US Freezes Green Cards for Microsoft, IT firms: What to Know

US Freezes Green Card Processing for Major Tech Firms: The US government has suspended major technology companies from a key employment-based green card process. Microsoft, Adobe, Infosys and TCS are among the affected firms. The move could disrupt an important route to permanent residency for some foreign technology workers.

Microsoft Faces the Biggest Spotlight: Microsoft is at the centre of the announcement, with US officials questioning its use of employment-based immigration programmes and its workforce practices.

Indian IT Giants Are Affected: Tata Consultancy Services, Infosys, Wipro and HCL Technologies are among the Indian IT companies included in the suspension, alongside Cognizant and Capgemini.

Adobe Is Also on the List: Adobe has also been affected by the US action, which extends beyond Indian outsourcing companies to major technology employers operating in the American market.

What Is the PERM Program?: PERM is the permanent labour certification process used in many employer-sponsored green card applications. Employers generally must demonstrate that hiring a foreign worker will not adversely affect the wages and working conditions of US workers.

What Happens to Applications?: The US Labor Department said it would not accept new or process pending PERM applications involving the affected companies. This could interrupt an important stage in the permanent residency process for impacted employees.

H-1B Visas Are Not the Same: The suspension concerns PERM labour certification, not an automatic cancellation of every existing H-1B visa. Workers' individual circumstances differ, so employees should seek qualified immigration advice before making decisions about their status.

Why Indian Professionals Are Watching: The move matters to Indian technology professionals who rely on employer-sponsored immigration pathways in the US. The immediate effects will depend on each worker's application stage and other available immigration options.

The US Government's Rationale: US officials say the action is intended to protect American workers and address alleged misuse of employment-based immigration programs. Microsoft has said many of its H-1B filings involve extensions or status changes for existing employees.

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