h 1b visa

A proposed US bill could significantly disrupt job and residency prospects for thousands of Indian professionals. The 'End H-1B Visa Abuse Act of 2026' seeks a three-year pause on new H-1B visas and a drastic reduction in the annual cap, alongside a steep $200,000 salary threshold.

An American entrepreneur's X post downplaying H-1B visa holders' impact on US jobs has ignited a fierce online debate. He argued H-1B workers are a tiny fraction of the workforce, especially in STEM. Critics, however, countered that his analysis overlooks crucial factors like spouse visas and the true scale of H-1B employment, asserting real job losses for Americans.

US businesses are witnessing significantly higher H-1B visa selection rates, with some reporting over 50% success. This surge follows the Department of Homeland Security's shift from a random lottery to a wage-weighted system, prioritizing higher salary offers. The new rule, effective February 27, 2026, aims to reshape the selection process for skilled foreign workers.

US Vice President JD Vance emphasized that while immigrants enrich America, new citizens must prioritize their American identity. Speaking at a Turning Point USA event, Vance acknowledged the economic contributions of H-1B visa holders, including his Indian-origin in-laws, but warned against fraud and misuse.

Two California residents, Sampath Rajidi and Sreedhar Mada, have admitted guilt in a significant H-1B visa fraud scheme. They fabricated job offers linked to the University of California to secure visas for foreign workers, who were then placed with other companies. This deception bypassed legitimate applicants and misled immigration authorities.

US legal immigration, particularly for students and skilled workers, has seen a steeper decline than illegal entries under the Trump administration. International students face increased visa hurdles and uncertainty, while H-1B visa issuances are pressured by higher fees and stricter rules. This trend risks impacting US innovation and competitiveness.

Today’s immigration battles in the US echo older fights over race, labour, security and belonging. How have these waves reshaped the country across nearly 250 years?