U.S. Congress Proposes H-1B Visa Overhaul with Three-Year Freeze and $200,000 Salary Floor
Why it matters
On April 27, 2026, a bill was introduced in the U.S. Congress to restructure the H-1B visa program. The proposed legislation includes a three-year pause on the issuance of new H-1B visas. For applicants following this moratorium, the bill establishes a minimum annual salary threshold of $200,000.
Beyond salary and issuance caps, the bill seeks to ban H-1B holders from bringing dependents to the United States. It also targets the Optional Practical Training (OPT) program, which allows international students to work in the U.S. after graduation. These changes are part of a broader effort to modify how foreign skilled workers enter the American labor market, particularly within the technology sector.
| Proposed Change | New Provision |
|---|---|
| H-1B Visa Issuance | 3-year freeze |
| Minimum Salary | $200,000 per annum |
| Dependents | Prohibited |
| OPT Program | Subject to new restrictions |
Glossary
H-1B Visa: A non-immigrant visa that allows U.S. employers to employ foreign workers in specialty occupations.
OPT (Optional Practical Training): A program allowing international students in the U.S. to work in their field of study after graduation.