President orders increased agency scrutiny of H-1B visa program

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Original Date Announced
September 18, 2026
The administration issued an executive order directing federal agencies to scrutinize H-1B employers that have laid off U.S. workers, creating uncertainty for companies seeking to hire highly-skilled foreign workers. The order requires the Departments of Labor, Homeland Security, and State to consider recent and planned layoffs affecting similarly situated U.S. workers when processing H-1B labor-condition applications, petitions, visas, and admissions, and directs Labor to review previously filed applications for potential enforcement action. The order also expands interagency coordination on H-1B cases and authorizes agencies to issue implementing rules and guidance, adding to recent H-1B restrictions.
Trump 2.0 [ID #2404]
EO 14431: Enhancing Program Integrity and Interagency Coordination in the H-1B Program
Effective Date
September 18, 2026

None

Status: Final/Actual

Trump Administration Action: Presidential Orders

Subject Matter: Non-Immigrant Visas: Employment-Based

Agencies Affected: DHS Bureau of Consular Affairs DOL

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