US Bill Seeks Three-Year H-1B Visa Pause
US Bill Seeks Three-Year H-1B Visa Pause
A group of Republican lawmakers has introduced a bill in the US Congress seeking a three-year pause on new H-1B visas, a move that could affect skilled foreign workers, including a large number of Indian professionals.
H-1B Visa Pause Bill Introduced
The bill, named the End H-1B Visa Abuse Act of 2026, has been introduced by Republican Congressman Eli Crane of Arizona. It proposes a 36-month suspension on the issuance of new H-1B visas.
The H-1B programme allows US companies to hire skilled foreign workers in specialised occupations, especially in technology, engineering, healthcare, research and higher education. Indians have traditionally been the largest beneficiary group under the programme.
Proposed Changes To H-1B Rules
The proposed legislation seeks major changes to the H-1B system after the three-year pause. It calls for reducing the annual visa cap, increasing wage requirements for employers and tightening rules to ensure companies first attempt to hire American workers.
The bill also proposes stronger enforcement against companies accused of using the programme to replace American employees with lower-cost foreign workers. Supporters of the legislation argue that the visa system has been misused and needs stricter safeguards.
H-4 And OPT Rules Also Targeted
The bill also seeks to end the H-4 visa programme, which allows spouses and dependents of H-1B workers to live in the United States. It also proposes restrictions on Optional Practical Training, a pathway often used by international students after completing their studies.
The proposal has only been introduced in Congress and has not become law. It would need to pass through the legislative process before any changes take effect.
