Are you a scientist, engineer, tech innovator, or medical professional planning to advance your career through international collaboration in the United States? The National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine (NASEM) just dropped a bombshell report—and if you’re in STEM, this is one news alert you can’t afford to miss.
The new visa survey, conducted by NASEM’s Board on International Scientific Organizations (BISO) and the International Visitors Office (IVO), reveals the raw truth about the obstacles global STEM professionals face when trying to enter the U.S. for short-term professional activities like conferences, seminars, research collaborations, or workshops.
Let’s break it down.
The U.S. is Still a Top STEM Destination — But at What Cost?
According to the NASEM BISO/IVO Visa Survey Report, 95% of global STEM professionals say attending U.S.-based professional events (like conferences, seminars, or short-term collaborations) is crucial for their careers. And why not? The U.S. offers:
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- High-impact networking
- World-class facilities and labs
- Access to leading minds in innovation and research
But here’s the problem…
Visa Issues Blocking Global Talent to Fill STEM Skill Shortages in US
Visa-related obstacles are making it hard for many to step foot on U.S. soil:
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- 40% of respondents couldn’t attend U.S. professional activities due to visa issues
- 38% faced difficulty scheduling interviews
- 22% were hit by administrative delays
- 12% couldn’t get interview slots before the event
- Some professionals even stopped applying altogether
️ “I had to withdraw my accepted paper from a U.S. conference due to visa delays. I published it in Europe instead—where it won an award.” — Survey Respondent from Pakistan
A Shift Away from U.S. Collaborations?
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- 30% of respondents said they avoid applying for U.S. visas due to the process’s complexity
- 27% have actively stopped collaborating with U.S.-based institutions
- European and Asian hubs are gaining more traction as go-to destinations for international STEM talent
BUT WAIT — Here’s What the U.S. is Doing for STEM Talent in 2025
The United States is fully aware of the growing STEM talent crunch — and in 2025, the government and institutions have stepped up their game:
1# New Bipartisan STEM Retention Bill
Introduced in April 2025, this new legislation by Senators Dick Durbin and Mike Rounds aims to create a clear pathway for international STEM graduates to remain and work in the U.S. after completing their advanced degrees.
Goal: Retain global talent educated at U.S. universities.
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2# 2025 Federal Strategic Plan for STEM Education & Talent
The Biden-Harris Administration launched a 5-year roadmap in late 2024 to build STEM capacity, improve diversity and accessibility, and modernize the workforce to stay globally competitive.
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3# Major Overhaul of the EB-1A “Einstein Visa”
The U.S. has expanded and simplified eligibility for the EB-1A visa, widely known as the “Einstein Visa,” to attract top-tier talent in science, AI, biotech, and engineering.
New policies allow broader evidence types for exceptional ability
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What You Should Do as a STEM Professional in 2025?
If you’re eyeing a STEM career or collaboration in the U.S., here’s how to prepare:
✅ Start early — Visa processes can take up to a year.
✅ Gather your documents — Be ready with institutional invitations and financial proof
✅ Tap into support — Ask your U.S. partner or host university to guide you
✅ Stay updated on policy changes — Like those listed above
✅ Consider backup opportunities in Europe or Canada — Many are STEM-hungry too!
Final Take: Challenge + Opportunity = Be Smart, Not Sorry!
The U.S. is still a global STEM powerhouse—but the journey to enter isn’t always smooth. The NASEM report sheds light on the struggles, while new 2025 policies show that change is happening. It’s a mixed bag, but if you prepare well and stay informed, there’s still plenty of room for international STEM talent to thrive in America.
So whether you’re planning your first U.S. conference or aiming to land a permanent research position—know what’s ahead and take control of your 2025 STEM journey.
