American Dream in Danger: New H-1B Visa Crackdown Could Hit Thousands of Indians Hard

A group of Republican lawmakers has introduced legislation to pause the issuance of H-1B visas for three years and overhaul the programme.

The lawmakers argue that the current system has disadvantaged American workers, as reported by the IANS news agency.

For decades, the pathway to the United States for Indian students and professionals followed a familiar arc.

It began with an F-1 visa for education, followed by a period of work through the temporary Optional Practical Training (OPT) programme. Professionals would then transition to the H-1B visa and, for many, begin a long wait toward permanent residency.

Today, Indians form the largest share of both student visa holders and H-1B recipients. However, a new Bill introduced on Wednesday by Congressman Eli Crane threatens to disrupt each step of that journey.

The proposed "End H-1B Visa Abuse Act of 2026" seeks to reset the visa system before resuming it with stricter rules.

What Does the New H-1B Visa Bill Propose for Caps, Salaries, and OPT?

The proposal calls for a three year pause on new H-1B visas and a sharp reduction in annual caps to 25,000. It also suggests a $200,000 salary threshold, an end to OPT, and a ban on transitioning to green cards.

"The bill would provide greater access to employment, strengthen protocols in the visa process, and prioritise the livelihoods of Americans,” he added.

Many immigration Bills in the past have focused on one or two elements such as caps, wages, or employer conditions.

This proposal distinguishes itself by attempting to reshape the entire system at once.

Crane’s Bill is distinct in its hybrid approach. Unlike proposals that seek immediate elimination, this Bill introduces a temporary pause followed by a redesigned system.

It goes further than most others by simultaneously targeting OPT, green cards, and dependents.

Which Lawmakers Are Backing the H-1B Visa Reform Bill Led by Eli Crane?

The legislation has drawn support from several Republican lawmakers, including Brandon Gill, Paul Gosar, and Andy Ogles.

"I am proud to cosponsor Rep. Eli Crane's efforts to reform and tighten our H-1B visa system, ensuring that our immigration system serves American workers first before foreigners," Gill said.

The bill proposes significant structural changes. It would cut the annual H-1B cap from 65,000 to 25,000 and eliminate exemptions. Furthermore, it would replace the current lottery system with a wage-based selection process and set a minimum salary of $200,000 per year.

Rahul Reddy, a Houston based immigration attorney, told The Indian Express that such proposals are often introduced in the House of Representatives "to appease their particular constituency," rather than because legislators expect them to pass.