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- calendar_today October 8, 2026
Microsoft Barred from Green Card Program Amid Fraud Accusations
The Trump administration has suspended technology giant Microsoft from a federal program that allows it to apply for green cards on behalf of workers who come to the United States on H-1B visas. The decision follows allegations of fraud against the company, according to officials at a White House news conference.
White House Conference Outlines Visa Concerns
During the announcement, Vice President JD Vance claimed that Microsoft's hiring practices have replaced American workers with what he described as "one and a half foreign indentured servants" for every worker laid off by the company. The accusation speaks to ongoing concerns among supporters of former President Donald Trump, who have criticized the h1b visa program for allegedly undercutting domestic workers and facilitating visa abuse.
H-1B Visa Program Targeted by Administration
The H-1B program is designed for high-skilled roles that are challenging to fill with American candidates. Technology companies, including Microsoft, rely extensively on the h1b visa program; nearly 75% of such approvals are granted to individuals from India. The administration's action represents a significant step in its ongoing scrutiny of work visa programs used by major tech companies.
Microsoft's Response Pending
Microsoft, based in Redmond, Washington, has not issued a public comment regarding the allegations or the suspension from the green card program. The decision comes as part of a broader campaign by the Trump administration to increase oversight of employment-based immigration and address perceived visa abuse.
New Immigration Policy Proposals Affecting International Students
The announcement against Microsoft came only a day after another related development. The Department of Homeland Security recently proposed a $70,000 fee for international students seeking to work in the United States through the Optional Practical Training (OPT) program. Under the proposal, educational institutions would be responsible for paying the fee for each student participating in OPT, a program that allows international students to work in jobs aligned with their field of study during or after completing their education.
Concerns Over J-1 Visa Program and University Practices
Vice President Vance also called attention to alleged abuses within the J-1 visa program, which allows international visitors to temporarily come to the U.S. for work and study exchange opportunities. He identified nine universities that are being investigated for possible j1 visa program fraud, asserting that these institutions used the program in greater proportions compared to their counterparts.
Technology Sector and Visa Crackdown
In response to increasing visa scrutiny, major tech companies have reportedly warned employees about international travel as visa delays mount. The administration's measures have placed emphasis on overseeing and potentially limiting the roles foreign workers play within the U.S. technology sector, intensifying the ongoing debate regarding work visa policies and corporate hiring practices.
