The PHDs First Act would make it easier for foreign students who earn doctoral degrees from accredited U.S. universities to become permanent residents. Currently, these individuals must navigate lengthy visa processes and face numerical caps on employment-based green cards. This bill removes those caps for doctoral degree holders who have a job offer in a field related to their degree, earn above the median wage for that occupation, and have an approved labor certification. The legislation also allows international students pursuing doctorates to openly state they intend to stay in the U.S. and seek permanent residency without jeopardizing their student visa status—a change that removes a current restriction requiring students to prove they plan to return home. The bill aims to retain highly educated talent in the American workforce without specifying a timeline or dedicated funding.
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