By - AVF Consultant
US Suspends Microsoft and Other Firms from Green Card Program: What Skilled Workers Should Do Next
Skilled professionals across the globe are watching a change, in THE US IMMIGRATION.
On October 08th, 2026 the Trump administration announced that it would stop Microsoft and other companies from participating in a job-based green card program. The administration claimed that these companies had taken advantage of the worker visa system.
If skilled workers are thinking about their career path the news raises a question: how safe is a plan that depends only on one country?
Meeting with an immigration consultant can help skilled workers understand the situation before skilled workers make a decision.
What Happened?
Vice President JD Vance and officials from the Labor Department said the suspension affects the Permanent Labor Certification (PERM) program. This program allows employers to sponsor workers for residency. In addition, to Microsoft the companies named include Adobe, Cognizant, Infosys, Tata, Wipro, HCL and Capgemini. Vance said the suspensions are indefinite and would last until the administration believes its concerns are addressed. Officials argued the program should be limited to -specialized roles that are hard to fill locally. Microsoft has said that most of its H-1B applications were to extend or change the status of existing employees and some former officials have criticised the announcement. The administration also opened investigations into J-1 visa use at nine universities.
Why This Is Important for Professionals Who Are Not Based in the United States
The H-1B program is very popular with workers from India and companies that provide IT services are some of the largest supporters. Many people who are applying now are asking if more companies might be affected, how long the pause will continue and what it means for people who're already in the process. Employers and applicants may become more careful. Some professionals might think about changing their career plans to countries that have clearer and more certain ways to get a visa. A lot of information is still being worked out so do not make any decisions based on information. Look at websites, from the US government and talk to a visa expert who is qualified to help with your specific situation.
Why Smart Applicants Keep Than One Option
Immigration policy can shift quickly in any country. That does not mean Smart Applicants should give up on their goals. That means Smart Applicants should build a plan. Many skilled workers now compare destinations. Australia and Canada are two of the popular. A migration consultant can assess your profile once. Show where Smart Applicants are strongest so Smart Applicants do not waste time on pathways that do not fit.
Working in Australia
Australia offers a few ways for skilled workers to get a job there. Some of these need an employer to sponsor you. Others depend on your job, your skills assessment and your work experience. A good Australia work visa consultant can help you with:
- Checking if your job is on the list that’s allowed now
- Helping you with the skills assessment process
- Explaining both the sponsored and independent visa options
- Making sure your documents are correct and match each other
Also Australia is making changes to its student visa rules starting from 10 October 2026. So getting updated advice is important even if you’re studying. Always check the Department of Home Affairs website to be sure, about the latest rules.
Working in Canada
Canada has work permits and many ways to get residency. Some require a job offer some do not and provincial programs are very important. Skilled Canada work visa consultants can help by:
- Finding the permit or program that fits your situation
- Giving advice, on language tests and evaluating your education
- Telling you how a work permit can lead to residency if you are eligible
- Putting together full applications
Look at the official IRCC website for the newest rules before you apply.
Australia vs Canada at a Glance
Here is an overview of Australia, versus Canada. Your eligibility depends on your profile.
| Factor | Australia | Canada |
| Key first step | Skills assessment for your occupation | Language test and education assessment |
| Job offer | Needed for some visas, not all | Needed for some permits, not all |
| Best suited to | In-demand occupations | Strong language and profile scores |
How a Work Permit Consultant Helps
A work permit consultant looks at your situation not just one form. Typical support from a work permit consultant includes profile assessment choosing the pathway checking documents filing the application and following up with the authorities. A reliable work permit consultant is honest about your chances writes out the fees. Never guarantees a visa.
Practical Steps to Take
- Pay attention to updates not what people say on social media. Rumours can mislead you.
- Check your profile carefully. Look at your education work experience, language test scores and savings. Make sure everything is clear and up, to date.
- Don’t pick a destination fast. Compare least two places before you decide. Each country has rules and chances.
- Keep all your documents fresh and matching. If your records don’t line up it can cause problems later.
- Before you spend any money book a consultation. Talk to someone who knows the process. It helps you make a choice.
- Ask the work permit consultant, for fees and services in writing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does this suspension affect all US work visas?
No. Reports say that only certain companies are paused from the PERM green card program. The limits might shift, Check with official sources to be sure.
Should I stop planning for the US?
No, you do not have to stop planning for the US. However, it is wise to keep options ready so if one policy changes your plans are still safe.
Can Australia or Canada replace a US plan?
Yes, Australia or Canada can be alternatives depending on your job and your background. Eligibility is decided on a case‑by‑case basis, which's why a profile check is needed first.
Can a consultant guarantee a visa?
No, a consultant cannot guarantee a visa. Only the immigration authorities decide. A consultant can make your application stronger and more accurate. Cannot promise the result.
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