A new bill introduced in the U.S. Congress by Republican Congressman Chip Roy aims to significantly overhaul the H-1B visa program, a move that could drastically alter immigration pathways for skilled foreign workers, particularly those from India. Titled the "American White-Collar Worker Jobs Act of 2026," the legislation seeks to eliminate the H-1B visa's long-standing role as a route to permanent residency, commonly known as a Green Card.

The proposed bill introduces several sweeping changes to the existing H-1B system. Notably, it aims to scrap the 'dual intent' policy, which currently allows H-1B visa holders to pursue permanent residency while working in the United States. This means applicants would need to demonstrate an intention to return to their home country.

Furthermore, the legislation proposes to shorten the maximum duration of an H-1B visa from six years to two years, with no extension provisions available while awaiting Green Card processing. The bill also seeks to replace the current lottery system for H-1B visas with a wage-based selection process, prioritizing higher-earning applicants. Employers would also face stricter requirements, including proving that no qualified U.S. worker is available for a position and offering wages at or above the 75th percentile for the occupation.

In addition to these changes, the bill calls for the elimination of the Optional Practical Training (OPT) program, which allows international students to work in the U.S. for a limited period after graduation. This move is intended to prioritize job opportunities for American professionals, especially in STEM fields.

Congressman Roy stated that the H-1B visa has been "abused" for decades, allowing companies to sideline American workers in favor of cheaper foreign labor and mask layoffs and wage suppression. He emphasized that the bill aims to restore the program's integrity and prioritize American white-collar workers.

The proposed legislation builds upon previous reform efforts, including Congressman Eli Crane's "End H-1B Visa Abuse Act of 2026," which called for a temporary suspension of H-1B issuances followed by reforms.

If enacted, the bill is expected to have a significant impact on Indian nationals, who constitute approximately 70% of H-1B visa holders in the U.S. It could affect both individual migrants seeking to build careers in the U.S. and Indian IT firms that rely heavily on the H-1B system.

The bill's introduction aligns with a broader trend of tighter regulations on legal immigration programs, reminiscent of policies during the Trump administration.