Republicans Propose Major Overhaul of H-1B Visa Program with Three-Year Pause
US Republicans Propose 3-Year Pause On H-1B Visas, Seek Major Overhaul
News 18
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A group of Republican lawmakers in the United States has introduced the 'End H-1B Visa Abuse Act of 2026,' proposing a three-year pause on H-1B visas and significant reforms. The bill aims to prioritize American workers by reducing the annual visa cap and implementing stricter regulations on employment and wage requirements.
- 01The proposed bill seeks a three-year pause on H-1B visas and aims to restructure the program.
- 02Annual H-1B visa cap would be reduced from 65,000 to 25,000, with a minimum salary threshold of $200,000.
- 03Employers must certify that no qualified American worker is available before hiring H-1B visa holders.
- 04The bill would end the Optional Practical Training (OPT) program and restrict visa holders from bringing dependents.
- 05The proposal has received support from several Republican lawmakers and aims to prioritize American jobs.
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A coalition of Republican lawmakers in the United States has introduced the 'End H-1B Visa Abuse Act of 2026,' which proposes a three-year pause on the issuance of H-1B visas, along with a comprehensive overhaul of the visa program. The bill, led by Representative Eli Crane, aims to restructure the H-1B system to prioritize American workers over foreign labor. Key provisions include reducing the annual visa cap from 65,000 to 25,000, implementing a minimum salary threshold of $200,000, and requiring employers to prove that no qualified American worker is available for the job. The proposal also seeks to eliminate the Optional Practical Training (OPT) program, restrict visa holders from bringing dependents, and prevent third-party staffing agencies from employing H-1B workers. Supporters argue that the current system has led to the replacement of American workers with cheaper foreign labor, while critics maintain that the program is essential for addressing skill shortages in the U.S. economy. This legislation reflects ongoing political debates regarding immigration and labor in the United States, particularly concerning the role of foreign workers in specialized fields such as technology and engineering.
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The proposed changes could significantly affect the job market for skilled workers in the U.S., potentially limiting employment opportunities for foreign professionals while prioritizing American workers.
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