Bill Introduced To Pause H-1B Visas For 3 Years By Trump Aides

Republican Congressman Eli Crane has introduced the "End H-1B Visa Abuse Act of 2026," proposing a three-year pause on new H-1B visas to overhaul the program widely used by Indian tech professionals. The bill, supported by Trump allies like Brandon Gill and Paul Gosar, aims to prioritize American workers amid claims of wage suppression and job displacement. It seeks to amend the 1952 Immigration and Nationality Act during the moratorium.

Key reforms include slashing the annual cap from 65,000 to 25,000 visas, eliminating exemptions for nonprofits and universities, and replacing the lottery with wage-based selection requiring a minimum $200,000 salary. Employers must certify no qualified U.S. workers are available and attest to no recent layoffs. The legislation bans H-1B holders from multiple jobs, third-party placements, bringing dependents, and transitioning to green cards or OPT programs.

This move builds on President Trump's September 2025 proclamation imposing a $100,000 fee on new H-1B hires from abroad, which faced backlash but exempted renewals. Proponents argue it counters corporate offshoring incentives, forcing firms to invest in domestic talent. Critics warn of talent shortages in STEM fields, potentially harming U.S. innovation.

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The bill's passage remains uncertain in a divided Congress, but it signals intensified scrutiny on high-skilled immigration during Trump's second term. Indian IT firms like TCS and Infosys, major H-1B beneficiaries, brace for disruptions if enacted.With over 70% of H-1B visas going to Indians annually, the proposal reignites debates on merit-based systems versus protectionism. Tech lobbies prepare countermeasures as the moratorium could freeze thousands of opportunities.

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