The CW-1 and CW-2 classes of admission (COA) are for the CNMI-only Transitional Worker Program. This program allows foreign nationals who are not eligible for another Immigration and Nationality Act (INA)-based employment authorized nonimmigrant status to perform work in the CNMI during the transitional period from CNMI immigration law to U.S. immigration law (i.e., the INA). The transitional period is from November 28, 2009 through December 31, 2014. However, on June 3, 2014, the CW-1 program was extended until December 31, 2019.

The CW-1 COA is for the principal transitional worker. A CW-1 is authorized to engage in employment. Accept evidence of nonimmigrant status showing CW-1 as evidence of employment authorized immigration status.

NOTE: Follow RM 10211.140 for instructions on entering the evidence of nonimmigrant status in the Enumeration System.

The CW-2 COA is for the spouse or minor child of the CW-1. A CW-2 cannot engage in employment and is not eligible to apply for a Form I-766 card (Employment Authorization Document (EAD). A CW-2 may be eligible for a nonwork SSN in the rare situation when the individual meets requirements for a nonwork SSN.

NOTE: Follow RM 10211.140 for instructions on entering the evidence of nonimmigrant status in the Enumeration System.

See details:

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  RM 10211.600, Requests for an SSN from an Alien without Work Authorization

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  RM 10211.610, Valid Reasons to Assign an SSN for Nonwork Purposes