Rep. Foushee Introduces Legislation to Extend Visas for International STEM Students Graduating From U.S. Universities

DURHAM, NC (May 7, 2026) - Today, Congresswoman Valerie Foushee (NC-04) introduced the Stop the Brain Drain Act, which would help retain STEM talent in the United States by amending the Immigration and Nationality Act to codify the Optional Practical Training program and extend the period foreign students on F-1 (student) visas can remain in the U.S. for advanced training and employment authorization for a period up to 24 months.

"Keeping our nation's doors open to international STEM students who are graduating from our universities is critical to ensuring that we retain skilled nurses in our hospitals, talented engineers in our labs, and forward-thinking researchers who are innovating and pushing the boundaries of what is possible," said Congresswoman Foushee. "Upon graduation, international students are put on a 1-year clock to find someone to sponsor their visa or be forced to return home. This timeline is increasingly unrealistic with Trump's economy and is causing us to lose STEM talent that call our country home. My bill will ensure that the incredible students who come here to learn, grow, and pursue their dreams have the opportunity to stay and build their futures here in the United States."

This legislation would allow foreign nationals on F-1 (student) visas to receive a 24-month extension for practical training and employment authorization following the completion of their course of study. F-1 visa holders who completed a degree in science, technology, engineering, mathematics, or nursing may qualify for an additional 24-month extension, for a total of up to 48 months. This secondary extension reflects the high demand for skilled professionals in these fields and encourages foreign graduates to contribute their expertise to the U.S. workforce.

"International nurses are highly trained professionals who fill critical roles across our health system, and the current OPT framework creates unnecessary gaps that force talented, U.S.-trained nurses out of the workforce just as they are hitting their stride. This legislation is a practical, targeted fix that protects continuity of care and keeps experienced nurses at the bedside where patients need them most. Duke strongly supports Congresswoman Foushee's efforts to turn advocacy into action," said Terry McDonnell, Senior Vice President & Chief Nurse Executive, Duke University Health System and Vice Dean for Clinical Affairs, Duke University School of Nursing.

"International students play an important role in strengthening America's research enterprise and global economic competitiveness. UNC-Chapel Hill appreciates Congresswoman Foushee's leadership on legislation that recognizes the value of retaining highly trained graduates in critical STEM and health fields and supports continued innovation, discovery, and workforce growth here in North Carolina and across the country," said Kelly Dockham, Director of Federal Affairs, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.

The full bill text of the Stop the Brain Drain Act is available here.