In an attempt to attract students in the fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) the white house initiated a new program:
- Early Career training for J-1 students – College and university STEM students will be qualified for an extension of stay for training in the US . The maximum total length of their academic training is capped at 36 months
- F-1 Students OPT new options– OPT is temporary employment in the US that is directly related to an F-1 student’s major area of study. The new program added 22 new fields of study will be included in the STEM Optional Practical Training (OPT) program for F-1 students. The program permits F-1 students earning Bachelors, Masters, and Doctorates in the US for certain STEM fields to remain in the US for up to 36 months to complete Optional Practical Training.
- O1A “Extraordinary Ability” – The new policy allows more flexibility for the qualification , in the science, technology, engineering, or math (STEM) fields. USCIS emphasizes that officers may consider any potentially relevant evidence, even if a particular piece of evidence is not included in the O1A eligibility criteria.
- National Visa Interest (green card) – New policy allows the petitioners whose work is in the national interest in the STAM field and entrepreneurs to petition for themselves, without a US employer. Letters from governmental and quasi-governmental entities will be accepted for proof for National Interest