The European Commission is urging member states to streamline visa processes for U.S. researchers amid growing concerns over science funding cuts in America, Commissioner Ekaterina Zaharieva announced Wednesday. The initiative aims to capitalize on what EU officials describe as a "historic opportunity" to attract displaced scientific talent.
Research ministers from across the bloc will convene May 23 to coordinate strategies for welcoming American researchers facing budget reductions under current U.S. administration policies. The commission plans to propose enhanced intergovernmental cooperation frameworks to simplify relocation processes.
Zaharieva revealed parallel efforts to strengthen Europe's research ecosystem through legislation, including the proposed 2026 European Research Area Act that would codify scientific freedom protections. "We must position Europe as the global standard-bearer for research innovation," she stated.
The announcements follow last week\u2019s unveiling of a \u20ac500 million incentive program (2025-2027) targeting elite international researchers. This comes as a Nature journal survey found 75% of U.S. scientists considering overseas opportunities, with Europe ranking high among preferred destinations.
Analysts suggest the EU's moves could reshape global research dynamics, particularly in emerging fields like AI and climate technology where international collaboration drives progress.
