US Suspends Green Card Sponsorship Process for Eight Major IT Companies: What Indian Professionals Need to Know
Published: 9 October 2026
The United States has announced a major immigration development that could affect skilled foreign professionals working for some of the world’s largest technology companies. On 8 October 2026, the US administration announced the suspension of the Permanent Labour Certification (PERM) process for eight major technology and IT services companies.
The decision affects a key stage in the employment-based Green Card process, which many foreign professionals use to pursue permanent residency in the United States.
The companies named in the announcement include major Indian IT employers, making the development particularly relevant to Indian professionals working in the US or planning an international career.
Which Eight Companies Have Been Affected?
The following companies have been named in the suspension:
- Microsoft
- Adobe
- Cognizant
- Infosys
- Tata Consultancy Services (TCS)
- Wipro
- HCL Technologies
- Capgemini
According to reports, the US Department of Labor will not accept new PERM applications involving these companies or process their pending applications while the suspension remains in effect.
What Is PERM and Why Does It Matter?
PERM stands for Permanent Labour Certification. For many employer-sponsored employment-based Green Card cases, it is an important step before an employer can file the relevant immigrant petition.
The process generally requires an employer to demonstrate that there are no qualified, willing and available US workers for the particular position under the applicable recruitment requirements.
A suspension at this stage can delay or disrupt the permanent residency plans of affected employees, particularly those who expected their employer to initiate or continue the Green Card process.
Why Has the US Taken This Step?
US officials have alleged that the targeted companies misused immigration programmes and that their hiring practices adversely affected American workers. The administration has said the action is intended to protect domestic employment and address suspected abuse.
These are allegations made by US officials; the announcement should not be interpreted as a final finding of wrongdoing against every company or employee affected.
Does This Mean All Green Card Applications Are Banned?
No. The announcement specifically concerns the PERM process involving the eight named companies.
It does not establish a blanket ban on all employment-based Green Cards, nor does the suspension itself automatically cancel existing H-1B visas or Green Cards.
The impact on an individual depends on the employer, the stage of the immigration case and the applicable rules. Affected employees should obtain case-specific advice before making decisions about their employment or immigration status.
What Does This Mean for Indian IT Professionals?
For Indian professionals, this development highlights the importance of distinguishing between a job opportunity, a temporary work visa and a pathway to permanent residency.
An employer-sponsored Green Card may offer a route to long-term settlement, but the process can depend on employer participation, labour certification, immigration rules and processing timelines. A disruption at any stage can affect an employee’s plans.
Professionals considering an overseas move should therefore evaluate more than salary, job title or the possibility of employer sponsorship. They should also understand the immigration pathway available to them, its limitations and the alternatives they may be eligible to explore.
Should Skilled Professionals Consider Other Countries?
International mobility does not have to depend on a single destination. Depending on an individual’s qualifications, occupation, experience, language proficiency and personal circumstances, other countries may offer skilled migration or employment-based residence pathways.
For example, Canada’s Express Entry system and provincial nomination programmes provide routes to permanent residence for eligible candidates. Australia’s skilled migration programmes, including the 189, 190 and 491 visa pathways, may also be worth assessing for suitable profiles.
However, eligibility, invitation requirements and processing times differ between countries. No alternative pathway guarantees permanent residence, and a professional should assess the relevant criteria before making a decision.
How Hodophiles Xplore Visas Pvt. Ltd. Can Help
At Hodophiles Xplore Visas Pvt. Ltd., we encourage skilled professionals to make international career decisions based on a clear understanding of immigration eligibility and long-term settlement options.
If you are an IT professional or skilled worker reviewing your future plans, a profile assessment can help you understand whether you may qualify for Canadian permanent residence, Australian skilled migration or another suitable pathway.
The right strategy begins with your individual profile, not assumptions about which country is easiest to enter or settle in.
Planning your next international move? Connect with Hodophiles Xplore Visas Pvt. Ltd. to discuss your profile and explore the immigration pathways that may be available to you.
