Microsoft Defends H-1B Visa Usage Amid Policy Changes

In a recent statement, Microsoft defended its use of H-1B visas, revealing that a significant majority of its applications were for existing employees rather than new hires. This clarification comes in response to the Trump administration's suspension of the company's ability to sponsor foreign workers through the Permanent Labour Certification program. Microsoft emphasized its commitment to the American workforce while addressing concerns about its hiring practices and wage standards. The company aims to provide further information to the administration as scrutiny of the H-1B program intensifies. Discover more about Microsoft's stance and the implications of these immigration policies.

By Narendra Chaudhary Oct 9, 2026, 11:25 IST

Microsoft's H-1B Visa Defense

Washington: Microsoft has come forward to clarify its reliance on H-1B visas, revealing that 80% of its nearly 6,000 applications in the last fiscal year were for current employees rather than new recruits. This clarification follows the Trump administration's suspension of the company's ability to sponsor foreign workers through a crucial employment-based green card program.

The tech giant emphasized that its H-1B applications were mainly aimed at extending or modifying the immigration status of its existing workforce.

This statement was issued after the administration's decision to suspend Microsoft from the Permanent Labour Certification program, known as PERM, which is a preliminary step for employers seeking permanent residency for foreign workers.

Microsoft stated, "We believe in the strength and talent of the American workforce. That is why the vast majority of Microsoft employees in the United States are Americans."

The company expressed its intention to provide further details about its hiring practices to the administration.

According to Microsoft, around 80% of the 6,000 H-1B applications submitted last year were not for new hires but rather to adjust the status of current employees.

The remaining applications were for individuals already legally residing in the U.S. who chose to join Microsoft, representing only 1% of its American workforce.

Microsoft clarified, "They are not new arrivals to our country."

Additionally, the company defended its compensation practices, countering claims that H-1B workers were being utilized to undermine American salaries.

"Microsoft only files H-1B petitions for those who meet the rigorous standards of this visa category," it stated, adding, "We pay our H-1B employees the same as any other employees doing comparable work."

The tech giant asserted that its success hinges on fostering a robust technology workforce by nurturing domestic talent and attracting skilled professionals globally.

This response comes amid heightened scrutiny of the H-1B program, which permits U.S. employers to hire foreign professionals in specialized fields.

The administration has called for stricter enforcement to prevent misuse of employment-based immigration programs and safeguard American workers.

Microsoft's statement did not specify the legal reasons for its suspension from the PERM program or how long the restrictions might last.

It also did not reveal how many employees' pending or future permanent residency applications could be impacted.

The suspension pertains to the employer's capacity to utilize the labor certification process but does not revoke existing H-1B visas or necessitate employees leaving the U.S.

PERM is overseen by the U.S. Department of Labor and is typically required for employers seeking specific employment-based immigrant visas for foreign workers.