Washington: A new piece of legislation in the United States is set to trigger intense debate over skilled immigration, with potential ripple effects for thousands of foreign workers. Titled the End H-1B Visa Abuse Act of 2026, the bill has been introduced by Congressman Eli Crane and proposes sweeping changes to the existing visa framework.
At the heart of the proposal is a temporary halt on new H-1B visas for three years, along with a sharp reduction in the annual quota—from 65,000 to just 25,000. The bill also introduces a steep minimum salary requirement of $200,000, a move that would significantly narrow eligibility to only the highest-paying roles.
Supporters of the legislation, including Republican lawmakers such as Paul Gosar and Brandon Gill, argue that the current system disadvantages American workers. They claim that some companies have relied on the programme to hire lower-cost foreign labour instead of investing in domestic talent. The proposal reflects a broader push within sections of the Republican Party to tighten employment-based immigration, a stance long associated with Donald Trump.
Beyond visa caps and salary thresholds, the bill outlines additional restrictions that could fundamentally alter the programme’s structure. It seeks to prevent H-1B holders from bringing family members, eliminate pathways to permanent residency, and discontinue the Optional Practical Training (OPT) programme, which allows international students to work temporarily after graduation. It also proposes limiting the hiring of non-immigrant workers by federal agencies.
Immigration policy expert Rosemary Jenks, who contributed to drafting the bill, described it as one of the most far-reaching reform proposals in recent years. She argued that the H-1B system has drifted from its original intent of addressing short-term skill shortages and that stricter rules could push companies to invest more in local hiring, even at higher costs.
For Indian professionals, who make up a large share of H-1B visa recipients—particularly in technology and healthcare—the proposed changes could be significant. The higher salary bar and reduced visa numbers may limit opportunities, while restrictions on dependents and permanent residency could make the programme less attractive overall.
The bill also builds on earlier signals of tighter immigration controls, including proposals linked to the Trump camp that suggested imposing hefty fees on H-1B applications.
As the legislation moves forward, it is expected to face scrutiny from both lawmakers and industry groups, many of whom rely heavily on global talent. The coming weeks are likely to see vigorous debate in Congress over the future direction of the H-1B visa system and its broader economic implications.
