On October 8, 2026, the administration announced that it was suspending Microsoft, Adobe, and other employers from PERM, the labor certification step in many employment-based green card cases. ABC News reports that Vice President Vance said the suspension will last as long as needed. TechCrunch adds that Capgemini, Cognizant, HCL, Infosys, Tata, and Wipro were also named, and that the Labor Secretary said the Labor Department will stop accepting new labor certification applications from these companies and halt work on pending ones. We have not found an official Department of Labor notice. The legal basis and the treatment of pending cases are unconfirmed. Microsoft has said most of its U.S. employees are Americans and that about 80% of its H-1B filings last year were for people already working there.
Workers at the named companies should talk to their own attorney about their cases. For skilled workers who are also looking at Canada, here is what IRCC says.
Express Entry
Express Entry is Canada’s main system for skilled workers who want permanent residence. IRCC invites candidates in draws for specific categories, including healthcare and social services, STEM, trades, education, transport, and French-language proficiency. Most of these require at least 12 months of full-time skilled work, or an equal amount of part-time work, within the past three years, in one listed occupation. The physician, researcher, and senior manager categories require that experience to be Canadian. The current list is on IRCC’s category-based selection page.
The Planned H-1B Pathway
IRCC’s 2026 Express Entry consultation, which ran from August 4 to September 1, refers to a Budget 2025 commitment to an accelerated pathway for H-1B holders. We did not find program details in the official sources we reviewed, so no one should plan around it until IRCC publishes them. The same page says IRCC is considering changes to the categories for 2027.
Competition and Limits
Invitations fall within a fixed target. IRCC’s levels plan sets 380,000 new permanent residents each year, with 239,800 in the economic class in 2026. Scores and categories can change from one draw or year to the next, so approval is never certain.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the PERM suspension apply to every employer?
The reports we reviewed name only the companies listed above. Workers elsewhere should keep following their employer’s guidance as official details emerge.
Is there a Canadian pathway for H-1B holders right now?
IRCC has referred to a planned accelerated pathway, but the details are not published. Current options include Express Entry, provincial nominee programs, and employer-supported work permits.
Do I need Canadian work experience for Express Entry?
Not for every category. Most require 12 months of skilled work in Canada or abroad, but the physician, researcher, and senior manager categories require Canadian experience.
Should I leave my U.S. job to move to Canada?
Not without advice. A move can affect your status, your family, and your future options in both countries, so have an attorney review your plan first.
If you or your family members have questions about how this or other immigration and nationality matters may affect you, please do not hesitate to contact the immigration and nationality lawyers at NPZ Law Group. You can reach us by emailing info@visaserve.com or by visiting our website at www.visaserve.com for more information.