US Suspends Major IT Firms from Green Card Program Amid Hiring Concerns

WASHINGTON: The US government has announced the suspension of Microsoft, Adobe, and several other prominent IT firms from a key green card program that facilitates permanent residency for skilled foreign workers. This decision, revealed by senior officials on Thursday, is attributed to allegations of fraud and aims to encourage these companies to prioritize hiring American workers.

US Vice President JD Vance emphasized the need for these companies to focus on local talent, stating, “Our message to Microsoft is: You’re a great American company, but you’ve got to hire great American workers.” He further criticized Microsoft for allegedly abusing the green card system more than any other company in the nation. Secretary of Labour Keith Sonderling confirmed that other major firms, including Cognizant, Infosys, Tata, Wipro, HCL, and Capgemini, will also face similar suspensions.

This suspension could have significant implications for the tech industry, which heavily relies on foreign talent to fill skill gaps. The move reflects a broader trend in US immigration policy aimed at protecting domestic job markets, potentially leading to a shortage of skilled workers in the tech sector and affecting innovation and growth.

As the situation develops, further investigations into the hiring practices of these companies are expected. The US government may implement stricter regulations and oversight on employment-based immigration programs, which could reshape the landscape for foreign workers seeking opportunities in the United States.