Microsoft’s use of 6,300 H‑1B visas for green‑card sponsorship, juxtaposed with its domestic workforce reductions, triggered the Office of the Vice President to halt the company’s PERM filings.
Vance told reporters that the move was necessary because “companies must hire great American workers, not replace them with foreign indentured servants.” He added that the suspension would remain in effect while the Department of Labor reviews the company’s hiring practices.
The decision leaves almost 3,000 H‑1B workers in limbo; many have families in the U.S. and fear losing their chance at permanent residency.
An independent audit of Microsoft’s record will conclude by November 15, 2026, after which the Department of Labor will decide whether to lift the PERM suspension.