A Republican senator in the United States has introduced a Bill proposing a three-year suspension on the issuance of new H-1B visasalong with sweeping reforms to the country’s skilled immigration programme. If enacted, the proposal could significantly impact thousands of foreign professionals, particularly from India, who rely on the H-1B visa to work in the US technology and engineering sectors.
The Bill aims to tighten eligibility rules, prioritise American workers and overhaul several key aspects of the existing visa system.
What The Bill Proposes
The proposed legislation, titled the End H-1B Abuse Actseeks to halt the issuance of new H-1B visas for three years. After the pause, the programme would resume under much stricter rules and lower annual limits.
The Bill also proposes reducing the annual H-1B visa cap from the current 85,000 visas (65,000 regular visas and 20,000 for advanced degree holders) to 25,000 visas.
Another major proposal is to replace the existing lottery-based selection system with a wage-based selection processgiving preference to higher-paying jobs.
Higher Salary And Visa Fee Requirements
The legislation proposes introducing a minimum salary threshold of USD 200,000 for H-1B workers.
It also seeks to formally introduce a USD 100,000 fee for every H-1B petition, reviving a policy that had previously been struck down by a US federal court.
Supporters of the Bill argue that these measures would discourage misuse of the visa programme while ensuring only genuinely specialised positions qualify.
Other Major Proposed Changes
The Bill includes several additional reforms that could significantly reshape skilled immigration in the United States.
It proposes ending the Optional Practical Training (OPT) programme for international students, preventing H-1B visa holders from bringing dependants, eliminating the “dual intent” provision that allows H-1B workers to apply for permanent residency, and banning third-party staffing models and concurrent employment.
Federal agencies would also be prohibited from sponsoring or employing non-immigrant visa holders under the proposal.
What It Means For Indian Professionals
India accounts for the overwhelming majority of H-1B visa recipients, particularly in the information technology sector. Any restrictions on the programme could affect Indian software engineers, technology professionals, researchers and students planning careers in the United States.
However, the Bill is only at the initial stage of the legislative process and must pass both the Senate and the House of Representatives before reaching the President for approval. Significant amendments are also possible before any final law is enacted.
Future Remains Uncertain
Immigration experts believe the proposal faces a long legislative journey, and there is no certainty that it will become law in its present form. Nevertheless, the Bill reflects the continuing debate in the United States over balancing domestic employment priorities with the demand for highly skilled international talent.
Professionals considering H-1B applications are expected to closely monitor future developments as the legislation progresses through Congress.
Summary
A US senator has introduced a Bill seeking a three-year pause on new H-1B visasreducing the annual cap to 25,000introducing a USD 200,000 salary threshold and reinstating a USD 100,000 visa fee. Although the proposal could significantly affect Indian professionals, it remains at an early legislative stage and must undergo multiple approvals before becoming law.
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