In an effort to keep international students in the U.S. after graduation, a new bill has been introduced in the House. The Keep STEM Graduates in America Act (HR 9023) proposes making it easier to retain U.S. educated talent in the country. Among the recommendations are increasing the number of available visas, provide more flexible extension policies for recent graduates, and streamlining the H-1B process.
The proposal, introduced in the U.S. House of Representatives, is meant to keep STEM graduates (science, technology, engineering, math) from qualifying U.S. universities in the country after graduation. Recognizing foreign graduates in STEM fields have significantly contributed to growth and innovation in the U.S., the bill aims to make it easier for qualifying STEM graduates to remain in the country.
Currently, the H-1B cap visa has a maximum of 65,000 visas per year, as set in 2023. Although the suggested increase is not specified, the Act suggests increasing the number. In additional, providing more flexible extension policies is suggested. This removes the often-limiting timelines currently available to recent qualifying college graduates to find employment. Of course, this Act is simply proposed.
As always, ILBSG actively monitors ongoing proposals and updates to U.S. immigration policy. If you have questions about any employment-based or family-based visa issue, contact us. Our team of experienced attorneys work directly with our clients to ensure they get the right advice.
