Not One or Two, But Four Bills Target H-1B: Latest Updates on U.S. Work Visa

The H-1B visa program in the United States is facing increasing scrutiny and political opposition. Lawmakers are calling for its repeal, introducing multiple bills aimed at ending the program, creating uncertainty for foreign workers.

H-1B Controversy

H-1B visas allow U.S. companies to hire foreign workers for specialized roles, mainly in sectors like technology, finance, and healthcare. Every year, 85,000 H-1B visas are issued, of which 20,000 are reserved for students graduating from U.S. universities. Critics argue that companies use the program to hire cheaper foreign labor, which they claim displaces American workers—sparking ongoing debates and legislative action.

Recently, a Republican congressman from Florida introduced the EXILE Act, seeking to terminate the H-1B visa. This bill is one among four key proposals targeting the visa program.

The Four Bills at a Glance

1. EXILE Act
   Introduced by Florida Congressman Greg Steube, the “Ending Exploitative Imported Labor Exemption Act” (EXILE Act) proposes changes to the Immigration and Nationality Act that would eliminate H-1B visas starting fiscal year 2027. If passed, this law would permanently end the program.
2. PAUSE Act
   In November 2025, Republican Congressman Chip Roy from Texas proposed the “Pausing on Admission Until Security Ensured (PAUSE) Act,” which seeks a temporary halt on all forms of immigration, including H-1B visas. The act also calls for ending Optional Practical Training (OPT), a program that allows international students to work in the U.S. after completing their degrees.
3. H-1B and L-1 Visa Reform Act
   Introduced by Republican Chuck Grassley (Iowa) and Democrat Dick Durbin (Illinois) in 2025, this bill proposes stricter regulations for all visa categories. It suggests that job authorization should be granted only to candidates with a U.S. university degree or an equivalent foreign qualification.
4. End H-1B Now Act
   Former Congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene introduced the “End H-1B Now Act” in January 2026 before resigning from Congress. The bill proposes terminating the H-1B program while granting limited exceptions for medical professionals.

Current Status

None of these bills have been passed by the House or Senate. At present, they are largely seen as political statements rather than imminent law changes. Nevertheless, the debate has intensified uncertainty for international students and skilled workers who rely on the H-1B visa for long-term employment in the U.S.

As the situation develops, foreign workers and students should stay informed about potential legislative changes and plan their U.S. career pathways accordingly.