U.S. suspends Microsoft, Adobe and other major IT firms from PERM green card programme

The U.S. government has temporarily halted Microsoft, Adobe, and numerous major IT companies from participating in the PERM green card program, according to senior officials. The suspension follows allegations of fraud and an initiative to encourage companies to employ more Americans. A senior administration official stated, "Our message to Microsoft is: You’re a great American company, but you’ve got to hire great American workers."

The Department of Labour's Keith Sonderling further clarified, "We will not accept any new or process any pending permanent labour certification applications involving these companies."

The PERM program requires employers to prove that no qualified, willing, or available U.S. workers can fill a position before seeking permanent residency for foreign workers. In addition to the IT firms, nine universities, including prestigious institutions like Harvard, Yale, and Stanford, are under investigation for allegedly hiring international students to drive down American wages.

Labour Inspector General Anthony D’Esposito announced that subpoenas have been issued to investigate potential misuse of funds and visa abuse that compromise federally funded research. He emphasized that such actions are not in line with the goals of academic excellence and integrity.