technology. The new design strengthens fraud prevention and ensures seamless processing, reflecting America’s commitment to secure international travel.
— By VisaVerge.com
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