The U.S. government is changing visa requirements to make it easier for many foreign scientists and science students to study in the United States.
A spokeswoman for the Department of Homeland Security said the change in visa policy sends a clear message that the United States encourages those with great scientific minds to work or study here.
The new visa requirement will allow international students to keep their security clearance for up to four years of study. Previously, the security clearance, known as Visa Mantis, was separate from other visa procedures, and could expire while a student visa was still valid.
The changed requirements will also allow visiting workers in scientific or technological fields to stay for two years.
The changes also speed up the security clearances.
Some information for this report provided by AP.