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Keep STEM Talent Act of 2021
12/30/2022, 8:03 AM
Summary of Bill HR 5924
Under the provisions of the Keep STEM Talent Act, eligible foreign students would be granted an additional 24 months of work authorization after completing their STEM degree programs. This extension would allow them to gain valuable work experience in the US and potentially transition to permanent residency status, thus helping to fill the gap in the STEM labor market.
The bill also includes measures to streamline the visa application process for STEM graduates, making it easier for them to secure employment in the US. Additionally, the legislation aims to incentivize STEM graduates to work in underserved areas by offering them the opportunity to apply for permanent residency after a certain period of employment in these regions. Overall, the Keep STEM Talent Act of 2021 is designed to support the growth and innovation of the US economy by retaining highly skilled individuals in the STEM fields. By providing opportunities for foreign students to contribute their expertise to American industries, the bill aims to strengthen the country's competitive edge in the global marketplace.
Congressional Summary of HR 5924
Keep STEM Talent Act of 2021
This bill exempts certain aliens with advanced degrees in a science, technology, engineering, or mathematics (STEM) field from direct limitations on the number of immigrant visas granted per year. Specifically, the alien must (1) have earned a master's level or higher degree in certain STEM fields while in the United States attending an accredited higher education institution, (2) be employed (or have a job offer) in a field related to the degree and earn at least the median wage for that occupation, and (3) meet certain labor certification requirements.
The bill also allows an alien seeking a nonimmigrant F-1 (student) visa to obtain an advanced STEM degree to have dual intent. Specifically, such an alien may obtain the nonimmigrant visa or change nonimmigrant status even if the alien intends to seek lawful permanent resident status. (Generally, an alien may be denied a nonimmigrant visa if the alien actually intends to seek immigrant status, unless dual intent is allowed for that type of visa.)
