Urdu Report Desk
The administration of US President Donald Trump has announced the suspension of Microsoft, Adobe and several major IT companies from a program related to permanent residency for skilled foreign workers.
US Vice President JD Vance said at a press conference on Thursday that the administration wants American companies to employ more US workers. He said the government wants people to invest in the United States, particularly in the American technology sector.
Criticism of Microsoft
JD Vance specifically criticized Microsoft, saying the company is a great American business but should employ American workers rather than replacing US employees with foreign workers.
According to Vance, Microsoft laid off 6,000 US workers last year while obtaining 6,300 H-1B visas and nearly 3,000 green cards during the same period.
Green Card Program
The Permanent Labor Certification Program, administered by the US Department of Labor, allows companies to hire foreign workers seeking permanent residence in the United States. It is generally an important step toward obtaining an employer-sponsored green card.
The H-1B visa program is separate from the permanent labor certification process and allows highly skilled foreign workers in certain fields to temporarily live and work in the United States.
Other IT Companies Affected
In addition to Microsoft, Adobe and IT outsourcing companies Cognizant, Infosys, Tata Consultancy Services, Wipro, HCL Technologies and Capgemini have also been suspended from the Permanent Labor Certification Program.
According to US authorities, processing of new and pending permanent labor certification applications involving these companies has been halted.
Microsoft CEO to Receive Honor
Despite the development, President Donald Trump is scheduled to present Microsoft Chief Executive Officer Satya Nadella with the National Medal of Technology and Innovation at the White House.
