Stir in US Parliament, preparation for 3-year ban on H-1B visa, jobs of Indian IT giants in danger.

News India Live, Digital Desk: The ‘American dream’ now seems to be turning into a nightmare for Indian professionals. An explosive bill has been introduced in the US Parliament (Congress), which, if made into law, could completely ban the issuance of H-1B visas for the next three years. This proposal named ‘End H-1B Visa Abuse Act of 2026’ has created a stir from Silicon Valley to Bengaluru. This step is being considered the toughest attack on the Trump administration’s ‘America First’ policy. What is the ‘inside story’ of this controversial bill? This bill, introduced by Republican MP Eli Crane, argues that big companies are ignoring the interests of American workers in favor of cheap foreign labor. According to the proposal, a complete ‘freeze’ should be imposed on new H-1B visas for the next three years. Not only this, when this program starts again after three years, the annual quota should be reduced from 65,000 to only 25,000. This is a big blow to thousands of Indian software engineers and students who hope to go to America every year. $200,000 salary and end of ‘lottery’ This bill is not limited to just reducing the numbers, but it advocates changing the selection process itself. Till now, there has been talk of abolishing the luck-dependent ‘lottery system’ and adopting ‘salary-based’ selection. The proposal suggests increasing the minimum salary limit to $200,000 (approximately ₹1.67 crore). Experts say that paying such huge salaries will not be within the reach of every company, which will make it almost impossible for Indians to stay there. Also, there are preparations for strict restrictions on visa holders staying with their families (dependents). ‘Double blow’ on Indian IT sector and students. This news is also scary for India because more than 70% of those who get H-1B visas are Indians. If this bill is passed, not only will there be a ban on new recruitments, but the ‘OPT’ (work permit) available to Indian students studying in America may also end. Lakhs of professionals waiting for green card will also be left in limbo. However, the bill is still in its initial stages and will need 60 votes in the Senate to become law, which is a big challenge. Nevertheless, this proposal has created an environment of uncertainty in the international job market.