New US bill seeks to shut H-1B door for three years

A new bill introduced in the US Congress aims to suspend the issuance of new H-1B visas for three years. The legislation targets the popular visa program used by many Indian professionals to work in the United States.

The bill, if passed, would bar the approval of new H-1B petitions during the three-year suspension period. It would not affect existing H-1B holders or their dependents.

Sponsors of the bill argue that the temporary halt is needed to protect American workers and reform the visa system. Critics say the move would harm US businesses and the economy by cutting off access to skilled foreign talent.

The legislation faces an uncertain path in Congress, where immigration reform has been a contentious issue. The Indian diaspora, a major beneficiary of the H-1B program, is closely watching the bill's progress.