The GRATEFUL Act creates a new visa allocation program for foreign nationals employed by the U.S. Government abroad, including staff at the State Department, USAID, Department of Defense, and other federal agencies who have provided at least 15 years of exceptional service. Starting in fiscal year 2024, the bill dedicates up to 3,500 visas for these government employees and their immediate family members when visas are not otherwise available, reducing to 3,000 visas annually in subsequent years. The legislation recognizes that these employees work in dangerous conditions supporting U.S. foreign policy and national security while risking their lives in conflict zones and disaster areas. To fund these dedicated visas, the bill temporarily reduces the diversity visa program, though the reduction is limited and will not apply in years when no government employee visas are issued. The bill aims to preserve an immigrant visa program that has existed since 1952 by ensuring these loyal foreign service workers have a reliable pathway to permanent residency in the United States.
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