White House bars Microsoft and others from using H-1B visas

The White House has barred Microsoft and several mainly Indian firms from hiring skilled international workers through the H-1B visa program, citing allegations of visa abuse and harm to US workers. The move follows accusations from Vice President JD Vance that Microsoft and others have misused the program to favor foreign hires. The restriction comes amid broader efforts to appeal to US workers ahead of upcoming elections.

• White House bars Microsoft from H-1B visa hiring
• Mostly Indian firms also targeted in the ban
• VP JD Vance alleges visa abuse by Microsoft
• Move framed as protecting US workers
• H-1B visas are capped at 85,000 annually