Immigration of Foreign Nationals with Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) Degrees
Summary
Congress is renewing its interest in facilitating the immigration of foreign professional workers in science, technology, engineering, or mathematics (STEM) fields. The STEM workforce is seen by many as a catalyst of U.S. global economic competitiveness and is likewise considered a key element of the legislative options aimed at stimulating economic growth. "STEM visa" is a shorthand for an expedited immigration avenue that enables foreign nationals with graduate degrees in STEM fields to adjust their immigration status to legal permanent residence (LPR) without waiting in the queue of numerically-limited LPR visas.
Note: CRS reports are prepared for Members of Congress and their staffs. This summary is provided for informational purposes and does not constitute legal advice.
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