H-1B decisions must weigh the sponsor's layoffs

In effect since 18 Sept 2026Sources checked 28 Oct 2026

Executive Order 14431 of September 18, 2026 tells the State, Labor and Homeland Security departments to take into account whether an H-1B sponsor engaged in layoffs in the previous year or plans layoffs affecting similarly situated US workers.

Who it affects

H-1B workers and employers that have had or plan layoffs

What the official sources say

“whether the employer sponsor directly or indirectly engaged in layoffs within the previous year or plans future layoffs that negatively affect the employment of similarly situated United States workers.”

GovInfo: Executive Order 14431, Enhancing Program Integrity and Interagency Coordination in the Administration of the H-1B Nonimmigrant Visa Program govinfo.gov, checked 28 Oct 2026

“The Order directs the Secretary of State, the Secretary of Labor, and the Secretary of Homeland Security to consider petitioner employers’ recent or planned layoffs of similarly situated U.S. workers when considering H-1B visa applications.”

White House fact sheet, September 2026 whitehouse.gov, checked 28 Oct 2026

Quotes are copied from the official pages on the dates shown. This page is a summary, not legal advice: rules can change, so check the source before you act.

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