Microsoft Challenges Green Card Suspension Over H-1B Visa Practices

Microsoft maintains that the vast majority of its visa activity is focused on retaining current staff rather than bringing in new foreign arrivals. Data released by the company shows that 80 percent of its 6,000 H-1B applications last fiscal year were filed to extend or modify the status of existing employees already residing in the United States. The remaining filings, according to the company, represent only one percent of its total American workforce.

Beyond the numbers, the firm emphasized that its compensation packages for visa holders match those of domestic employees performing comparable roles. By meeting the rigorous standards required for H-1B status, Microsoft asserts its reliance on both local talent pipelines and global recruitment. The suspension specifically targets the PERM program, a critical gateway for foreign nationals seeking permanent residency. Microsoft officials expressed readiness to provide the administration with further documentation to clarify their recruitment practices.