The CRISIS Act creates a special immigrant visa pathway for Russian nationals who hold doctoral degrees in science, technology, engineering, or mathematics (STEM) fields and want to work in those fields in the United States. Up to 3,000 such immigrants (plus their spouses and children) could be admitted per year from 2026 through 2029, exempt from the usual annual immigration caps. Applicants must pass background checks and vetting equivalent to what refugees go through, including biometric screening and an in-person interview. The program sunsets after four fiscal years, though approved petitions remain valid after that date.
Congressional Summary
Countering Russian Innovation and Safeguarding Individual Scientists Act of 2025 or the CRISIS Act of 2025This bill makes certain Russian nationals with degrees in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) eligible to become permanent residents of the United States.Under the bill, special immigrant status may be given to Russian nationals (and their spouse and children) who have a U.S. doctoral degree or a foreign equivalent in a STEM field and are seeking work in a STEM field in the United States. Candidates must satisfy vetting and interview requirements set by the Department of Homeland Security.Up to 3,000 individuals may be admitted under this bill each fiscal year FY2026 through FY2029. Individuals admitted under this bill do not count towards other statutory numerical limitations for immigration.
Details
- Congress
- 119th
- Chamber
- House
- Status
- summarized
- Action
- Introduced in House
- Action Date
- 2025-05-21
- Date Added
- 2026-06-05
- Source
- Congress.gov →
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