CRISIS Act of 2025

The "CRISIS Act of 2025" proposes to establish a special immigrant status for certain Russian nationals with advanced degrees in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields. This initiative aims to attract highly skilled individuals to the United States, allowing them to work in their specialized areas without requiring a prior job offer. Eligibility for this status is limited to Russian nationals who have earned a doctoral degree in a STEM field, either in the U.S. or an equivalent foreign degree, and intend to work in that field within the United States. Spouses and children of eligible principal aliens may also receive this status. Applicants must undergo a thorough background check and screening process, with vetting requirements equivalent to those for refugees admitted through the U.S. Refugee Admissions Program, including an in-person interview. The bill sets a numerical limit of 3,000 principal aliens per year for fiscal years 2026 through 2029, with these admissions being exempt from general immigration numerical limitations. The Secretary of Homeland Security is directed to process petitions within 90 days where practicable. The authority to grant this special immigrant status will terminate at the end of the fourth full fiscal year following the Act's enactment.