EU aims to attract U.S. researchers with expedited visas

The European Commission is urging the EU countries to speed up visa procedures in a bid to attract U.S. researchers, European Commissioner for Startups, Research and Innovation Ekaterina Zaharieva said on Wednesday.

Zaharieva noted that EU research ministers are scheduled to meet on May 23 to discuss strategies for attracting U.S.-based scientists seeking to leave the country in light of Trump administration's ongoing budget cuts to science and research.

She added that the commission plans to introduce proposals to enhance coordination among EU member states on this front.

In a broader effort to strengthen Europe's research environment, the Commission intends to enshrine scientific freedom into law under the upcoming European Research Area Act, which Zaharieva is expected to propose in 2026.

"Let's use this momentum, this opportunity, and attract the brightest and best talents of the world," Zaharieva said.

Last week, the commission announced the launch of a half-billion-euro research incentive program for 2025-2027, aimed at drawing top-tier scientific talent globally.

In recent months, the U.S. government has continued to cut research funding and lay off scientists, prompting a growing number of American researchers to seek opportunities abroad.

A survey published by the British scientific journal Nature in late March revealed that approximately 75 percent of surveyed U.S. scientists were considering leaving the country as the current U.S. administration has disrupted their future career plans. Europe and Canada ranked among the most favored destinations.