US suspends Microsoft, major IT firms from key green card program - Reuters

The U.S. government announced on Thursday that it is suspending a number of technology and consulting firms from a program that facilitates the issuance of green cards to skilled foreign workers. The suspension applies to Microsoft, Adobe, Capgemini, Cognizant, HCL Technologies, Infosys, Tata Consultancy Services and Wipro. The administration said the companies were involved in fraudulent practices related to the program.

U.S. Vice President JD Vance addressed the decision at a news conference, stating that while the companies are valued American businesses, they must prioritize hiring American workers. Labor Secretary Keith Sonderling added that the government will not accept any new or pending permanent labor certification applications from the listed firms while the suspension remains in effect.

The program in question is part of the broader employment-based immigration system that includes H‑1B visas, which are intended for highly skilled positions that U.S. employers may find difficult to fill domestically. Tech firms have historically been among the largest users of these visas, with a significant share of approvals going to workers from India.

In addition to the corporate suspensions, the administration said it will investigate nine universities, including Harvard, Yale and Stanford, for alleged misuse of a separate program that allows international students to study in the United States. Officials claim the universities may have been facilitating practices that depress wages for American workers.

The suspensions and investigations are part of a wider effort by the administration to tighten oversight of immigration pathways that impact the labor market. No immediate comment was received from Microsoft or Adobe regarding the actions.