U.S. H-1B Visa Faces Uncertainty: Bill Introduced to End Program, EXILE Act Targets Foreign Workers

New Delhi / February 12, 2026: The H-1B visa program in the United States, widely used by skilled foreign workers, is facing fresh controversy. A Republican congressman has introduced a bill in the U.S. House of Representatives that could terminate the H-1B program by 2027, sparking concerns for thousands of foreign professionals, particularly from India.

What is the EXILE Act?
The bill, officially named the Ending Exploitative Imported Labor Exemption Act (EXILE Act), was introduced by Florida Congressman Greg Steube. If passed, the legislation would amend the Immigration and Nationality Act, effectively bringing the H-1B visa count to zero for the fiscal year 2027.

The H-1B visa allows U.S. companies to hire foreign workers in specialized fields such as technology, healthcare, and finance. Indian professionals have been among the largest beneficiaries, particularly in the tech sector. However, the program has long been controversial for allegedly prioritizing foreign workers over American citizens.

Congressman Greg Steube Speaks Out
Congressman Steube has openly criticized the H-1B program, claiming it disadvantages American workers and youth. “The H-1B program prioritizes foreign workers over American citizens, undermining our values and national interests,” he said. He added that American workers and young professionals are losing opportunities, with companies exploiting foreign labor at the expense of domestic employment. “We cannot hand over the American dream of our children to foreigners. This is why I am introducing the EXILE Act—to prioritize jobs for Americans,” Steube emphasized.

How the EXILE Act Works
According to the bill, Section 214(g)(1)(A) of the Immigration and Nationality Act, which governs H-1B visas, would be amended. Once the visa cap is exhausted, companies would no longer be able to file H-1B petitions or employ foreign workers under this program. In essence, the legislation would close the doors for foreign professionals seeking to work in the U.S.

The Congressman’s office also shared data highlighting that 80% of H-1B visas are granted to Indian and Chinese citizens, most of whom work in IT and technology. He cited that 10,000 American doctors are missing out on residency programs because 5,000 foreign doctors are filling positions under the H-1B visa.

If enacted, the EXILE Act could significantly reshape the U.S. workforce landscape, especially for skilled foreign workers who rely on the H-1B program for employment in America.