Republican members of Congress from the US have come up with an act that will completely change the H-1B visa program, including plans for a three-year ban on the issuance of new visas.
This act is named the “End H-1B Visa Abuse Act of 2026,” and its lead sponsor is Eli Crane. It is supported by other Republicans like Brandon Gill, Paul Gosar, and Andy Ogles.
If passed, the bill would pause the H-1B programme for three years while implementing stricter eligibility and hiring rules.
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What the bill proposes
There are several major modifications in the bill under consideration with respect to the current visa program. They include reducing the number of annual allotments from 65,000 to 25,000 and removing all existing exceptions to the rule. Instead of the current system of random selection, there will be introduced a merit system based on salary with preference to those who receive more money.
Moreover, there is going to be established a minimum salary level equal to $200,000 per annum for foreigners. Besides, the employer must be able to provide the certification concerning the absence of qualified American workers and layoffs among employees. There are certain restrictions too, which do not allow multiple employment and using third parties.
Further provisions aim to end the Optional Practical Training (OPT) programme and restrict dependents from accompanying visa holders.
Political backing and criticism
Supporters of the bill argue that the current H-1B system disadvantages American workers. “The federal government should work for hardworking citizens, not the profit margins of massive corporations,” Crane said while introducing the proposal.
Backers such as Gosar and Ogles have taken a stronger stance, calling for tighter controls and accusing companies of relying on cheaper foreign labour.
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The proposal has also received support from advocacy groups. Immigration Accountability Project co-founder Rosemary Jenks described it as one of the strongest H-1B reform bills introduced in Congress.
What it means for global workforce
The H-1B visa programme allows US companies to hire skilled foreign workers, particularly in technology and engineering sectors. Indian professionals have historically been among the largest beneficiaries of the scheme.
These reforms may well have far-reaching consequences for international labor flows and the US technology sector, which is highly dependent on the contributions of foreign talent.
Whereas opponents of the program claim that it reduces pay and denies opportunities to native-born workers, proponents from the business community insist that it is crucial for overcoming shortages in skills and fostering innovation.
