White House Paves Way for Global AI Talent with New Immigration Initiatives
On October 30, 2023, the White House announced a new executive order focusing on the responsible advancement of artificial intelligence (AI). Notably, Section 5 of the order highlights initiatives to bolster the U.S. AI workforce by improving immigration processes. Here's a summary of the main points from this section:
Encouraging AI Talent: The U.S. aims to make it easier for AI professionals from abroad to work or study in the country. Steps will be taken to speed up visa processing times and ensure ample visa appointments for these individuals.
Reviewing Exchange Visitor Skills: Within four months, there will be a consideration to update the criteria for designating countries and skills that contribute to the Exchange Visitor Skills List. This involves contemplating adjustments to a list from 2009 and looking into a domestic visa renewal system, ensuring skilled AI professionals can continue their U.S. endeavors without undue disruptions.
Expanding Domestic Visa Renewal Categories: Plans are in motion to consider widening the scope of the domestic visa renewal program to include specific scholars and students in STEM fields. There's also an initiative to pinpoint and engage top global AI talents, informing them about opportunities in the U.S.
Modernizing Immigration Paths: The Secretary of Homeland Security will be reviewing policies to update immigration avenues for AI and other critical and emerging technology specialists. This includes enhancing policies related to O-1A and EB-1 nonimmigrants of extraordinary ability; EB-2 advanced-degree holders and individuals of exceptional ability; and startup founders in AI and other critical and emerging technologies using the International Entrepreneur Rule. Moreover, enhancements to the H-1B program are on the horizon, along with considerations for these professionals and their families to become lawful permanent residents.
Occupations in Demand: Within a month and a half, public input will be sought to determine AI and STEM jobs that have a shortage of U.S. workers.
Support for AI Professionals: Both the Secretary of State and the Secretary of Homeland Security will utilize their authority to assist and attract foreign experts in AI wanting to work, study, or research in the U.S.
Information Dissemination: By the end of four months, a comprehensive guide for AI experts about working in the U.S. will be made available in various languages. Additionally, a public report will be released detailing the utilization of the immigration system by these professionals up to the end of Fiscal Year 2023.
In essence, the U.S. government is taking proactive steps to strengthen its position as a global leader in AI by welcoming and retaining international talent in this domain.
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